This Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia is a quick and tasty dish! With light, flaky fish covered in zesty lemon and cheesy goodness, it’s a dinner winner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This fish is mild and flaky, perfect for this dish. If tilapia isn’t available, you can use other white fish like cod, haddock, or even salmon for a richer flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you need a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary a bit.
Lemon: Fresh lemons brighten up the dish. If you don’t have lemons, try bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always better for taste. Lime could also work in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice kick. If you’re short on fresh garlic, use garlic powder instead, but reduce the amount to about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do I Make Sure the Fish Flakes Perfectly?
Getting that flaky texture just right is key for a delicious tilapia! Here are tips to achieve perfect results:
- Don’t overcook the tilapia! Keep an eye on it after 12 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Using a meat thermometer is a great way to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps it retain moisture and enhances the flavor.
Enjoy cooking this Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia, and I hope it turns out perfectly for you!
Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4-6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of baking time, making it ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Lemon Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
3. Prepare the Tilapia Fillets:
Take your tilapia fillets and place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overlapping for even cooking.
4. Add the Flavor:
Brush each tilapia fillet evenly with the lemon butter mixture. Use a spoon if needed to get all that garlicky goodness onto the fish.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan:
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each fillet. This will give them a lovely cheesy crust when baked.
6. Bake the Tilapia:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the fish; it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and serve immediately. Adding some lemon wedges on the side makes it even more refreshing!
Enjoy your light, flavorful Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tilapia for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen tilapia fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely before baking. The best way to thaw them is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the sealed fillets in cold water for about 30 minutes until thawed.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even cheddar for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which will add a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftover Tilapia?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to dry out the fish. Adding a splash of lemon juice while reheating can help keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the baking dish with the tilapia. Just make sure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Adjust the baking time accordingly if needed!
