There’s always fish on our table every New Year’s Eve. Growing up, I was told that fish symbolizes moving forward—never backward—and abundance for the coming year. Over the years, that belief stuck with me.
Eating fish on New Year’s Eve is a widespread tradition believed to bring prosperity, abundance, and good fortune, and honestly, I love that it also gives us a reason to serve something a little special.
Sometimes we go all out, like the Lapu-Lapu in Seafood Sauce we had back in New Year 2019, but most of the time, we come back to this family favorite — Cheesy Baked Salmon.
It’s comforting, indulgent, and easy enough to prepare even when the house is busy and noisy with holiday energy.
A look back: New Year 2025, New Year 2024, New year 2023, New Year 2022, New Year 2018, New Year 2017
Why Cheesy Baked Salmon Became Our New Year Staple
This Cheesy Baked Salmon hits all the right notes for a celebration dish:
- It feels special and festive
- It’s rich and satisfying but not overwhelming
- It’s easy to prepare ahead—perfect for holidays
- And most importantly, everyone loves it
This dish has made its way not just to our New Year’s table but also to our Christmas celebrations. In fact, this was exactly what we brought to Ate Arlene’s house on Christmas Day — and it was a hit there too.
There’s something about flaky salmon topped with a creamy, cheesy crust that makes people come back for seconds.
A Dish That Fits the Tradition (and Real Life)
I love recipes that balance tradition and practicality. While the belief behind serving fish is meaningful, what makes this dish extra special is how it fits into real family celebrations.
It doesn’t require fancy techniques.
It doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen.
And yet, it looks and tastes like something you’d proudly put on the center of the table.
For me, that’s what holiday cooking should be — intentional but not stressful.
What Makes This Cheesy Baked Salmon So Good
The magic is really in the topping.
The creamy mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, and cheddar melts beautifully over the salmon, creating a rich layer that keeps the fish moist. The breadcrumbs and butter on top add just enough crunch to contrast with the tender salmon underneath.
Paired with buttery sautéed corn and carrots, it becomes a complete dish — colorful, comforting, and perfect for sharing.
Perfect for Christmas, New Year, and Any Special Gathering
This Cheesy Baked Salmon has become one of those dishes I keep coming back to — not just because of tradition, but because it works. It travels well, reheats nicely, and still feels celebratory even on a simple family table.
Whether it’s for:
- Christmas Day potlucks
- New Year’s Eve dinners
- Or even a Sunday family lunch that needs something extra
This recipe always delivers.
A Simple Wish for the New Year
As we welcome another year, I love starting it with food that symbolizes hope, abundance, and moving forward — together as a family.
If you’re looking for a fish dish to add to your holiday menu, this Cheesy Baked Salmon might just become a tradition in your home too.
Here’s to full plates, happy hearts, and a year filled with good food and better days ahead 💛
PrintCheesy Baked Salmon
Ingredients
- 1kg salmon fillet
- lemon juice
- salt and pepper
Cheese Topping
- 1/2 cream cheese
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped finely
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cheddar cheese, shredded
- salt and pepper
- bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter
Corn & Carrots
- frozen corn and carrots
- butter
- parsley, chopped
- lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
-
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillet in a foil tray and pat dry with paper towels.
- Drizzle the salmon with lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, grated cheddar cheese, and a little salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Spread the mayo-cheese mixture evenly over the salmon.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, then dot with cold butter for extra richness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon and your preferred doneness. If the top needs more browning, you may torch lightly until golden and bubbly.
- While the salmon is baking, melt butter in a pan and sauté the corn and carrots for 3–5 minutes or until tender. Season lightly with salt if needed.
- Once the salmon is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Arrange the sautéed corn and carrots on the side.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.
