Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Salmon with Mayo and Cheese is a quick and easy dish that’s bursting with flavor. The creamy mayo and Parmesan topping helps lock in the moisture of the salmon, keeping it tender while the top becomes golden and slightly crispy. The added lemon zest gives a fresh, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the mayo, making it a satisfying yet light meal. In just 13 minutes, you can have a flavorful and healthy dinner ready to serve!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 skin-on salmon fillets
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing the baking pan)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and lightly grease a baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Make the mayo mixture: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, lemon zest, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the dish: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking pan. Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mayonnaise-coated salmon.
- Bake: Bake the salmon for 8 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 8 minutes
- Total time: 13 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use skinless salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use skinless fillets if you prefer, though the skin helps retain moisture and adds texture. If using skinless salmon, the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for doneness after 6-7 minutes of baking.
2. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Asiago, Gruyère, or mozzarella. These cheeses will melt differently, so the texture and flavor may vary, but they’ll still be delicious.
3. Can I use a non-dairy mayo for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative if you’re vegan or dairy-sensitive. There are several excellent dairy-free mayo options that will work well in this recipe.
4. Can I add herbs or spices to the mayo mixture?
Absolutely! You can add fresh or dried herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley to the mayo mixture for additional flavor. A dash of garlic powder or paprika can also enhance the taste.
5. How do I know when the salmon is done baking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If you prefer a slightly rare center, aim for a temperature of around 125°F (52°C).
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served immediately, you can prepare the salmon and mayo mixture in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just assemble and cook.
7. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Be sure to fully thaw the salmon before baking for the best results.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mayo mixture or sprinkle some chili powder on top of the salmon before baking.
9. Can I serve this dish with a side?
Yes! This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, quinoa, or steamed rice.
10. Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?
Lemon zest gives a more intense lemon flavor and adds freshness, but if you don’t have any, you can use a small amount of lemon juice. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the texture of the mayo.
Conclusion
Baked Salmon with Mayo and Cheese is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy mayo, rich Parmesan cheese, and zesty lemon creates a mouthwatering topping that enhances the natural flavor of the salmon. In just 13 minutes, you can have a delicious and healthy meal ready to serve. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!
Baked Salmon with Mayo and Cheese: A Quick and Flavorful Dish
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Baked Salmon with Mayo and Cheese is a simple, flavorful dish featuring a creamy mayo and Parmesan topping, baked to golden perfection. With the added zing of lemon zest, this recipe is a quick, delicious meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 skin-on salmon fillets
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon zest
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing the baking pan)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and lightly grease a baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Make the mayo mixture: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, lemon zest, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the dish: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking pan. Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mayonnaise-coated salmon.
- Bake: Bake the salmon for 8 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Asiago, Gruyère, or mozzarella, but the texture may vary.
For a non-dairy version, swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative.
Feel free to add fresh or dried herbs like dill, thyme, or garlic powder to the mayo mixture.
If using frozen salmon, make sure to fully thaw it before baking for best results.
For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mayo mixture.
This dish pairs perfectly with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
If you don’t have lemon zest, you can substitute with a small amount of lemon juice, but use it sparingly to avoid affecting the mayo’s texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
