This Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia is just a dream! With tender fish topped with zesty lemon and a crunchy Parmesan coat, it’s both tasty and simple to make.
Cooking fish can be a little scary, but this recipe makes it fun! I love how the lemon brightens everything up. Pair it with veggies or rice for a fast dinner that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This fish has a mild flavor and flaky texture, making it a great choice for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use other white fish like cod, haddock, or sole.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely nuttiness to the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast, which will give a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Panko Bread Crumbs: These give a lovely crunch. If you’re gluten-free, there are many gluten-free panko options available. Crushed gluten-free crackers or almond meal can work too!
Lemon: Fresh lemon is key for a tangy kick in this dish. If you’re out of lemons, try lime or even white vinegar in a pinch — just use less vinegar as it’s stronger.
How Do I Make Tilapia Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispiness on your tilapia, the coating is essential! The combination of panko and Parmesan creates a crunchy top when baked. Here are some key tips:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated, as this helps with even cooking and browning.
- Brush the tilapia with olive oil and lemon juice before coating to help the mixture stick better.
- Press down firmly when coating to ensure the topping adheres well, providing a nice crust.
Keep an eye on the fish during baking — once it’s golden brown, it’s ready to go! Enjoy your crispy baked tilapia!
Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4-6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: sliced green onions and lemon wedges for garnish
- Mixed greens or salad to serve on the side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and another 12-15 minutes for baking. In just about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure the fish cooks evenly. While that heats up, you can prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, dried parsley, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. This will create a tasty, crunchy coating for your fillets!
3. Prepare the Fillets:
Now, take each tilapia fillet and brush it with olive oil and fresh lemon juice on both sides. This helps the coating stick and gives the fish a delicious flavor. Make sure each fillet is well-coated!
4. Coat the Fish:
Carefully press each fillet into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. This will give it that wonderful, crunchy topping as it bakes. Place the coated fillets on your prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Tilapia:
Your oven should be ready now! Bake the fillets for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is nice and golden brown.
6. Final Touches:
Once baked, remove the tilapia from the oven and carefully transfer the fillets to a serving platter. I like to place them over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh touch!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a finishing touch, sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve with lemon wedges for added flavor. Enjoy immediately, paired with your favorite side dish or a fresh salad!
There you have it! A quick, delicious, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the crisp, cheesy, lemony goodness!
FAQ for Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia
Can I Use Different Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While tilapia is a great choice for this recipe due to its mild flavor, you can also use other white fish like cod, haddock, or sole. Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using thicker fillets.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, to keep the coating crispy.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Parmesan Cheese?
Yes! If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or simply omit the cheese altogether. You may want to increase the herbs and seasonings to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Coating?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to the panko mixture. You could also add lemon juice or zest to the fillets before coating for an additional citrus kick!
