Lemon-Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
This Lemon-Parmesan Crusted Tilapia is a delightful dish that combines the light, flaky texture of tilapia with a rich, flavorful parmesan topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. The bright notes of lemon juice and aromatic herbs elevate the fish, while the broiled parmesan crust adds a crunchy finish. Serve alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
mayonnaise
3 tablespoons (none)
dried basil
1/4 teaspoon (none)
onion powder
1/8 teaspoon (none)
tilapia fillets
2 lbs (thawed if frozen)
butter
1/4 cup (softened)
fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons (juiced)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2
In a small mixing bowl, combine the fresh grated parmesan cheese, softened butter, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, dried basil, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated and creamy.
3
Lay the tilapia fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking pan. Season the fillets with a little salt and pepper to taste.
4
Bake the tilapia in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5
Remove the baking pan from the oven. Carefully spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top side of each fillet.
6
Return the pan to the oven and switch to broil. Broil the fillets for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
7
Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, then serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein used in this recipe is 2 lbs of tilapia fillets.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This Lemon-Parmesan Crusted Tilapia recipe makes 8 servings.
What ingredients are in the parmesan topping mixture?
The topping consists of fresh grated parmesan cheese, softened butter, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, dried basil, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
How long should the tilapia be baked initially?
The tilapia should be baked for 20 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the cooked tilapia?
The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
How do you know when the tilapia is cooked through?
The tilapia is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
When should the cheese mixture be applied to the fish?
The cheese mixture should be spread evenly over the top of each fillet after the initial baking period is complete.
How long should the fish be broiled?
Broil the fillets for an additional 2 minutes after adding the topping, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
What preparation is needed for the baking pan?
Grease the baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent the fish from sticking.
Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure the tilapia fillets are thawed before you begin preparation.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the crust?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 cup of fresh grated parmesan cheese.
How much butter is required for the topping?
You will need 1/4 cup of softened butter.
What role does mayonnaise play in the recipe?
Three tablespoons of mayonnaise are used to create a creamy base for the parmesan topping.
How much lemon juice is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
What dried herbs are included?
The recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil.
Is there any onion in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of onion powder.
Should the tilapia be seasoned before baking?
Yes, season the fillets with a little salt and pepper to taste before placing them in the oven.
What type of meal is this recipe suitable for?
It is suitable for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy and satisfying meal, and it is tagged as low carb.
What are some suggested side dishes for this tilapia?
It is recommended to serve the tilapia alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
How should the fish be arranged on the pan?
The tilapia fillets should be laid out in a single layer on the prepared baking pan.
What precautions should be taken during the broiling step?
Keep a close eye on the fish while broiling to prevent the cheese topping from burning.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 9 ingredients: parmesan, mayonnaise, dried basil, onion powder, tilapia, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
What is the texture of the topping?
The topping is creamy when mixed and becomes a crunchy, golden brown crust after broiling.
Do I need fresh lemon for this recipe?
The recipe calls for fresh lemon juice, so using a fresh lemon is recommended.
Is this a fast recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with simple steps for preparation.
How long should the fish cool before serving?
It is recommended to let the fish cool for about one minute after removing it from the oven.
What category of food does this fall into?
This falls into the seafood and healthy dinner categories.
Can I substitute other fish for tilapia?
While this recipe specifically uses tilapia, the Lemon-Parmesan crust technique could potentially be used on other light, flaky white fish.