Herb Crusted Salmon

Name: Herb Crusted Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 - 6 ounces salmon filets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper

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Herb Crusted Salmon is one of my favorite salmon recipes. It's crispy, fresh, and requires minimal effort. This salmon pairs well with several side dishes. It's the perfect protein to whip up on a busy weeknight or when you don't feel like spending time in the kitchen.

Baked salmon with a crispy herb crust, garnished with parsley and lemon slices on a plate.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Variations
How to Make Herb Crusted Salmon
Recipe Tips
Storage Directions
Serving Suggestions
Recipe FAQs
More Delicious Salmon Dishes
Herb Crusted Salmon

The coating contains crispy breadcrumbs and parmesan. I love using parmesan because it not only adds texture but it provides a sharp and nutty flavor. It has plenty of seasoning and herbs that only enhance the natural flavor of the salmon.

If you like easy-crusted fish recipes, you will love this baked Walleye and this parmesan crusted Cod.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

It has great texture: The center of the salmon is moist and flaky, while the herb crust is crunchy and golden brown.
It's customizable: Switching up the herbs and spices on this herbed salmon is super easy. Don't be afraid to get creative with it!
It's quick and easy: If you want a tasty, simple, and fast way to make salmon, this is a must-try!

Ingredients

You only need 4 ingredients plus spices to create this garlic and herb salmon recipe. They're common items that you can find at your local grocery store.

Salmon: I like to leave the skin on the filets but you may remove it. Cook the salmon skin side down and add the crust to the flesh.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs are great for this because they have an herbaceous flavor. Try this recipe with panko for more crunch!
Parmesan cheese: This helps the crust to achieve a deeper golden color while also providing a sharp and nutty flavor to the fish.
Herbs and spices: I use garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. These simple seasonings add plenty of flavor to the breading, while the parsley adds color and freshness. There are several fresh herbs for salmon you could use that add a pop of green!

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.

Variations

Gluten-free: Try this herb-crusted baked salmon with gluten-free breadcrumbs so anyone can enjoy it.
Pistachio: Crushed pistachios are salty and crispy. Incorporate them into the breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch.
Asian-style: Add grated ginger and sesame seeds to the breadcrumbs. I even brush the fish with a little soy sauce before adding the crust.

How to Make Herb Crusted Salmon

Below are the steps needed to prepare and bake this herb crusted salmon recipe. To get started, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with foil. I recommend spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the salmon will be removed easily.

A bowl containing breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, and dried herbs.

Step 1: Prepare the breading. Add the oil, breadcrumbs, cheese, spices, and parsley to a mixing bowl. Stir until all of the ingredients are well coated in oil and a little crumbly.

Breaded salmon fillets with herbs on a white plate.

Step 2: Add mixture to the fish. Press ¼ of the mixture onto the top of each piece. Ensure it's well packed so it doesn't fall off.

Three baked salmon fillets topped with a golden breadcrumb and herb crust on a template-lined baking tray.

Step 3: Arrange the salmon. Lay the coated pieces of salmon gently onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space in between them to ensure there's enough heat and airflow.

Close-up of baked salmon fillets topped with a golden brown herb crust, served on a template baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake. Put the pan in the oven and bake it for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked. Enjoy hot and crispy!

Recipe Tips

Let the salmon rest: Give the salmon about 10 minutes to rest after you take it out of the oven. This will allow the juices to redistribute so that when you cut into it, it will be juicy and tender.
Pat the fish dry: Lightly pat the salmon filets dry before you add the breadcrumb mixture. This will help it stick better and not slide off.
Broil to make it crispier: Kick the oven up to broil during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time if you want the crust to be a little darker. Keep an eye on it, though!

If you love recipes like this flavorful crusted salmon, you may also enjoy my almond crusted salmon and this salmon Wellington. My baked salmon with mayo is also really good.

Storage Directions

Storing: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheating: These herb-crusted filets of salmon are best reheated in the oven to preserve the crispy breading. The microwave will also dry out the salmon.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the breading mixture a couple of hours ahead but the salmon needs minimal prep!

Serving Suggestions

Some of my favorite side dishes to serve with this salmon are this balsamic roasted carrots and sauteed greens with bacon. They're very different but offer plenty of flavor and texture to complement the fish.
Try these cheesy broccoli bites or smashed red potatoes to serve with this recipe, too.
Muddy buddy pretzels make the perfect easy sweet treat to enjoy for dessert!

Two breaded salmon fillets garnished with parsley and lemon slices on a white plate.

Check out my crispy salmon bites if recipes like this speak to your heart (and stomach).

Recipe FAQs

Why is the crust soggy?

If you add too much olive oil, that can make the mixture soggy. This can also happen if you don't cook it long enough and let it crisp up.

Why is the salmon dry?

When salmon is overcooked, it becomes dry quickly. It will still be pink and flake with a fork when it's ready. It can overcook within a couple of minutes, so watch it closely.

Can I make it in the air fryer?

Sure! The breaded and baked salmon filets can be cooked in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for 12-14 minutes or until the flesh is flaky and the crust is golden brown.

Herb crusted salmon on a plate garnished with lemon slices.

More Delicious Salmon Dishes

Do you like making salmon recipes for dinner? Here are some recipes you may also want to try.

If you try this recipe and love it please leave a star rating in the recipe card below or even better, drop a review in the comment section. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to follow along with me on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube for more easy recipes!