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Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Flavorful Dinner Dish

by on August 20, 2025
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Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia is the perfect dish! With a crunchy topping and flaky fish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it takes just minutes to prepare. Whether you are a busy parent or a cooking newbie, I will guide you through each step. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful meal that is easy to make and delightful to eat!

- 4 tilapia fillets - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - ½ teaspoon sea salt - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice What can I use instead of tilapia? You can use other fish like cod or haddock. These fish also bake well and have a mild taste. What if I need a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. They work just as well and keep the crust crispy. Should I use fresh or dried herbs? Fresh herbs like parsley add great flavor. If you use dried, cut the amount in half since they are stronger. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for a crispy crust. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Add 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Mix these well. You want a flavorful blend that will give your tilapia a great crunch. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This will keep the fish moist and add flavor. Take each tilapia fillet and dip it into this mixture. Make sure to coat both sides well. Then, dip the fillet into the breadcrumb mix. Press firmly so the crust sticks. Place the fillets on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one. Now, it's time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and set a timer for 15-20 minutes. The tilapia is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust turns golden brown. This is the perfect sign that your meal is delicious and cooked just right! To get a great crust, coat the fish evenly. Start by pressing the tilapia into the breadcrumb mix firmly. This helps the crust stick well. For a crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They add more crunch and lightness. You can spice things up with a few extras. Try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some lemon zest for brightness. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme also add great flavor. Pair your tilapia with sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. They balance the meal and add more nutrients. Letting the fish rest after baking is key. This step helps keep the moisture in, making each bite tender. For leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven. This keeps the crust crispy. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it. {{image_4}} You can make this dish your own with a few simple changes. Try adding fresh lemon zest to the crust for a bright taste. You can also mix in fresh herbs like dill or thyme. They give a fresh and aromatic touch. For a kick, consider using hot paprika or cayenne for some heat. This adds a spicy layer that many will love. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste. Baking the tilapia gives it a light, crispy texture. The fish stays moist, which makes it a winner for me. Fried tilapia, on the other hand, offers a richer flavor. If you prefer frying, use a hot oil that reaches 350°F (175°C). Coat the fish as usual, then fry each fillet until golden brown. This will take about 3-4 minutes per side. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. A well-rounded meal makes any dish shine. Pair your tilapia with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds crunch. For a fun twist, serve the tilapia on a bed of quinoa or rice. To plate, place the fillet at an angle on the plate. Add a lemon wedge and sprinkle some parsley on top for a pop of color. This makes the dish look stunning and taste even better! To keep your baked Parmesan crusted tilapia fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the fillets in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents odors from mixing. Your leftovers will last for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, the fish may lose its flavor and texture. If you want to save the tilapia for later, freezing works well. First, let the fish cool completely. Then, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped fillets in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat, move the tilapia to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This method keeps the fish tasting great. To enjoy your tilapia again, reheating is key. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the fillets on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This keeps them moist. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If you use a microwave, set it to low power. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This helps maintain the texture of the crispy crust. I recommend baking tilapia for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. This ensures a moist texture and a crispy crust. Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for quick thawing. Bake as usual after thawing. I love pairing this tilapia with fresh sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed broccoli - Roasted asparagus - Quinoa salad - Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette These sides enhance the dish and add variety to your meal. Tilapia is a good source of protein and low in calories. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. Plus, it's easy to cook and very versatile in meals. You now have the tools to make delicious baked Parmesan crusted tilapia. We covered the key ingredients, from tilapia fillets to panko breadcrumbs. You learned how to prepare, coat, and bake for that perfect crust. I shared tips for keeping it crispy and ideas for variations. Don't forget about proper storage and reheating methods. With these steps, you'll enjoy a tasty meal you can make again and again. Dive into experimenting and delight in your culinary creation!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 tilapia fillets

– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– ½ teaspoon sea salt

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Ingredient Substitutions

What can I use instead of tilapia?

You can use other fish like cod or haddock. These fish also bake well and have a mild taste.

What if I need a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. They work just as well and keep the crust crispy.

Should I use fresh or dried herbs?

Fresh herbs like parsley add great flavor. If you use dried, cut the amount in half since they are stronger.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for a crispy crust. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.

Mixing the Crust Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Add 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Mix these well. You want a flavorful blend that will give your tilapia a great crunch.

Coating the Fillets

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This will keep the fish moist and add flavor. Take each tilapia fillet and dip it into this mixture. Make sure to coat both sides well. Then, dip the fillet into the breadcrumb mix. Press firmly so the crust sticks. Place the fillets on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one.

Baking the Tilapia

Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and set a timer for 15-20 minutes. The tilapia is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust turns golden brown. This is the perfect sign that your meal is delicious and cooked just right!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Crust

To get a great crust, coat the fish evenly. Start by pressing the tilapia into the breadcrumb mix firmly. This helps the crust stick well. For a crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They add more crunch and lightness.

Flavor Enhancements

You can spice things up with a few extras. Try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some lemon zest for brightness. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme also add great flavor. Pair your tilapia with sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. They balance the meal and add more nutrients.

Cooking and Baking Tips

Letting the fish rest after baking is key. This step helps keep the moisture in, making each bite tender. For leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven. This keeps the crust crispy. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it.

Variations

Flavorful Additions

You can make this dish your own with a few simple changes. Try adding fresh lemon zest to the crust for a bright taste. You can also mix in fresh herbs like dill or thyme. They give a fresh and aromatic touch. For a kick, consider using hot paprika or cayenne for some heat. This adds a spicy layer that many will love. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Baked vs. Fried

Baking the tilapia gives it a light, crispy texture. The fish stays moist, which makes it a winner for me. Fried tilapia, on the other hand, offers a richer flavor. If you prefer frying, use a hot oil that reaches 350°F (175°C). Coat the fish as usual, then fry each fillet until golden brown. This will take about 3-4 minutes per side. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

A well-rounded meal makes any dish shine. Pair your tilapia with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds crunch. For a fun twist, serve the tilapia on a bed of quinoa or rice. To plate, place the fillet at an angle on the plate. Add a lemon wedge and sprinkle some parsley on top for a pop of color. This makes the dish look stunning and taste even better!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your baked Parmesan crusted tilapia fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the fillets in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents odors from mixing. Your leftovers will last for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, the fish may lose its flavor and texture.

Freezing Options

If you want to save the tilapia for later, freezing works well. First, let the fish cool completely. Then, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped fillets in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat, move the tilapia to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This method keeps the fish tasting great.

Reheating Methods

To enjoy your tilapia again, reheating is key. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the fillets on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This keeps them moist. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If you use a microwave, set it to low power. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This helps maintain the texture of the crispy crust.

FAQs

How long should I bake tilapia?

I recommend baking tilapia for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. This ensures a moist texture and a crispy crust.

Can I use frozen tilapia?

Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for quick thawing. Bake as usual after thawing.

What to serve with baked Parmesan crusted tilapia?

I love pairing this tilapia with fresh sides. Here are some great options:

– Steamed broccoli

– Roasted asparagus

– Quinoa salad

– Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette

These sides enhance the dish and add variety to your meal.

Is tilapia a healthy choice?

Tilapia is a good source of protein and low in calories. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. Plus, it’s easy to cook and very versatile in meals.

You now have the tools to make delicious baked Parmesan crusted tilapia. We covered the key ingredients, from tilapia fillets to panko breadcrumbs. You learned how to prepare, coat, and bake for that perfect crust. I shared tips for keeping it crispy and ideas for variations. Don’t forget about proper storage and reheating methods. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal you can make again and again. Dive into experimenting and delight in your culinary creation!

- 4 tilapia fillets - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - ½ teaspoon sea salt - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice What can I use instead of tilapia? You can use other fish like cod or haddock. These fish also bake well and have a mild taste. What if I need a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. They work just as well and keep the crust crispy. Should I use fresh or dried herbs? Fresh herbs like parsley add great flavor. If you use dried, cut the amount in half since they are stronger. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for a crispy crust. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Add 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Mix these well. You want a flavorful blend that will give your tilapia a great crunch. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This will keep the fish moist and add flavor. Take each tilapia fillet and dip it into this mixture. Make sure to coat both sides well. Then, dip the fillet into the breadcrumb mix. Press firmly so the crust sticks. Place the fillets on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one. Now, it's time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and set a timer for 15-20 minutes. The tilapia is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust turns golden brown. This is the perfect sign that your meal is delicious and cooked just right! To get a great crust, coat the fish evenly. Start by pressing the tilapia into the breadcrumb mix firmly. This helps the crust stick well. For a crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They add more crunch and lightness. You can spice things up with a few extras. Try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some lemon zest for brightness. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme also add great flavor. Pair your tilapia with sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. They balance the meal and add more nutrients. Letting the fish rest after baking is key. This step helps keep the moisture in, making each bite tender. For leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven. This keeps the crust crispy. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it. {{image_4}} You can make this dish your own with a few simple changes. Try adding fresh lemon zest to the crust for a bright taste. You can also mix in fresh herbs like dill or thyme. They give a fresh and aromatic touch. For a kick, consider using hot paprika or cayenne for some heat. This adds a spicy layer that many will love. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste. Baking the tilapia gives it a light, crispy texture. The fish stays moist, which makes it a winner for me. Fried tilapia, on the other hand, offers a richer flavor. If you prefer frying, use a hot oil that reaches 350°F (175°C). Coat the fish as usual, then fry each fillet until golden brown. This will take about 3-4 minutes per side. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. A well-rounded meal makes any dish shine. Pair your tilapia with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds crunch. For a fun twist, serve the tilapia on a bed of quinoa or rice. To plate, place the fillet at an angle on the plate. Add a lemon wedge and sprinkle some parsley on top for a pop of color. This makes the dish look stunning and taste even better! To keep your baked Parmesan crusted tilapia fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the fillets in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents odors from mixing. Your leftovers will last for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, the fish may lose its flavor and texture. If you want to save the tilapia for later, freezing works well. First, let the fish cool completely. Then, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped fillets in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat, move the tilapia to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This method keeps the fish tasting great. To enjoy your tilapia again, reheating is key. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the fillets on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This keeps them moist. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If you use a microwave, set it to low power. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This helps maintain the texture of the crispy crust. I recommend baking tilapia for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. This ensures a moist texture and a crispy crust. Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for quick thawing. Bake as usual after thawing. I love pairing this tilapia with fresh sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed broccoli - Roasted asparagus - Quinoa salad - Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette These sides enhance the dish and add variety to your meal. Tilapia is a good source of protein and low in calories. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. Plus, it's easy to cook and very versatile in meals. You now have the tools to make delicious baked Parmesan crusted tilapia. We covered the key ingredients, from tilapia fillets to panko breadcrumbs. You learned how to prepare, coat, and bake for that perfect crust. I shared tips for keeping it crispy and ideas for variations. Don't forget about proper storage and reheating methods. With these steps, you'll enjoy a tasty meal you can make again and again. Dive into experimenting and delight in your culinary creation!

Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

Enjoy a delicious and healthy dinner with this Crispy Baked Parmesan Tilapia recipe! With perfectly seasoned panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, your tilapia will have a delightful crunch. This easy dish is simple to prepare and takes just 25 minutes from start to finish. Elevate your meals tonight—click through to explore the full recipe and impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering seafood delight!
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Ingredients
  

4 tilapia fillets

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon sweet paprika

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ teaspoon sea salt

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To simplify cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your tilapia.

    In a medium-sized mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly blended, creating a flavorful crust for your fish.

      In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice until well combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the fish.

        Take each tilapia fillet and dip it into the olive oil and lemon mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly for maximum flavor and moisture retention.

          After coating with the oil mixture, transfer each fillet to the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Firmly press the fillets into the mixture to ensure they are well coated on both sides. Place the coated fillets onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking.

            Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The tilapia is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust has achieved a beautiful golden brown color.

              Once baked, remove the tilapia from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors and keep the fish moist.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips: To elevate the dining experience, serve the crispy tilapia on a beautiful plate with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zest. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a lovely pop of color. Pair the dish with steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded meal! Enjoy your culinary creation!