If you’re searching for a simple yet scrumptious dinner idea that the whole family will love, look no further than this air fryer parmesan-crusted salmon. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, taking just 10 minutes to prepare and cook. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning, this dish will quickly become one of your go-to meals. It’s perfect for anyone who craves a crispy, flavorful salmon fillet with minimal effort. With just four ingredients, this Parmesan Crusted Salmon is packed with flavor, and the air fryer does the magic in no time at all.

Salmon, with its tender and flaky texture, provides a perfect base for the crunchy and savory topping of parmesan cheese, creamy mayo, and a hint of herb and garlic seasoning. This quick and easy recipe has everything you need for a balanced meal: healthy fats, lean protein, and a boost of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s a wonderful choice for meal prep, as you can easily divide it into individual portions, store, and reheat it for later.

Why You’ll Love Parmesan-Crusted Salmon

Air fryer recipes have taken the kitchen world by storm for good reason. Not only do they cook food quickly, but they also deliver crispy textures without the need for excessive oil or frying. When it comes to making salmon, the air fryer ensures a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The addition of parmesan cheese creates a crispy, cheesy crust that’s packed with flavor, while the mayo adds moisture and richness to the fish. The herb and garlic seasoning provide an aromatic backdrop that enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to serve it for a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or enjoy it as a quick and healthy weeknight dish, it works perfectly for any occasion. Plus, it pairs well with virtually any side dish, from roasted vegetables to a fresh salad, making it a great option for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients for Parmesan-Crusted Salmon in the Air Fryer

For this simple and flavorful recipe, you’ll only need four ingredients, all of which come together to create a beautifully crispy crust on the salmon. Here’s what you need:

4 salmon fillets (4oz each): Fresh, skinless fillets work best for this recipe. If you have skin-on fillets, they can still be used, but the skin will be removed after cooking.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: The mayo acts as a binder and adds creaminess, helping the parmesan and seasonings stick to the fish.
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese: This brings the signature crispy texture and a nutty flavor to the top of the salmon.
1 teaspoon herb and garlic seasoning: A simple blend of dried herbs and garlic adds depth to the flavor without being overpowering.

How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Salmon

Making this air fryer parmesan-crusted salmon is incredibly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare it:

Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the mayo and seasoning adhere better to the fish.
Coat with Mayo and Seasoning: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the top of each salmon fillet. This will help the parmesan cheese and seasoning stick. Once the fillets are coated with mayo, sprinkle the herb and garlic seasoning evenly over them.
Top with Parmesan: Generously sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese on top of the seasoned salmon fillets. The cheese will melt and form a crispy, golden crust during the cooking process.
Cook in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Carefully place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook for 8 minutes, or until the salmon is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The fish should flake easily with a fork.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute or two. The skin, if left on, can be easily removed at this point. Serve your parmesan-crusted salmon with your favorite sides and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan-Crusted Salmon

For Extra Crispy Salmon: If you prefer a super crispy crust, you can spray the top of the salmon with a little cooking spray before air frying. This will help the cheese become even more golden and crunchy.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to add more seasoning to taste. You can incorporate extra garlic powder, lemon zest, or even a little paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Simply cook the salmon as directed, then divide it into individual containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salmon can be reheated in the air fryer or microwave. Just be mindful that reheating too much can cause the fish to dry out, so be sure to monitor the temperature carefully.

Parmesan-crusted salmon is not only easy to make but also a nutritious option for those looking to eat healthier without compromising on flavor. This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Salmon

This air fryer parmesan-crusted salmon is a quick and delicious dinner option that takes just 10 minutes to prepare and cook. With only four ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this simple recipe delivers crispy, flavorful salmon with minimal effort. The air fryer ensures a perfectly cooked fillet in no time, making it a go-to meal for anyone craving a tasty, hassle-free dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (4oz each)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon herb and garlic seasoning

Instructions:

Brush the tops of the salmon fillets with mayonnaise.
Sprinkle with herb and garlic seasoning.
Top with shredded parmesan cheese.
Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket at 380°F (190°C) and cook for 8 minutes.
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Notes:

Salmon skin will easily come off after cooking.
This recipe can be scaled for more or fewer servings.
For meal prep, cook the salmon, then store in individual containers for easy reheating.
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition (per serving):

Calories: 367 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 260mg
Potassium: 849mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 143 IU
Calcium: 109mg
Iron: 2mg