This Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia is a fresh and zesty dish that cooks quickly! With just lemon, parmesan cheese, and a few spices, it’s packed with flavor and super light.
Who knew healthy could taste so good? I love serving it with some veggies, and it’s always a hit—my family thinks I’m a chef! Just don’t tell them how easy it is! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This fish is mild and easy to cook. If you can’t find tilapia, cod, haddock, or even catfish work well as substitutes. Just make sure they are similar in thickness for even cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-grated parmesan is fine too, but it may have added fillers. Nutritional yeast can be a tasty vegan alternative.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest really brighten the dish! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but you’ll miss out on some freshness.
Butter: Melted butter brings richness, but olive oil is a great substitute for a healthier option or if you’re dairy-free. Just use the same amount!
How Do I Get My Fish to Cook Just Right?
Cooking fish can be tricky, but it’s really about timing and temperature. Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F as this gives a nice crispy layer from the Parmesan. If your fillets are thicker, give them an extra minute or two. Always check if the fish flakes easily with a fork. That’s your sign it’s done! If you have a meat thermometer, aim for 145°F in the thickest part of the fish. Always let it sit for a minute or two after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
How to Make Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need roughly 20-25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help ensure your tilapia cooks evenly and gets a delightful golden color.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil, or you can line it with parchment paper to make for easy cleanup later.
3. Rinse and Dry the Fish:
Gently rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water to clean them. Then, using paper towels, pat them dry—this helps the seasoning stick better!
4. Make the Flavorful Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried parsley, dried basil (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mix will add so much flavor!
5. Brush the Mixture on the Fish:
Using a brush or a spoon, evenly cover each tilapia fillet with the buttery mixture. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each fillet. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake the Tilapia:
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the cheese is golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, you can garnish your tilapia with fresh lemon slices if you’d like. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, like steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your flavorful, light, and easy baked lemon Parmesan tilapia! It’s sure to become a favorite!
FAQ About Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia
Can I Use Frozen Tilapia for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia! Just make sure to thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water until thawed. Pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe to ensure the seasoning sticks well.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free option like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the tilapia in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help keep the cheese from getting rubbery.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Try adding sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish along with the tilapia. Just make sure they are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking!
