It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a meal that feels special but takes minimal effort. This Boursin Baked Salmon is the answer to your busy weeknight prayers.
This dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. It is fresh, creamy, and has the perfect golden crunch. You will love how simple and delicious this turns out every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for any home cook. It uses just a few simple ingredients to create a gourmet flavor profile. The creamy cheese keeps the salmon incredibly moist and tender.
It is perfect for a quick spring dinner or a cozy date night. You only need one baking sheet, so cleanup is a breeze. Your whole family will be asking for seconds of this flaky fish.
Simple Method
Making this dish is as easy as spread, top, and bake. Even if you are new to cooking fish, you can master this recipe. The Boursin cheese acts as a built-in sauce that seasons everything perfectly.
You just need to prep the topping while your oven heats up. In less than 15 minutes of baking, your golden-brown dinner is ready. It is a foolproof way to enjoy healthy seafood any night.
Simple Ingredients
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry. Using fresh lemon zest really makes the flavors pop.
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 5.2 ounces Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season the tops with salt and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet skin-side down.
- Spread approximately 1.25 ounces of Boursin cheese in an even layer over the top of each fillet.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and lemon zest until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the cheese layer on each fillet.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the panko topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm salmon alongside some roasted asparagus or green beans. A light fluff of jasmine rice or quinoa balances the meal beautifully. It is a fantastic choice for a healthy reset dinner.
For a date night, pair it with a crisp white wine. Set the table and enjoy a fancy meal at home. It feels elegant without any of the stress of a professional kitchen.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to two days. Salmon is best enjoyed shortly after cooking for the best texture.
To reheat, use a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps the panko crust stay crispy. Avoid the microwave to keep the fish from becoming rubbery.
Recipe Tips
- Always pat your salmon dry to ensure the cheese stays put.
- Let the Boursin cheese soften at room temperature for easier spreading.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the delicate fish.
- Press the panko firmly so it creates a solid crunchy crust.
- For a spring touch, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper for the easiest cleanup ever.
- Double the panko mixture if you love extra crunch on your seafood.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Try using the Shallot & Chive Boursin for a different flavor.
- Swap panko for crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- In summer, serve over a fresh garden salad instead of rice.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen fillets for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight. Pat them very dry before adding the cheese layer.
How do I know when it is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The topping will be a beautiful golden brown color.
I hope this creamy salmon becomes a new favorite for your family. It is such a joy to serve something this tasty with so little work. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Boursin Baked Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 5.2 ounces Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon extra -virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season the tops with salt and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet skin-side down.
- Spread approximately 1.25 ounces of Boursin cheese in an even layer over the top of each fillet.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and lemon zest until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the cheese layer on each fillet.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the panko topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
