12 Parmesan Recipes That Go Big on Flavor Without Going Overboard

Parmesan is one of those ingredients that brings out the best in everything it touches. It can crisp up a crust, melt into a creamy sauce, or add a salty finish to roasted vegetables and meats. This collection highlights some of the most satisfying Parmesan-forward dishes that don’t require heavy prep or fancy techniques. From skillet dinners and air fryer meals to hearty casseroles and even a keto-friendly salmon, these recipes prove that Parmesan deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon

Would you like to save this?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!

Salmon fillets get a crisp, savory crust of Parmesan, herbs, and seasonings before going into the oven. The cheese browns up beautifully while keeping the fish tender. This is a low-carb meal that still tastes rich. Pair with a simple side salad or roasted veggies.
Get the Recipe: Keto Baked Parmesan Salmon

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

A casserole dish with meatloaf and parsley on a cutting board. — Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Classic meatloaf meets cheesy comfort with this Italian-inspired twist. It’s loaded with garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and tomato sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella. Each slice is moist, flavorful, and hearty. It bakes up into the kind of dish that makes great leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

A plate of creamy pasta topped with shredded cheese and red pepper flakes, with a fork placed on the side. — Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Everything cooks together in a single pot, including the pasta, garlic, broth, and Parmesan. The starches from the pasta help thicken the sauce. The result is a creamy, savory meal in under 30 minutes. Add cooked chicken or shrimp if you want more protein.
Get the Recipe: Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli

This skillet dinner is bright and satisfying with tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cheese. Parmesan melts into the sauce, coating every bite. It’s a fast and flavorful way to add more greens to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli

Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Sliced pork tenderloin on a serving platter with herbs, accompanied by a bowl of seasoned baby potatoes and a bowl of rice. — Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

A mixture of Parmesan, herbs, and breadcrumbs forms a golden crust around a juicy pork tenderloin. It’s roasted until crisp on the outside and tender inside. The cheese adds a nutty, savory layer that enhances the pork’s flavor. Slice and serve with mashed potatoes or a light salad.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Creamy zucchini pasta sauce with shaved parmesan. — Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Zucchini blends down into a creamy, herb-packed sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Parmesan gives it depth and just the right amount of saltiness. It’s a clever way to add veggies without sacrificing richness. A fresh and satisfying vegetarian dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Thin chicken cutlets are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then air-fried to crispy perfection. The cheese helps create a golden crust while keeping the meat juicy. It’s a great weeknight dinner with less oil and cleanup. Serve with roasted vegetables or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Pieces of chicken on a plate of spaghetti. — Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The air fryer delivers a crispy crust and melty cheese in record time. Chicken cutlets are breaded with Parmesan and topped with marinara and mozzarella. It’s a lighter version of a favorite Italian comfort food. Best served with spaghetti or garlic bread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini

A large pan filled with tortellini pasta, beef cubes, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and a creamy sauce, garnished with herbs and grated cheese. — Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Tender pieces of steak and cheese-stuffed tortellini come together in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s rich and filling with bold, savory flavor. Great for a one-pan meal that feels a little special. Toss in some spinach or mushrooms if you like.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini

Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Parmesan

Pressure cooking keeps the chicken juicy while infusing it with bright lemon and savory Parmesan flavor. The sauce thickens as it cooks, creating a rich base. It’s finished under the broiler with a quick layer of cheese. Serve over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Parmesan

Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks

Drumsticks roast with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs on one sheet pan for easy cleanup. The cheese forms a flavorful crust as it bakes. Add potatoes or veggies to the tray for a full dinner. It’s big on flavor and low on fuss.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A bowl of penne pasta mixed with shredded chicken and topped with grated cheese, placed on a light-colored surface with a fork nearby. — Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Chicken slow-cooks in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, then gets tossed with cooked pasta at the end. The sauce is rich, cheesy, and smooth. It’s a family-friendly dish that takes minimal effort. Add spinach or broccoli for extra texture.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta