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Parmesan crusted salmon fillet cooked in air fryer, served with roasted veggies on white plate

Epic Parmesan Crusted Salmon Air Fryer – Golden, Juicy & Done in 15 Min

Ifra Shahnawaz
This golden-crusted parmesan salmon is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — and ready in just 15 minutes in your air fryer. A healthy, protein-packed dish perfect for quick dinners or entertaining guests!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2 fillets
Calories 330 kcal

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Parchment paper or oil spray
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb salmon fillets 2 pieces
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter softened
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs or Panko for extra crispiness
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • Optional Add-Ons:
  • Red pepper flakes for spice
  • Lemon zest for freshness
  • Fresh herbs like dill basil, or parsley (for aroma)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes before cooking.
  • Prepare the Salmon: Gently pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel, then season with black pepper.
    Raw salmon fillets patted dry with paper towel and seasoned with black pepper
  • Make the Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, mix together: Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, softened butter, paprika, pepper, and any optional add-ons. Mix until it forms a crumbly mixture.
    Bowl of mixed Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, butter, and spices forming a crumbly coating
  • Coat the Salmon: Spread the mixture evenly over each fillet, pressing gently to make it stick.
    Salmon fillets topped with Parmesan crust mixture, ready to be air fried
  • Cook the Salmon: Spray air fryer basket with oil or place parchment paper. Add salmon skin-side down. Air fry for 7–12 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).
    Crusted salmon fillets placed skin-side down in air fryer basket before cooking
  • Rest & Serve: Allow the salmon to rest for 2–3 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
    parmesan crusted salmon air fryer

Notes

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use fillets of similar size to ensure even cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the basket.
  • Cover loosely with foil if crust starts browning too fast.
  • Don’t overcook — use a thermometer to check doneness!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
  • Serve with roasted asparagus, wild rice, or mashed cauliflower
  • Drizzle fresh lemon juice on top for added brightness
  •   Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or herb-infused sparkling water for a refreshing touch.
❄️ Storage & Reheating
  •  Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or a sealed container for up to 1 month
Reheat: In the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes or until warm
Keyword parmesan crusted salmon air fryer