Name: Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets (fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry); 1 tablespoon olive oil (avoid extra virgin olive oil); 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning; ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup diced green onions (optional); 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 70 reviews

If you’re looking for a delightful, quick, and utterly satisfying seafood dish, this Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe is an absolute winner. The crispy, golden Parmesan crust pairs beautifully with tender, flaky tilapia, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal effort, delivering a gourmet feel without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white scalloped plate with two main layers arranged side by side: a golden-brown cooked chicken fillet sprinkled with chopped green herbs on the left, and a heap of fluffy white rice on the right. A bright yellow lemon half rests on the top right edge of the rice. On the plate’s left side, a silver fork is partially inserted into the rice near the chicken. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a folded white cloth featuring thin black stripes to the right of the plate. The lighting is bright and natural. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each add something special. Whether it’s the sharp bite of Parmesan cheese, the zesty brightness of lemon pepper, or the vibrant splash of green onions, every component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets: Fresh or thawed frozen tilapia works best for a tender, flaky base.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for that crisp and savory crust that defines the dish.
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: Adds a zesty, bright kick that complements the mild fish.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
1 tablespoon olive oil (not EVOO): Helps the crust stick and ensures a lovely golden-brown finish.
¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for extra cheesy goodness and crispiness.
¼ cup diced green onions (optional): Adds a mild onion flavor and a fresh crunch as garnish.
1 lemon (cut into wedges): Perfect for squeezing over before eating to brighten every bite.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe

The image shows several large, pale pink fish fillets laid side by side on a white marbled surface with a sheet underneath. A woman's hand is gently spreading something over the fillets, possibly oil, creating a slight shine on the smooth, moist texture of the fish. The fillets have a smooth and soft appearance with faint lines and a subtle shine, spreading evenly across the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Fish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle your tilapia filets with olive oil to ensure they stay moist while baking and help the cheese coating adhere perfectly.

Step 2: Mix the Parmesan Crust

Combine the freshly grated Parmesan, lemon pepper seasoning, chopped parsley, and kosher salt in a bowl. This flavorful blend will be the star of your crust, marrying the salty tang of cheese with zesty lemon pepper and the fresh herbs.

Step 3: Coat the Tilapia

Press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto each tilapia filet using your fingers so it sticks well over the fish. This step ensures a thick, crispy crust that stays put after baking. Then, sprinkle a light layer of shredded Parmesan on top for extra texture and flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated filets on the baking sheet and bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes, just until the fish turns opaque at its thickest part. This quick baking keeps the tilapia juicy while starting to set the crust beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with a Broil for Crispiness

Switch your oven to broil and cook the fish for an additional 5 minutes to achieve that golden, slightly crispy Parmesan crust everyone will love. Keep a close eye so the cheese doesn’t burn — you want a delicate crunch, not char.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe

Garnishes

Once out of the oven, top your tilapia with diced green onions for a fresh, mild bite and beautifully vibrant color. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the top finishes the dish with a bright citrus note that perfectly balances the rich crust.

Side Dishes

This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a light garden salad. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or lemon-herb rice can soak up the delicious crusty flavors and round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the tilapia atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette, or plate it alongside colorful roasted carrots and cherry tomatoes. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for that restaurant-quality look that’s easy to achieve at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The crust may soften a bit, but the flavors will remain delicious for up to two days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. For best taste and texture, consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the tilapia on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain the crispiness of the crust better than the microwave, which can make it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other fish instead of tilapia?

Absolutely! This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe works wonderfully with other mild white fish like cod, haddock, or snapper. Just adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the filets.

Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-grated varieties because it has less anti-caking agents. Using fresh cheese enhances both flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely. Since this recipe doesn’t call for breadcrumbs, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just check that your lemon pepper seasoning does not contain any gluten additives.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen tilapia?

The safest way is to thaw frozen tilapia in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, place the sealed fish in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.

How do I prevent the crust from sticking to the baking sheet?

Lining your baking sheet with foil, parchment paper, or a silicone mat and lightly oiling it can help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little elegance and a lot of flavor to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. Its crispy crust and delicate fish will soon become one of your go-to recipes whenever you crave something quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!