Easy Broiled Tilapia Parmesan Recipe to Try Tonight

If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful meal that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with tender fish, this Broiled Tilapia Parmesan recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect dinner idea that transforms humble tilapia into a golden, savory delight topped with parmesan cheese and herbs. Whether you are new to cooking fish or love easy, wholesome meals, this recipe promises a satisfying bite every time without fuss or fancy ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: This dish is ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and light: Tilapia is a lean protein, and broiling uses less oil, keeping it nutritious.
• Deliciously crispy: The parmesan topping forms a crunchy crust that adds amazing texture.
• Family-friendly flavors: Mild fish paired with cheese and herbs appeals to all ages.
• Minimal cleanup: One broiler pan and you’re done—meaning more time to enjoy dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Broiled Tilapia Parmesan lies in how these straightforward ingredients work together to create a burst of flavor and texture: flaky fish, sharp parmesan, and bright seasonings.

• Tilapia fillets: Fresh or thawed frozen fillets for a tender, mild base.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for that authentic crisp topping.
• Bread crumbs: Adds crunch and helps hold the topping in place.
• Garlic powder: For a subtle savory kick that complements the cheese.
• Dried Italian herbs: Such as oregano and basil, providing aromatic depth.
• Olive oil: Helps create a golden finish and brings richness without heaviness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance the overall flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice (optional): Adds a refreshing brightness when drizzled on top.

Variations for Broiled Tilapia Parmesan

Feel free to get creative with the Broiled Tilapia Parmesan by tweaking the ingredients or adding your own twist to suit dietary needs and taste preferences.

• Herb swap: Use fresh parsley, thyme, or dill instead of dried herbs for a vibrant taste.
• Cheese alternatives: Try asiago or pecorino romano for a different cheesy profile.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne powder for a subtle heat.
• Gluten-free: Replace bread crumbs with crushed nuts or gluten-free crumbs without losing texture.
• Lemon zest topping: Mix zest into the breadcrumb mixture for added citrus aroma.

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How to Make Broiled Tilapia Parmesan

Step 1: Preheat the Broiler and Prepare Pan

Set your oven’s broiler to high and place the rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping Mixture

In a bowl, combine grated parmesan, bread crumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil and toss until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly.

Step 3: Season the Tilapia Fillets

Pat the tilapia dry and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. This step ensures the fish remains flavorful beyond just the topping.

Step 4: Apply the Parmesan Topping

Spoon the parmesan crumb mixture evenly over the top of each tilapia fillet, pressing gently so it adheres well to the surface.

Step 5: Broil Until Golden

Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: Optional Fresh Lemon Finish

Give a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked fillets for a fresh, tangy brightness that complements the richness.

Pro Tips for Making Broiled Tilapia Parmesan

• Use fresh parmesan: It melts and crisps better than pre-grated versions.
• Don’t overcook: Fish cooks quickly; watch closely to prevent dryness.
• Pat dry fish: Removing excess moisture helps the topping stick perfectly.
• Even topping layer: Press the crumb mixture gently so it forms a nice crust.
• Broiler position matters: Closer to the heat source for crispier topping, but keep an eye to avoid burning.

How to Serve Broiled Tilapia Parmesan

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil scattered on top brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. A lemon wedge adds a lovely pop of acidity at the table.

Side Dishes

This crispy, cheesy fish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, garlic roasted potatoes, or a light salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Broiled Tilapia Parmesan on a bed of saffron rice or quinoa for a colorful, hearty plate that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in minutes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover tilapia in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crust may soften but will still taste delicious.

Freezing

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze cooked Broiled Tilapia Parmesan wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to help the topping regain some crunch without drying out the fish.

FAQs

Can I use other fish besides tilapia for this recipe?

Absolutely! White, flaky fish like cod, haddock, or sole work well with the parmesan topping and broiling method.

Is broiling healthier than frying?

Yes, broiling uses less oil, making the fish lighter and lower in fat while still achieving a crispy crust.

Can I make the topping ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the parmesan breadcrumb mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, ready to sprinkle on before broiling.

What if I don’t have a broiler on my oven?

You can bake the fish at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes, though it won’t crisp up quite as much as broiling.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts for a safe and tasty alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Broiled Tilapia Parmesan recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a simple fish dinner with big flavors and minimal effort. It’s perfect for anyone who loves quick cooking and a satisfying, crispy bite. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!

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