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This Parmesan tilapia is my go-to when I crave big Italian flavors and minimal fuss on busy weeknights. Coated with a savory Parmesan-herb crust and baked until flaky, it is a lighter take on classic Italian comfort yet looks elegant enough to serve guests.
I first whipped this up for a quick dinner when I had surprise company my friends thought I had worked for hours yet everything happened in under 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Egg: One large egg helps the coating stick for the ultimate crispy crust Use fresh and check for no cracks before buying
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan forms a golden crust and adds nutty depth Go for real Parmigiano Reggiano for the best flavor and melt
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings instant Italian flair A good quality blend with visible green and no clumping is best
- Crushed red pepper flakes: These add gentle heat and a little zing Use less if you prefer mild flavor
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked if possible for punchy aroma and sharpness
- Tilapia fillets: Mild and flaky white fish that cooks fast and takes on the cheesy crust well Look for odorless firm fillets no fishy smell
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Egg Dip:
- Place the beaten egg in a shallow bowl Swirl the bowl gently to spread the egg out for even dipping If multiple fillets will not fit at once dip one at a time to prevent sticking
- Mix Coating:
- In a separate shallow bowl combine Parmesan cheese Italian seasoning crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper Stir well with a fork until the mixture looks even and clump free
- Coat the Fish:
- Take a tilapia fillet and dip it fully in the egg mixture Flip to ensure both sides are completely covered Let a little excess drip off Move the fillet directly to the Parmesan mixture and press gently Turning and patting ensures the crust fully sticks and covers all surfaces Repeat for each fillet
- Prepare to Bake:
- Place all coated fillets on a large baking pan Mist or spray the pan with nonstick spray so the fish lifts easily when done Arrange fillets with a little space between so air can crisp the coating
- Bake Until Perfect:
- Put the pan in the preheated oven at four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit Bake for ten to fifteen minutes Check at ten minutes Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the coating looks golden Let rest a minute before serving
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The Parmesan is my absolute favorite part I remember my daughter sneaking the crispy bits off the baking pan before dinner was even served It is always the first thing to disappear at our table
Storage Tips
Leftover tilapia keeps well for up to two days in the fridge Place in an airtight container and layer with a paper towel underneath to catch moisture For a crisp finish reheat under the broiler for two minutes instead of microwaving
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap tilapia with cod or haddock if you cannot find fresh tilapia Just make sure the fillets are of similar thickness to avoid overcooking If Parmesan is not available finely grated Pecorino works and you can adjust the pepper flakes to be milder or hotter
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy baked tilapia pairs beautifully with garlicky rice roasted asparagus or lemony green beans Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and scatter extra herbs over the top for a restaurant look For a more filling meal serve with buttered pasta or mashed potatoes
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Cultural and Historical Context
Crispy cheese crusted fish is inspired by classic Italian trattoria preparations where herbs and hard cheeses elevate simple seafood These fast baked dishes became dinner staples in many Italian immigrant homes for their affordability and flavor
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you achieve a crispy Parmesan coating on tilapia?
Ensure each fillet is fully coated in beaten egg before pressing into the Parmesan and herb mixture. This helps the coating adhere and become golden during baking.
- → Can I substitute another fish for tilapia?
Yes, mild white fish like cod or sole work well and will absorb the same Italian flavors and textures.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
Steamed asparagus, rice, or a simple salad complement the savory fish and create a balanced meal.
- → Is it possible to adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Use more or less crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- → How can I tell when the fish is cooked through?
The fillets should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque all the way through, typically after 10-15 minutes of baking.