Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a meal that’s both indulgently flavorful and satisfyingly wholesome, you’ve got to try this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce. This dish brings together a crispy, golden parmesan crust that’s bursting with garlicky goodness, perfectly complementing the tender, flaky salmon beneath. And the creamy dill sauce on the side? It adds a refreshing, tangy finish that elevates each bite to something truly special. Whether for a weeknight dinner or impressing loved ones, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing its part to create that perfect balance of texture and flavor that makes Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce such a standout dish.

• 1 kg wild caught salmon fillet boneless, skin off: Fresh and high-quality salmon is the foundation of this recipe, ensuring tender, flavorful fish.
• 85 g salted butter melted: Butter adds richness and helps to bind the garlicky parmesan crust together.
• 4 garlic cloves finely chopped: Garlic brings pungent warmth and depth to the crust and sauce.
• 65 g parmesan cheese grated: Hand-grated parmesan melts into a crispy, savory topping that’s simply irresistible.
• 75 g panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give the crust a light, crunchy texture that regular breadcrumbs can’t quite match.
• 50 g parsley finely chopped: Fresh parsley brightens the crust and ties together its flavors.
• Pinch of salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon and toppings.
• 85 g sour cream, mayonnaise, or Greek yogurt: The base for the creamy dill sauce, each option gives a slightly different tang and texture.
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds subtle sharpness and complexity to the sauce.
• 1 garlic clove minced: Infuses the sauce with just the right amount of garlic punch.
• 3 tbsp dill freshly chopped: The star herb that lends the sauce its classic fresh, herbal note.
• 1 lemon zested and juiced: Lemon zest and juice brighten and balance the richness of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp salt: To season the sauce perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional): A little sweetness to round out the sauce’s flavors if desired.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Salmon

Begin by preheating your fan-forced oven to 175C (or 185C without the fan). Line a large baking tray with baking paper to make cleanup a breeze. Rinse your salmon gently under cold water, then pat dry carefully with paper towels. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper for a simple but effective flavor boost. If you have individual fillets, arrange them close together on the tray to ensure even cooking, then pop the tray into the fridge to keep the fish cool while you prep the crust.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Infuse Garlic

Place the butter and finely chopped garlic in a small saucepan over low heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and then let it bubble gently for a few minutes so the garlic infuses the butter deeply without burning. This step is key as the garlic butter will coat the breadcrumbs and parmesan, infusing the whole crust with rich garlicky flavor.

Step 3: Create the Parmesan Crust Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the warm garlic butter over the dry ingredients and stir with a spoon until every crumb is well coated and clammy. This mixture will turn into a beautifully crisp and flavorful topping once baked.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Salmon

Spread the breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing lightly to help it stick. For an extra golden finish, spritz or brush a little oil over the crust. Slide the tray onto the centre rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. While the salmon bakes, let’s get started on that dreamy creamy dill sauce—trust me, it’s the perfect companion.

Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Dill Sauce

Simply combine the sour cream (or your chosen base), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and sugar (if using) in a bowl. Mix everything until smooth and harmonious. This sauce is fresh and tangy with just the right balance to lift the richness of the salmon without overpowering it.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Garnishes

Freshness and color add a finishing touch to your Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce. Consider sprinkling additional chopped parsley or dill over the top just before serving, and maybe a few thin lemon wedges on the side for extra zing that guests can add to taste. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper will also brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a fresh and vibrant feel, try a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted asparagus or green beans also complement the richness of the salmon perfectly. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy quinoa can round out the meal, absorbing the delicious dill sauce for a satisfying bite every time.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve the salmon on a wooden board with dollops of the creamy dill sauce placed artistically beside the fillets for dipping. You can also layer the salmon atop warm, garlicky sautéed spinach or nestle it over a bed of wild rice mixed with toasted almonds and herbs for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s visually stunning and utterly delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce, store the salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the dill sauce separate to maintain its freshness. This makes for an easy, flavorful next-day meal or a tasty lunch option.

Freezing

While freezing the fully cooked salmon is possible, it’s recommended to freeze it only if necessary, as the crust might lose some crispness upon thawing. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month. The creamy dill sauce does not freeze well and is best made fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat leftover salmon gently in a low-temperature oven (around 150C) for about 10-15 minutes to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep the crust crispy. Add the creamy dill sauce fresh on top or on the side just before serving to retain that vibrant, luscious flavor.

FAQs

Can I use salmon with the skin on for this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce?

Yes, you absolutely can. The skin won’t crisp up like pan-fried salmon skin but it will still provide flavor and helps keep the fish moist. Just be sure to remove any pin bones before cooking.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs? Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead?

Regular breadcrumbs will work fine, though panko is preferred for its light, airy crunch. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, consider adding a little extra parmesan to help keep the crust crispy.

Is it possible to make the creamy dill sauce dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream or yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. The flavors will slightly differ, but you’ll still get a lovely creamy dill sauce that complements the salmon wonderfully.

Can I prepare the garlic parmesan crust ahead of time?

You can mix the crust ingredients in advance and keep them covered in the fridge, but for the best texture, spread it on the salmon just before baking. This prevents the crumbs from getting soggy.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 62C (145F) and flake easily with a fork but remain moist and tender. The crust should be golden and crisp. Avoid overcooking, which can dry out the fish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a dish that feels handcrafted, comforting, and downright delicious, the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce is an absolute must-try. Its combination of crunchy, cheesy crust topped on juicy salmon paired with that lush, herbaceous sauce is truly a flavor celebration. Don’t hesitate to make this your go-to recipe for any occasion—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly it wins hearts and appetites alike.