Are you looking to transform ordinary tilapia into a restaurant-worthy dinner?
You’ll love how a crispy Parmesan crust elevates this mild fish into something truly special.
With nine different variations waiting for you to discover, your weeknight meals won’t fall into the same old routine.
From classic herb combinations to unexpected flavor twists like coconut and mango, these recipes strike the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent.
Let’s explore these simple yet impressive dishes that might just become your new favorites.
Classic Parmesan and Herb Crusted Tilapia
This delectable Parmesan and herb crusted tilapia combines crispy texture with savory flavors for a quick and satisfying meal. The fish remains tender inside while the golden crust delivers a perfect crunch with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Place the beaten eggs in a separate shallow dish.
Step 5: Dip each tilapia fillet in the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 6: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the crusted tilapia fillets and cook for 2 minutes until the bottom side is golden brown.
Step 7: Carefully flip the fillets and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Calcium: 250mg
Spicy Cajun Parmesan Tilapia Fillets
This Spicy Cajun Parmesan Tilapia combines the earthy heat of Cajun seasoning with the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a crust that’s both crispy and full of flavor.
The mild tilapia serves as the perfect canvas for these bold flavors, resulting in a dish that’s impressive enough for guests but simple enough for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
Step 5: Dip each tilapia fillet into the olive oil mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
Step 6: Press each fillet into the Parmesan-Cajun mixture, coating both sides thoroughly and pressing gently to adhere.
Step 7: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each fillet.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
Step 9: If you want an extra crispy crust, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 10: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 310 per serving
- Protein: 37g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Calcium: 260mg
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Crusted Tilapia is a delightful dish that combines the mild flavor of tilapia with a crispy, savory parmesan crust. Enhanced with bright lemon and aromatic garlic, this dish makes for an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: In a separate small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Brush the olive oil mixture over each tilapia fillet, making sure to coat both sides.
Step 6: Press the parmesan mixture onto the top side of each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
Step 8: If desired, broil for the last 1-2 minutes to get a more golden crust, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 9: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 280 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Calcium: 250mg
Mediterranean Olive and Parmesan Tilapia
This Mediterranean-inspired parmesan crusted tilapia combines the salty richness of olives with the nutty flavor of parmesan cheese. The vibrant herbs and lemon add brightness to this light yet satisfying dish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup green olives, pitted and chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, chopped olives, garlic, oregano, basil, paprika, and half of the chopped parsley. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix well to form a crumbly topping.
Step 3: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each fillet with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice.
Step 4: Season the fillets with salt and pepper to taste, then press the Parmesan and olive mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet.
Step 5: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with the remaining fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Calcium: 25% DV
Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Tilapia
This Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Tilapia delivers the perfect balance of flaky fish and crunchy coating without the hassle of deep frying.
Ready in just minutes, this healthier version maintains all the flavor while using minimal oil, making it an ideal quick weeknight dinner option for the family.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4-6 oz each)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow bowl, combine parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Dip each tilapia fillet into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture on both sides.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Step 8: Cook for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 9: Carefully remove from the air fryer, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Cholesterol: 175mg
- Calcium: 320mg
Panko-Parmesan Crusted Tilapia With Honey Mustard
This delightful Panko-Parmesan Crusted Tilapia offers the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness. The golden panko breadcrumb coating creates a satisfying crunch, while the honey mustard adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the mild fish perfectly. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish makes an excellent weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt on both sides.
Step 4: In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
Step 5: Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press into the panko-Parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Step 6: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil to help with browning.
Step 7: Bake for 15-18 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: While the fish is baking, prepare the honey mustard sauce by whisking together honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 9: Once the fish is done, remove from the oven and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges and honey mustard sauce on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Italian Seasoned Parmesan Tilapia With Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Italian-inspired parmesan crusted tilapia brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. The combination of crispy parmesan coating with the sweet tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Beat eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 3: Dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then press into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the coated fillets in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: While the fish is cooking, in a small saucepan, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 6: Remove fish from the pan and place on a serving plate. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and top with the sun-dried tomato mixture.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Calcium: 25% DV
Coconut Parmesan Crusted Tilapia With Mango Salsa
This tropical-inspired Coconut Parmesan Crusted Tilapia offers a delightful balance of crispy texture and sweet flavors. The crunchy coconut-parmesan coating creates a golden crust that perfectly complements the delicate fish, while the fresh mango salsa adds a vibrant, invigorating element that transforms this dish into a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the mango salsa:
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Dip each fillet into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the coconut-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tilapia fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: While the fish is cooking, prepare the mango salsa by combining mangoes, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
Season with salt and mix well.
Step 6: Transfer the cooked tilapia to serving plates and top generously with the fresh mango salsa.
Step 7: Serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick if desired.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 385 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Calcium: 15% DV
Gluten-Free Almond and Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
This gluten-free almond and Parmesan crusted tilapia offers a delicious alternative to traditional breadcrumb coatings. The combination of ground almonds and Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the fish tender and moist. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and set aside.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Step 3: Place the beaten eggs in a separate shallow dish.
Step 4: Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
Step 5: Coat the egg-dipped fillets in the almond-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ascertain the coating adheres.
Step 6: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
Step 7: Carefully place the coated fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Transfer the cooked fish to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 9: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Final Thoughts
You’ve now commenced on a flavorful journey through these heavenly Parmesan tilapia creations.
They’ll transform your ordinary dinner into moments of pure culinary bliss.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening, these recipes offer a delicate balance of comfort and sophistication.
Don’t wait to bring these oceanic treasures to your table—your taste buds will thank you for this crispy, cheesy adventure.
