Description
A delicious Parmesan-crusted tilapia recipe featuring a crispy Italian cheese coating and a creamy herb sauce. This versatile dish works with multiple types of white fish and offers dairy-free options.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tilapia fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Italian herbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs (dill, basil, or chives)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian herbs, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry and brush with olive oil on both sides.
- Press each fillet into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides.
- Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden and fish flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F).
- While the fish bakes, prepare the herb sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve the Parmesan-crusted tilapia with the herb sauce drizzled over top and garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Other white fish varieties like cod, haddock, or sole can be substituted for tilapia.
- For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- The fish can be cooked in an air fryer at 380°F for 10-12 minutes for an even crispier crust.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 320
Keywords: tilapia, parmesan crust, white fish, baked fish, healthy dinner, weeknight meal, Italian-American
