Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets

Culinary Elegance: Perfecting Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets

Indulge your palate in a symphony of flavors with our Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets recipe. Elevate the humble tilapia to a gourmet experience with a crunchy parmesan crust that delivers a delightful burst of savory goodness in every bite. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a home cook eager to impress, this recipe is a gateway to culinary excellence. Join us on a culinary journey where simplicity meets sophistication, creating a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive on the plate.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Crusted Tilapia:

  • 4 tilapia fillets
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Crafting Culinary Perfection:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Parmesan Crust Mixture:

  • In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.

3. Coat the Tilapia Fillets:

  • Dip each tilapia fillet into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are well-coated.

4. Crust the Tilapia:

  • Press each butter-coated tilapia fillet into the Parmesan crust mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides.

5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:

  • Place the coated tilapia fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Bake to Perfection:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown, and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

7. Serve with Lemon Wedges:

  • Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Cook’s Notes

  • Fresh vs. Frozen Tilapia: While fresh tilapia is ideal, high-quality frozen tilapia fillets work well too. Ensure they are properly thawed before use.
  • Choosing Breadcrumbs: Opt for Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.

Variations

Herb-Infused Elegance:

  • Mix chopped fresh herbs like thyme or dill into the Parmesan crust for an herb-infused variation.

Spicy Parmesan Kick:

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the crust mixture for a spicy twist.

Keto Versions

Almond Flour Magic:

  • Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour in the crust mixture for a keto-friendly alternative.

Keto Parmesan Crust:

  • Utilize crushed pork rinds or a blend of almond flour and Parmesan for a low-carb, keto-approved crust.

Low-Carb Versions

Coconut Flour Crunch:

  • Substitute coconut flour for breadcrumbs to reduce the carb content.

Nutty Twist:

  • Add finely chopped nuts (almonds or pecans) to the crust mixture for a delightful crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other fish varieties for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! While tilapia works well, other white fish like cod or halibut can be excellent alternatives.

Q: Can I pan-fry instead of baking?

A: Yes, pan-frying is a great option. Use a non-stick skillet and cook each fillet for 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat.

Q: Is fresh Parmesan necessary, or can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

A: Pre-grated Parmesan works well, but for an extra layer of flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan.

Q: How do I know when the tilapia is done?

A: The tilapia is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), and the crust is golden brown.

Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets exemplify the beauty of simplicity in the culinary world. From the golden crust to the flaky tenderness of the tilapia, every element harmonizes to create a dish that’s both easy to prepare and gourmet in taste. Whether you’re a home cook seeking a quick yet impressive meal or looking for keto and low-carb alternatives to suit your dietary preferences, this recipe welcomes adaptation without compromising on flavor. Elevate your dining experience with the sophistication of Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets – a culinary masterpiece that transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary delight. Let the applause at your dinner table begin!