Quick Baked Salmon With Mayo Recipe: Easy & Creamy

This baked salmon with mayo is rich and flaky.

Made in only 15 minutes, it’s the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight dinner but it still works for special occasions too. 

With the main ingredient being mayo, this recipe is a mayo-lover’s dream come true!

Whether you’re a mayo enthusiast or simply curious to explore new flavors, this salmon dish promises a delectable and satisfying dining experience

Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Recipe

• A simple and easy oven recipe that can be made any night of the week in no time. 
  
• The mayo topping locks the moisture in the salmon creating the perfect texture. 
  
• Simple ingredients that you already have in your kitchen. 
  
• It’s healthy too. This salmon dinner is a high-protein nutritious meal packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids while mayo adds a creamy touch without being overly heavy.

Ingredients Needed For Baked Salmon with Mayo Recipe

• 2 large fresh salmon filets, skin on
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper

Full Instructions With Pictures

Prep the salmon by washing it and tapping it dry with a paper towel.

Preheat oven to 400º F.

Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray.  Set aside.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Mix well.

Place salmon fillets on your prepared oiled baking sheet skin side down.

Brush the mayo mixture over the top of the salmon fillets. Make sure there is a thin layer of mayo covering the entire piece. 

Bake salmon for 8-10 minutes or until salmon is pink, flaky, and browned a bit on top.

Flake the salmon with a fork to check doneness.

Variation Ideas for the Best Baked Salmon Recipe with Mayonnaise

• If you don’t typically use dairy-based mayo, you can use your favorite mayonnaise.
  
  Avocado oil mayo or other vegan mayos can be used for a healthier version. 
  
• Experiment with various herbs and spices to customize the mayo mixture.
  
  Consider using dill, parsley, thyme, or even a touch of smoked paprika for a unique twist on flavors. Or even try spreading some homemade Cajun butter on top for a smoky kick.
  
• Flavored mayonnaise can give a flavor burst.
  
  Sriracha mayo for a fiery kick, garlic mayo for extra zest, or even wasabi mayo for a Japanese-inspired fusion.
  

• Try adding a generous sprinkling of Furikake seasoning over the top of the salmon fillets before baking for a blend of Japanese-inspired flavors.
  
• Add an appealing crunch by incorporating breadcrumbs into the mayo mixture or sprinkling them over the salmon before baking. This will create a contrast in texture.
  
• Grate citrus juice and zest (like lemon juice, lime, or orange) into the mayo mixture to bring a refreshing, tangy twist to your baked salmon.
  
  Top with lemon slices. The citrus will uplift the dish. Pair it with baked sliced zucchini or Utica greens.
  
• If you’re a cheese enthusiast, consider incorporating finely grated cheese (such as cheddar or feta) into the mayo topping for an indulgent, melty finish.
  
• Balance flavors by blending a touch of honey or maple syrup into the mayo mixture, harmonizing sweet and savory notes for a unique culinary experience.
  
  
• Pair with an equally quick and easy dessert like these strawberry turnovers.

Tips for Preparation

1. Select Premium Salmon Fillets: Opt for high-quality salmon fillets, preferably wild salmon, as they offer superior flavor and texture when making this baked salmon recipe with mayonnaise.
   
   The best way is to look for fillets with vibrant color, firm texture, and minimal odor.
   
2. Use parchment paper instead of aluminum foil. Don’t have aluminum foil?
   
   You can also line the sheet pan with parchment paper. Make sure to spray it with non-stick spray for best results.
   
   It makes sure the salmon doesn’t stick as well as makes for easy cleanup.
   
3. Adjust Cooking Time: Adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your parmesan-crusted salmon with mayo fillets.
   
   Thicker fillets might need a few more minutes in the oven, while thinner ones could be ready slightly sooner. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
   
4. Even Mayo Application: Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, covering the surface entirely.
   
   This not only adds flavor but also helps seal in moisture during baking.
   
5. Flaking Test for Doneness: A simple rule of thumb, to determine if the salmon is cooked to perfection, gently insert a fork and twist. If the fish flakes easily and appears opaque throughout, it’s done.
   
   If it’s still translucent in the center, bake for a few more minutes and test again. You can also use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of salmon should be 145° F. 
   
6. Resting Time: Allow the baked salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after taking it out of the oven.
   
   This helps redistribute juices, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final dish.

Storage for Baked Salmon Recipe with Mayo

The leftover salmon with mayo will need to be stored in the refrigerator. Keep in it an airtight container or wrapped well in plastic wrap. It will last for up to 3-5 days.

Warm up in the oven at 350° F. While the microwave can be used for a quick reheating fix, it’s more prone to causing the fish to become dry.

You can also use the cold salmon as a topping for a side salad or make these delicious salmon tacos.

One Last Thing

This is a great recipe to try for a salmon lover! An easy way to bring some gourmet flair to your dinner table.

The best part is that it’s very simple to make this delicious baked salmon. Even first time home cooks will make it right every time.

A crucial tip to remember when baking salmon with mayo sauce is to err on the side of slightly undercooking.

Salmon continues to cook a bit even after being removed from the oven due to residual heat.

This prevents the risk of ending up with dry, overcooked salmon.

You don’t want to take the mouthwatering juices away from this flaky fish. 

Next time you have a whole fillet of pink salmon try covering it with this mixture of mayonnaise and it might become your favorite way to cook salmon!

Your Turn

If you try this recipe, please take a moment to let me know how you liked it by leaving a star rating and a comment below on the recipe card.

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