Name: Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley; 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 4 tilapia fillets (about 4 oz each); 1 lemon, cut into wedges

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Flaky tilapia fillets coated in a golden, cheesy crust with hints of paprika and fresh parsley — a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or when I’m hosting dinner guests. This recipe delivers a satisfying crunch with a burst of lemony freshness that keeps the flavors light and vibrant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and fast this Parmesan Crusted Tilapia comes together. It takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish, and the result is a crispy, cheesy coating that complements the mild fish perfectly. It’s a reliable go-to when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s elegant enough to serve for company. Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons paprika
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
4 tilapia fillets (about 4 oz each)
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
In a shallow bowl, I mix together the Parmesan, paprika, parsley, and salt.
I drizzle the tilapia fillets with olive oil, then dredge each piece in the cheese mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
I place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
I bake them for 10–12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
I serve the tilapia warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 214 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch things up by using cod or haddock instead of tilapia. For a spicy kick, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. If I want a richer crust, I mix in a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs. Fresh dill or basil also works beautifully in place of parsley.

Storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place the fillets on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350ºF oven for about 8–10 minutes until heated through. I avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

How do I know when tilapia is cooked?

I check if the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque all the way through. That’s a clear sign it’s done.

Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?

Yes, but I make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating to ensure the crust sticks properly.

What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Tilapia?

I like pairing it with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I can prep the cheese coating in advance and store it in the fridge until I’m ready to cook.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I stick to the ingredients listed, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Tilapia has become one of my favorite quick meals. It’s flavorful, fuss-free, and always gets compliments. Whether I’m cooking for myself or a crowd, I know I can count on this recipe to deliver satisfying results every time.