If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity, elegance, and a burst of flavor, the Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe is a must-try. This recipe transforms tender tilapia filets into a golden, crispy delight with a savory Parmesan crust that locks in moisture and adds delightful texture. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels both fancy and effortless. The harmonious blend of lemon pepper, fresh parsley, and freshly grated cheese creates a taste that’s fresh, zesty, and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to crafting the perfect Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the creamy, salty punch of Parmesan to the bright zing of lemon pepper, creating a balanced and flavorful crust.
- 4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets: Use fresh or thawed tilapia, patted dry for the best crust adherence.
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor and texture for the crust.
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors without overpowering the delicate fish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: Adds zest and a subtle peppery kick that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the cheese.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (not EVOO): Helps the cheese crust adhere and promotes even browning.
- ¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for an extra cheesy crust layer.
- ¼ cup diced green onions (optional): Adds a mild onion crunch and bursts of color when garnishing.
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges): Perfect for squeezing fresh juice over the finished dish to add brightness.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with foil to make cleanup a breeze. This dry heat environment will help achieve that coveted crispy crust on your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe.
Step 2: Drizzle Tilapia with Olive Oil
Coating each tilapia filet with olive oil (avoid extra virgin for a milder flavor) ensures the Parmesan crust will stick nicely and brown beautifully in the oven. This small step makes a big difference for texture.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese and Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper seasoning, kosher salt, and chopped parsley. This flavorful blend is the heart of your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe and adds layers of aromatic flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Tilapia
Press the Parmesan mixture gently but firmly onto each filet, making sure the crust sticks well. This step gives your fish that satisfying crunch and helps keep the fish moist inside.
Step 5: Add a Final Parmesan Sprinkle
Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the coated filets for an extra cheesy topping that will crisp up nicely under heat. It’s the finishing touch that elevates the dish.
Step 6: Bake the Tilapia
Bake the filets in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they’re opaque all the way through when checked at the thickest part. This ensures a perfectly cooked, flaky texture beneath the crust.
Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispy Crust
For a golden, crispy crust, broil the tilapia for an additional 5 minutes, watching closely so the Parmesan doesn’t burn. This gives you that irresistible crust with just the right crunch.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe with diced green onions for a fresh bite and serve alongside lemon wedges. The citrus juice adds a wonderful zing that brings all the flavors together.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of parsley add color and mild crunch to your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe, while lemon wedges bring a bright, refreshing acidity that highlights the cheesy crust beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with light sides like steamed asparagus, garlic butter green beans, or a fresh garden salad. You can also go for creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf to round out the meal and soak up any extra delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the filets on a bed of sautéed spinach or nestle them alongside roasted cherry tomatoes. A drizzle of garlic aioli or a squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving adds a gourmet touch that your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Parmesan Crusted Tilapia in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Storing properly preserves the texture and flavor without moisture making the crust soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked tilapia covered tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. To keep the crust crispier, freeze the filets individually on a tray before wrapping.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers and maintain the crust’s crunch, warm the fish in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes rather than microwaving. This method refreshes the cheese crust while keeping the fish moist inside.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe shines with tilapia’s mild flavor, you can substitute firm white fish like cod or haddock for a similar result.
Is it necessary to use fresh Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best texture and robust flavor to create that perfect crust, but pre-grated cheese can also be used in a pinch.
Can I prepare this recipe without a broiler?
Yes, you can skip the broiler step. The crust will still be deliciously flavorful, though it might not be as crispy or browned on top.
How do I know when the fish is done baking?
The fish is cooked when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork at the thickest part. About 10 minutes at 400°F generally suffices for 4-ounce filets.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that your lemon pepper seasoning does not contain any gluten additives. Always check labels to be certain.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, the Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special but is so quick and easy to prepare. Its crispy, cheesy crust paired with the tender fish inside is a winning combination you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade meal that’s bursting with flavor and warmth every time.
Print
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 tilapia filets)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia recipe features tender tilapia filets baked to perfection with a flavorful crust made from freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper seasoning, and fresh parsley. A quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, finished with green onions and lemon wedges for a bright, zesty touch.
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets, fresh or thawed from frozen, patted dry
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Cheese Crust
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (avoid extra virgin olive oil)
- ¼ cup diced green onions (optional)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Oil the Tilapia: Drizzle the tilapia filets with olive oil to help the cheese mixture adhere and keep the fish moist during baking.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper seasoning, chopped fresh parsley, and kosher salt. Mix well to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Coat the Filets: Press the cheese mixture evenly and firmly onto each tilapia filet, making sure it sticks well to form a crust during baking.
- Add Extra Cheese: Lightly sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese on top of each coated filet to enhance the crust’s texture and cheesiness.
- Bake the Fish: Place the coated tilapia filets on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, about 10 minutes.
- Broil for Crispness: Switch the oven to broil and continue cooking the filets for about 5 minutes, watching closely, until the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy without burning.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from oven, sprinkle with diced green onions if using, and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- Use regular olive oil rather than extra virgin olive oil for a milder flavor and better browning.
- If using frozen tilapia, make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry to ensure a crispy crust.
- Keep a close watch when broiling to prevent the cheese crust from burning.
- The lemon wedges add a fresh brightness that balances the richness of the Parmesan crust.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the lemon pepper seasoning does not contain any gluten additives.
