Salmon with Mayo Baked – Moist, Flavorful, and Foolproof Every Time

If you’ve ever struggled to keep your salmon tender and flavorful in the oven, this salmon with mayo baked recipe is your answer. It takes just minutes to prepare and results in ultra-moist, flaky salmon with a delicious golden crust. With just mayo, Parmesan, and lemon, you can transform simple salmon into something truly crave-worthy.

Try this comforting dish just like our egg ground beef recipe that also delivers rich flavor with minimal ingredients.

Why This Salmon with Mayo Baked Recipe Works

This dish is all about technique and texture. Mayonnaise may seem like an unexpected addition, but it acts as both a flavor enhancer and a moisture-locking layer. Baking the fish at high heat allows the top to develop a golden crust while the inside stays buttery soft.

Here’s why it’s a weeknight staple:

• Just 5 minutes of prep
• 15-minute total cook time
• Adaptable for different flavors
• Beginner-friendly
• Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly

You’ll never have to worry about dry, overcooked salmon again.

Salmon with Mayo Baked – Moist, Flavorful, and Foolproof Every Time

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This salmon with mayo baked recipe is a simple yet delicious way to prepare juicy, flaky salmon with a golden Parmesan crust. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and comes together in just 5 steps.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 salmon fillets (about 150g / 5 oz each), skin-on or off

⅓ cup mayonnaise (classic, garlic, or avocado oil mayo)

¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

1 lemon, thinly sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over the top of each fillet.
4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and top each with 1–2 lemon slices.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork (internal temp: 130–135°F).
6. Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with herbs if desired.

• Author: Noureddine
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Oven-Baked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients You’ll Need

You likely have everything on hand already. This salmon with mayo baked method uses real, whole ingredients for big payoff with minimal effort.

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150g each), skin-on or skinless
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise (classic, avocado oil, or garlic mayo)
• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Optional mix-ins: chili flakes, Dijon mustard, or a sprinkle of paprika

How to Make Salmon with Mayo Baked

This one-pan recipe couldn’t be easier. Here’s exactly how to get that tender texture and crispy golden top:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C)
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil
3. Pat each salmon fillet completely dry
4. Season lightly with salt and pepper
5. Spread a thin, even layer of mayo on top of each fillet
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the mayo
7. Top each piece with a lemon slice
8. Bake for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness (1 inch = ~9 mins)
9. Rest for 2 minutes, garnish with herbs, and serve immediately

Don’t be tempted to overcook — the mayo and cheese will lock in moisture beautifully.

Flavor Variations to Try

This salmon with mayo baked method is incredibly versatile. Here are three delicious twists to keep it fresh and exciting:

1. Spicy Garlic Mayo Salmon

• Stir garlic and chili flakes into the mayo
• Top with smoked paprika and a squeeze of lime

2. Parmesan-Panko Crusted Salmon

• Add ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs to the cheese
• Finish under the broiler for extra crisp texture

3. Lemon Dill Mayo Salmon

• Mix lemon zest and chopped fresh dill into the mayo
• Perfect for meal prep with brown rice and green beans

Each of these keeps the base technique intact while shifting the flavor profile.

If you’re into fresh seafood ideas, this cold shrimp recipe makes a great side or light starter alongside your baked salmon.

What to Serve with Salmon with Mayo Baked

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Garlic-roasted green beans or asparagus
• Herbed rice or quinoa
• Cauliflower mash or buttery potatoes
• A crisp cucumber-tomato salad

Or flake it cold the next day into a grain bowl or sandwich — it’s just as good chilled.

Make-Ahead Tips & Storage

Need to plan ahead? This recipe makes it easy.

• Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and store, covered, in the fridge
• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days
• Reheat in a 350°F oven until just warmed — avoid microwaving
• Do not freeze — mayo can separate when thawed

This salmon with mayo baked is excellent for meal prep — the mayo keeps it moist even after reheating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to make sure your salmon turns out perfect every time:

• Too much mayo can lead to a soggy crust
• Not drying the fillets makes the topping slide off
• Using shredded cheese instead of grated — it won’t melt evenly
• Overcooking ruins the texture — always aim for medium doneness
• No lemon? You’ll miss the brightness that balances the richness

FAQs – Salmon with Mayo Baked

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes — just thaw fully and pat dry before baking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low-carb, high-fat, and packed with protein.

How long does it take to bake?
About 8–10 minutes at 450°F. Adjust for thickness.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
You can, but the flavor will be tangier and the crust less golden.

What’s the best way to check doneness?
Use a fork to flake the thickest part or a thermometer: 130–135°F is perfect.

Final Tips for the Best Baked Salmon

Before you preheat your oven, keep these final notes in mind:

• Always use a high oven temp for best texture
• Use grated, not shredded cheese for better melting
• Let the fish rest 2–3 minutes before serving
• Try mixing your mayo with herbs, mustard, or spice blends for variety

Once you try this salmon with mayo baked recipe, it might just become your new go-to — it’s that simple, satisfying, and foolproof.

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