Introduction
Discover a delightful and easy way to prepare tilapia with this Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia recipe. This simple dish not only offers a crispy, cheesy topping but also a burst of flavor that comes from lemon pepper seasoning and fresh parsley. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress your guests, this meal can be ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions to create this seafood delight!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets, fresh or thawed from frozen, patted dry
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil (avoid extra virgin)
¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
*For Garnish:*
¼ cup diced green onions (optional)
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy your delicious Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the tilapia filets, ensuring they are well-coated.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper seasoning, chopped fresh parsley, and kosher salt. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Fish
Press the cheese mixture onto the tilapia filets firmly, ensuring that the mixture adheres well to the fish.
Step 5: Add Shredded Parmesan
Sprinkle the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese over the coated tilapia filets for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake the Fish
Carefully place the coated filets on the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque in the thickest part.
Step 7: Broil for Crispiness (Optional)
For a crispier crust, switch the oven to broil and broil the fish for an additional 5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the baked tilapia with diced green onions, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
Notes
Option for Freshness
For best results, use fresh tilapia filets. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Olive Oil Choice
Use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor of the tilapia.
Cooking Time Variations
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the filets; ensure the fish is fully cooked through. If in doubt, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C).
Adjusting Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon pepper or kosher salt according to your taste preferences.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven is essential for ensuring that your fish cooks evenly and thoroughly. Set your oven to 400°F before you start preparing the tilapia to save time and ensure the ideal cooking temperature.
Coating with Cheese Mixture
Mixing the grated Parmesan cheese with lemon pepper seasoning, chopped parsley, and kosher salt creates a flavorful and crunchy coating. Press the mixture onto the tilapia filets firmly to ensure it sticks well during baking.
Drizzling Olive Oil
Drizzling olive oil over the tilapia filets before adding the cheese mixture helps to create a crispy texture as it bakes. Use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin to avoid a strong flavor that might overpower the dish.
Baking Fish
Bake the tilapia filets for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque at its thickest part. This technique ensures the fish is cooked through while retaining its moisture.
Broiling for Crispiness
If you prefer a crispier crust, briefly broil the fish for about 5 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on it during this process to avoid burning the cheese.
Garnishing for Presentation
Adding diced green onions and serving the baked tilapia with lemon wedges enhances both the flavor and appearance of the dish. This final touch adds freshness and a pop of color.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tilapia filets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia filets, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before preparing.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan cheese, consider using Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese coating ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake the tilapia just before serving for optimal texture.
How do I know when the tilapia is cooked properly?
Tilapia is cooked when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
What other seasonings can I add to the cheese mixture?
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
Conclusion
This baked Parmesan tilapia recipe is a delicious and simple way to prepare a healthy meal. The combination of Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper seasoning, and fresh parsley creates a flavorful crust that complements the tender fish beautifully. Serve it with lemon wedges and green onions for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Sauté shrimp in garlic butter, toss with lemon juice, and serve over pasta or rice for a quick and tasty dish.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Marinate chicken breasts in lemon juice, olive oil, and your favorite herbs, then grill to perfection for a light and flavorful meal.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Stir-fry seasonal vegetables in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a quick side that pairs wonderfully with any main dish.
Quinoa Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta
Combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon
Season salmon fillets with fresh dill and lemon slices, then bake until flaky for a healthy and satisfying dinner option.
