Crispy Baked Parmesan Fish Fillets
Savor the delightful flavors of Crispy Baked Parmesan Fish Fillets, a healthier and equally satisfying alternative to traditional fried fish. This recipe features meaty fish fillets coated in a savory blend of dry breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, all baked to golden perfection. The secret to achieving a wonderful crunch without frying lies in the high-temperature baking, and brushing the fillets with melted butter (or a low-fat substitute) enhances flavor while keeping the fish moist and tender. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Enjoy a meal that's both nutritious and delicious with every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
dry breadcrumbs
1/3 cup (Plain or seasoned)
grated parmesan cheese
2-4 tablespoons (Finely grated)
paprika
1-2 tablespoons (Sweet or smoked, depending on preference)
dried basil
2 teaspoons (Dried)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (Optional)
salt
3/4 teaspoon (To taste, seasoned salt recommended)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly ground, or substitute with lemon pepper)
fish fillet
1-2 lbs (Your choice, such as cod, tilapia, or salmon)
butter
1/4 cup (Melted, or use healthy butter alternative)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and position the bottom oven rack accordingly.
2
Lightly grease a shallow baking dish large enough to accommodate all fillets without crowding.
3
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the dry breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, paprika, dried basil, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black or lemon pepper until evenly mixed.
4
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the fillets generously with melted butter (or the egg white mixture for a low-fat option).
5
Carefully dip each buttered fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated on all sides.
6
Place the coated fillets in the greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced out properly to allow even cooking.
7
Bake the fish fillets uncovered in the preheated oven for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the coating is golden brown.
8
Remove from the oven and let rest for a minute before serving. Enjoy your crispy baked fish fillets with a squeeze of fresh lemon!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish described in this recipe?
The dish is Crispy Baked Parmesan Fish Fillets, which is a healthier alternative to fried fish.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 500 degrees Fahrenheit or 260 degrees Celsius.
How long do the fish fillets need to bake?
The fillets should bake for approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
What types of fish can I use for this recipe?
You can use meaty fish fillets such as cod, tilapia, or salmon.
How can I make this recipe low-fat?
To make it low-fat, use an egg white mixture to coat the fillets instead of melted butter.
What ingredients are in the breading mixture?
The breading contains dry breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, paprika, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, lightly grease a shallow baking dish large enough to hold the fillets without crowding.
Why should I pat the fish dry with paper towels?
Patting the fish dry helps the butter and breadcrumb coating adhere better to the fillets.
How do I apply the butter to the fish?
Brush both sides of the fillets generously with melted butter or a healthy alternative.
Is garlic powder mandatory for this recipe?
No, garlic powder is an optional ingredient in the breading mix.
What kind of breadcrumbs are best?
You can use 1/3 cup of either plain or seasoned dry breadcrumbs.
How do I know when the fish is done?
The fish is finished when it flakes easily with a fork and the coating is golden brown.
Can I substitute black pepper for something else?
Yes, you can use lemon pepper as a substitute for black pepper.
Is this dish considered a healthy eating option?
Yes, it is tagged for healthy eating and is a baked, high-protein seafood recipe.
Where should the oven rack be positioned?
Position the bottom oven rack accordingly before preheating the oven.
Should I cover the fish while it bakes?
No, bake the fish fillets uncovered to ensure the coating becomes crispy.
How much parmesan cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 2 to 4 tablespoons of finely grated parmesan cheese.
What type of paprika should I use?
You can use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your personal preference.
Is this a high-protein meal?
Yes, the recipe is categorized as high protein.
Can I use a butter alternative?
Yes, a low-fat or healthy butter substitute can be used for brushing the fillets.
How much salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests 3/4 teaspoon of salt, with seasoned salt recommended.
How should the fillets be arranged in the dish?
Ensure they are spaced out properly in the greased dish to allow for even cooking.
What is the secret to the crunch in this recipe?
The secret is high-temperature baking and coating the fish in butter or egg whites before breading.
Does the recipe use fresh or dried basil?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 teaspoons of dried basil.
Should the fish rest after cooking?
Yes, let the fillets rest for one minute after removing them from the oven.
What are good serving suggestions for this fish?
It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Is this a good recipe for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed to be a quick and easy dinner option.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 9 main ingredients listed for this fish recipe.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 to 2 lbs of fish fillets, though specific serving sizes are not listed.
What should the breading texture look like when finished?
The breadcrumb and parmesan coating should be golden brown and crispy.