Are you looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your dinner routine? Look no further than the delightful taste of Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets. This dish not only adds a delightful crunch but also infuses a rich, cheesy flavor that both kids and adults will love. Furthermore, it’s an excellent source of protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Moreover, the simplicity of preparing these crispy tilapia fillets means you can serve a gourmet dish in no time. With golden-brown crust and tender fish, this recipe is sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible meal that effectively combines convenience with sophistication.
Why Choose Tilapia for Your Meal:
Tilapia is a fantastic choice for a balanced meal, especially when preparing dishes like Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets. This fish is not only mild in flavor but also versatile, making it an ideal canvas for various seasoning and cooking methods. Rich in protein yet low in calories, tilapia is a heart-healthy option that can suit a variety of dietary needs. Additionally, its quick cooking time makes it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.
Moreover, tilapia is often sustainably farmed, ensuring a more environmentally friendly option compared to some other fish. When paired with the savory notes of Parmesan, as in the enticing recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken over Mashed Potatoes, you can create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Furthermore, this fish easily absorbs flavors from herbs and spices, enhancing your culinary creations like Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets.
Ingredients:
To prepare delicious Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets, gather the following ingredients:
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1 drizzle olive oil
These ingredients combine to create a crispy, savory crust that enhances the delicate flavor of tilapia. First, preheat your oven or prepare a skillet to ensure the ideal cooking conditions. As you prepare the fillets, consider serving them with a side dish such as Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges, which perfectly complements the dish. The freshness of parsley and the zing of paprika uplift the overall taste, making this a captivating main course that’s both simple and gourmet.
How to Prepare Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets:
To create delightful Parmesan crusted tilapia fillets, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 2 teaspoons of paprika, and a pinch of salt and ground black pepper to taste. This blend creates a flavorful crust that complements the tilapia beautifully.
Next, place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet and lightly drizzle olive oil over each fillet. Press the Parmesan mixture onto the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The result? Tender, flaky fish with a golden, cheesy crust. For variations on Parmesan flavor, try out recipes like Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni alongside your tilapia. For more detailed steps, check out this external link for Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets:
To achieve perfectly crispy Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets, start by selecting fresh, high-quality fish. Fresh tilapia has a mild flavor and a firm texture that holds up well during cooking. Before breading, pat the fish dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. For an extra crunch, consider double-breading the fillets: dip them in egg wash, coat with Parmesan and breadcrumbs, and repeat the process for a thicker layer.
Ensure your oven is preheated to the proper temperature, around 400°F (200°C), to promote even cooking. For added flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or fresh herbs on the fillets before baking.
If you love Parmesan-infused dishes, try pairing the tilapia with sides like Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges for a complete meal. These combinations can elevate your dining experience and bring out the best in your recipes. Finally, remember not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping, affecting your delightful tilapia crust.
Storage Tips for Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets:
To keep your Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. First, allow the fillets to cool to room temperature after cooking. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps moisture in and prevents any unwanted odors from other foods in your refrigerator. For best results, place the wrapped fillets in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to preserve your tilapia for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. For freezing, consider pre-slicing the fillets for easy servings later on. Place them in a freezer-friendly bag, expelling as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. These can last for two to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
For an equally delightful flavor combination, try serving the tilapia alongside baked garlic Parmesan potato wedges for a full meal.
Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets:
For an exquisite dining experience, serve your Parmesan crusted tilapia fillets alongside a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables. Additionally, try pairing it with garlic Parmesan chicken over mashed potatoes for a flavorful contrast. A zesty lemon wedge enhances the dish, adding brightness while preserving the tilapia’s delicate texture and savory crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the best way to serve Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets?
Serving Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets is best done alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. The lightness of the fish pairs well with a bright lemon vinaigrette or a creamy dill sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tilapia works well for this dish. Just ensure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before applying the Parmesan crust to maintain that desired crispiness.
How do I store leftover Parmesan crusted tilapia?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to two days. Reheat in the oven rather than the microwave for the best texture.
Can I substitute Parmesan cheese in the crust?
Yes, you can use Pecorino cheese as a substitute for Parmesan in the crust. It will provide a similar savory flavor but with a slightly sharper taste.
Is there a healthier option for this dish?
Certainly! For a healthier twist, try using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. Additionally, bake instead of frying to reduce fat content, similar to my recipe for Healthy Chicken Parmesan.
How long does it take to prepare Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets?
Preparation and cooking time for Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets is relatively short, typically taking around 20-30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Print
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets That Will Wow Your Guests!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy a deliciously crispy and flavorful Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets, a perfect dish for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons paprika
salt and ground black pepper to taste
4 tilapia fillets
1 drizzle olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the tilapia fillets on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Coat each fillet with the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Notes
For a variation, you can add lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets, tilapia, seafood, fish recipe, baked fish