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For Parmesan Crusted Tilapia, you need a few simple items. Here’s what you’ll need: - 4 tilapia fillets - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - 1 lemon, sliced (for serving) These ingredients come together to create a light and crispy dish. Tilapia is a mild fish that pairs well with the rich flavor of Parmesan. The panko adds a nice crunch. Garlic powder and paprika give the dish a subtle kick. When preparing, make sure to use fresh parsley for garnish. It adds color and freshness. Lemon slices are great for serving. They brighten up the dish with a splash of acidity. You can find the Full Recipe to guide you through the cooking process. This recipe makes a delightful dinner that is sure to impress. - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. - In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to combine all dry ingredients. This mixture adds flavor and crunch. - Pat each tilapia fillet dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better. - Brush both sides of each fillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This keeps the fish moist and helps the crust form. - Dip the oiled tilapia fillets into the Parmesan and panko mixture. Press gently to ensure the crust adheres well. Make sure both sides are coated evenly. - Place the crusted tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier. - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The fish is done when it is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy. - Once done, remove the fillets from the oven and let them rest for a minute. This allows the juices to settle before serving. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your cooking! - Ensuring the coating sticks: To make the crust stick well, dry the tilapia fillets with paper towels. This removes excess moisture. Then, brush each fillet with olive oil. This step helps the coating adhere better. - Optimal baking methods: Bake the fillets on a parchment-lined sheet. This keeps the crust from sticking and helps your fish cook evenly. Set your oven to 400°F. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. - What to pair with Parmesan Crusted Tilapia: This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. Rice or quinoa also makes a great side. These choices add color and nutrients to your meal. - Garnish ideas: For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Add lemon slices on the side. A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors. - Overview of calories and nutrients per serving: Each serving contains around 300 calories. You get protein from tilapia and calcium from Parmesan. - Health benefits of tilapia: Tilapia is low in calories and high in protein. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating tilapia can support heart health and aid in muscle growth. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of Parmesan Crusted Tilapia by swapping the cheese. Try mozzarella or cheddar if you want something different. These cheeses melt well and add a new taste. If you need a gluten-free option, use ground almonds or crushed cornflakes instead of panko breadcrumbs. Both options give a nice crunch without gluten. To spice things up, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cheese mix. A little heat makes the dish exciting. You can also use lemon zest for a fresh flavor kick. Incorporating herbs like thyme or basil adds freshness. Sprinkle chopped basil on top after baking. It gives the dish a garden-like aroma and taste. Pan-frying gives a crispy crust. Heat oil in a skillet and cook the fillets for a few minutes on each side. This method is quick and can be done in under ten minutes. Baking is another great choice. It’s easy and healthier. The recipe I shared uses baking at 400°F for a golden crust. If you want a smoky flavor, try grilling the tilapia. Place it on a grill for a few minutes on each side. This method seals in the juices and adds a charred taste. Store leftover Parmesan crusted tilapia in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This keeps it fresh. Ideally, eat leftovers within two days for the best taste. The fish may last up to three days, but quality may decline. To reheat, use an oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tilapia on a baking sheet. Warm it for about 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the crust crispy. You can also use a skillet. Heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish soggy. Enjoy your delicious Parmesan crusted tilapia! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. How long does it take to cook tilapia? Tilapia cooks quickly. It takes about 12 to 15 minutes in a hot oven. This makes it a great choice for busy weeknights. The fish will turn flaky when it’s done. Can I use frozen tilapia fillets? Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it first. This helps the coating stick better. What sides go well with Parmesan Crusted Tilapia? I love pairing this dish with steamed veggies. Roasted potatoes or a fresh salad are great too. Lemon wedges add a nice touch! How do I make sure the tilapia is flaky? To ensure flaky tilapia, do not overcook it. Use a fork to check for doneness. The fish should easily flake apart when ready. Can I make this recipe in advance? You can prep the tilapia early. Coat it and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just bake it when you are ready to eat! Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to swap Parmesan with other cheeses. Cheddar or mozzarella works well too. Just remember that the flavor will change. Is panko essential for this recipe? Panko adds a nice crunch, but it is not essential. You can use regular breadcrumbs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture might be different. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. This blog post covers everything you need for making Parmesan Crusted Tilapia. We discussed the simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I shared variations to switch things up and how to store your leftovers. Remember, this dish is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. Your friends and family will love it! With these insights, you can easily recreate this meal that brings joy to the table. Enjoy your cooking and delight in every bite!

Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

Discover the deliciousness of Parmesan Crusted Tilapia, a quick and easy recipe perfect for any night of the week! With a crispy, cheesy crust and tender fish, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's the ultimate weeknight dinner. Get all the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this flavorful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
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Ingredients
  

4 tilapia fillets

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 lemon, sliced (for serving)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

    In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all dry ingredients.

      Pat each tilapia fillet dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.

        Dip the oiled tilapia fillets into the Parmesan and panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crust to the fish. Ensure both sides are coated.

          Place the crusted tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil.

            Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the tilapia is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.

              Once done, remove the fillets from the oven and let them rest for a minute.

                Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices on the side for squeezing over the top.

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