Imagine a dish that combines the rich, flaky goodness of salmon with the tangy, creamy magic of ranch and melted cheese - a culinary masterpiece that's about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner! This Baked Salmon Ranch Cheese recipe is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary fish into an extraordinary dining experience that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the ranch dressing and cheese adhere better to the fish.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring even coverage for balanced flavor.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each fillet for even cooking.
- Drizzle lemon juice over each salmon fillet to add brightness and help tenderize the fish.
- Spread ranch dressing evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, creating a thick and creamy coating.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the ranch dressing layer, covering the entire surface of each fillet.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Check the salmon's doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired, and pair with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Pat your salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning - this ensures the ranch dressing and cheese stick perfectly and create a beautiful golden crust.
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Wild-caught salmon typically offers a more robust taste.
- Choose a good-quality ranch dressing - homemade or premium store-bought will elevate the entire dish.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or dried herbs like dill to the cheese topping.
- Don't overcook the salmon! The key is removing it from the oven when it just becomes opaque and flakes easily, which prevents dryness.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and tenderness.
- For a low-carb option, serve with roasted vegetables instead of rice or pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
