This Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia is a fresh and zesty dish that cooks quickly. With just a handful of ingredients, it features tender fish topped with golden, cheesy goodness!
You’ll love how the lemon brightens the flavor while the parmesan adds a nice crunch. I whip this up on busy nights and serve it with rice or veggies. It’s a win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This mild white fish is perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find tilapia, you can substitute with cod, haddock, or even salmon. Just note that cooking times may vary with different fish.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness, but you can swap it for olive oil or a dairy-free spread for a lighter option or to make it dairy-free.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan provides a lovely flavor and texture. If you don’t have it, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Italian-style Breadcrumbs: These add crunch. You can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs if you don’t have the seasoned kind available. Panko breadcrumbs work well too!
How Can I Make Sure My Tilapia is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tilapia just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure your fish comes out tender and flavorful:
- Preheat your oven well to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; give each fillet room for the heat to circulate.
- Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark. Tilapia is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.
- For extra flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice right before serving!
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you can have it ready in around 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when you put your fish in. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the Tilapia:
Take your tilapia fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely in the oven. Place the fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Flavorful Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This mixture will give your fish a burst of flavor! Brush this mixture evenly over each tilapia fillet, making sure they’re well-coated.
4. Add the Topping:
In another small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. This is what makes your tilapia crispy and tasty! Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the coated fillets.
5. Bake the Tilapia:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the tilapia is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your delicious tilapia immediately with lemon wedges on the side!
Enjoy your flavorful, easy baked lemon Parmesan tilapia! It’s a fantastic dish that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tilapia for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen tilapia completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw it quickly by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, alternatives like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can work in a pinch. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan Parmesan or a mixture of ground nuts and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the fish.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the tilapia with the butter and lemon mixture earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply add the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed. This is a great way to save time on busy nights!
