Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy and utterly crave-worthy, my Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon is about to become your new obsession. This vibrant dish marries the rich, flaky goodness of salmon with the iconic crunch and flavor of everything bagel seasoning, creating a meal that’s bold, nourishing, and ready in just about 15 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The real beauty of Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon is how it transforms just a handful of everyday ingredients into something restaurant-worthy. Each element brings its own magic, from the savory crunch of the seasoning to the silky richness of the salmon—let’s break it down!

• Salmon Fillets (4 x 6oz, skin on): Go for center-cut fillets for even cooking, and keep the skin on for flavor and to help hold the fish together in the pan.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning (¼ cup): This magical blend of sesame seeds, dried garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt is the star, giving your salmon a crave-worthy crunch.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Lends richness, helps the crust brown beautifully, and keeps the fish juicy.
• Salt & Pepper: Just a pinch to enhance all the bold flavors without overpowering the seasoning.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon is how endlessly adaptable it is. You can tweak the crust, switch up the cooking method, or tailor it for different diets—let your own taste (and your pantry) guide you!

• Air Fryer Magic: Take the fast lane by air frying your salmon fillets for even crispier results—no need to flip!
• Gluten-Free Option: Many everything bagel seasonings are gluten-free, but check the label just in case, or whip up your own blend at home.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the bagel seasoning if you love a touch of heat.
• Dairy-Free Sauce Pairing: Skip the tzatziki and serve with a simple lemony vinaigrette or dairy-free yogurt sauce.

How to Make Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon

Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the everything bagel seasoning stick. Lightly season each fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper—don’t go overboard, since the bagel mix already packs a salty punch. Getting the salmon nice and dry ensures a perfectly crisp crust.

Step 2: Crust with Everything Bagel Seasoning

Pour the everything bagel seasoning onto a plate. Press the flesh side (not the skin!) of each salmon fillet firmly into the seasoning, so you get a gorgeous, even coating. Try to keep the skin side clean—this is what will crisp up against the pan.

Step 3: Sear Skin Side Down

In an oven-safe sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering hot, place your salmon fillets skin-side down. Sear for 3 minutes without moving them – this crisps the skin beautifully and secures the crust in place.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Turn off the heat and slide your pan straight into a preheated 350°F oven. Bake for 5–8 minutes, depending on how done you like your salmon—just until it flakes easily with a fork. Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven; remember to cover the handle with an oven mitt so no one accidentally grabs it!

Step 5: Extra Crisp (Optional!)

If you’re a crunch fanatic, finish by flipping the salmon so the crusted side touches the pan. Sear for one more minute over medium heat—the bagel crust will get even toastier and more irresistible.

How to Serve Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon

Garnishes

A shower of fresh herbs like dill or chives instantly brightens everything—try a squeeze of fresh lemon for zing, or a dollop of tzatziki or Greek yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast. Microgreens or a handful of arugula add freshness and beautiful color alongside the golden crust.

Side Dishes

This Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon plays beautifully with so many sides. I love it over a peppery arugula salad, alongside cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, or with a pile of roasted veggies. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy quinoa, or a tangy Greek salad all round out the plate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the (bagel) box! Flake cooled salmon onto a bagel with cream cheese for an epic open-faced sandwich, layer it in a grain bowl, or slice into elegant appetizer bites for brunch. For gatherings, platter the fillets on a bed of greens with fresh lemon slices for a wow-worthy centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon keeps beautifully for up to 4 days in the fridge. Store in an airtight container to preserve that wonderful crust and to keep the salmon moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze any extra cooked salmon! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—while the crust may soften a bit, the flavors shine through.

Reheating

To revive that irresistible crust, reheat salmon in a 350°F oven, toaster oven, or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. I avoid the microwave because it can make the crust soggy, but if time is short, just heat in 30-second intervals until nicely warmed.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Everything Bagel Crusted Salmon truly brings together convenience, flavor, and a little kitchen fun. I can’t wait for you to experience just how easy and memorable this dish is—don’t be surprised if it becomes your weeknight hero or brunch showstopper. Give it a try, and let your table become everyone’s favorite place to be!

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