Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor? This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe is the answer to your culinary prayers! With a crispy, cheesy topping and tender fish beneath, it’s a delightful meal that will please your palate and impress your family or guests. Whether you have fresh or frozen tilapia on hand, this recipe is versatile and quick, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
The beauty of this Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. The combination of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon pepper seasoning creates a delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the flaky tilapia. You’ll find that this dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, allowing you to savor a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it an adaptable choice for any dinner occasion.
Ingredient List
To whip up this scrumptious meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets, fresh or frozen (thawed), patted dry
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (see note)
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (don’t use EVOO)
- 1/4 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup diced green onions (optional)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Appliances & Accessories
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need the following appliances and accessories:
- Oven: For baking the tilapia to perfection.
- Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet works best to contain any juices.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the crust ingredients.
- Whisk or fork: To mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping the tilapia and serving.
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe: From Prep to Plate
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this flavorful dish!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the tilapia cooks evenly and achieves a crisp crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will help prevent the fish from sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Topping
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, lemon pepper seasoning, chopped fresh parsley, and the shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix these ingredients well until they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Coat the Tilapia
Take the tilapia filets and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Brush both sides of each filet with olive oil, then press them into the cheese mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the coated tilapia filets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The crust should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the tilapia from the oven. If you opted for green onions, sprinkle them on top for added flavor and color. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
In-Season Flavor Ideas
To enhance your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe, consider incorporating seasonal flavors:
- Fresh herbs such as dill or basil for a fragrant touch.
- Sliced cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Steamed asparagus or broccoli for a nutritious side.
- Wild rice or quinoa to complement the fish and add texture.
Learn from These Mistakes
When preparing your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Skipping the drying step: Moist fish will not yield a crispy crust.
- Using pre-grated cheese: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh Parmesan.
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the fish to prevent it from drying out.
- Not seasoning enough: Don’t be shy with the salt and spices; they elevate the dish!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are some storage tips:
- Refrigerate any leftover tilapia in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Quick Q&A
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tilapia is a great choice, you can substitute it with other mild white fish like cod or haddock.
What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Tilapia?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even pasta. For a delightful twist, try it alongside Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken And Asparagus Skillet.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or breadcrumbs. Just make sure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare the crust ahead of time?
You can mix the crust ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just coat the tilapia when you’re ready to bake!
If you loved this recipe, check out these delicious options to expand your culinary repertoire:
Next Steps
Now that you have the full scoop on this delectable Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to shine on any table. Enjoy the crispiness of the Parmesan crust alongside the tender fish, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations and any variations you try. Happy cooking!
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and a crisp crust.
- Step 2: Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, combine freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, lemon pepper seasoning, chopped fresh parsley, and shredded Parmesan. Mix well.
- Step 4: Pat the tilapia filets dry. Brush both sides with olive oil and press into the cheese mixture to coat.
- Step 5: Arrange the coated tilapia on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
- Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily, with a golden brown crust.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with green onions if using, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For best flavor, always use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated.
- Pair with seasonal vegetables or grains like wild rice for a complete meal.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
