Parmesan Crusted Fish: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Meal

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Author: Catherine
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Parmesan Crusted Fish dish served with lemon wedges and herbs

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Parmesan Crusted Fish

Parmesan Crusted Fish is the perfect dish for anyone looking to create a delectable seafood meal that is both simple and satisfying. This delightful recipe transforms your typical fish fillets into a flavorful masterpiece, allowing you to indulge in the crispy, cheesy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, aromatic herbs, and a crunchy panko topping creates a tantalizing crust that will elevate your dining experience. This meal is not only a treat for your palate but also a wholesome option for your family. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Parmesan Crusted Fish recipe shines in many ways. First and foremost, it boasts easy preparation, making it accessible for busy weeknights and weekend gatherings alike. With minimal ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without all the fuss. The simplicity allows you to enjoy cooking, while the flavors satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family. Plus, it’s a quick option; ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for a last-minute dinner.

Whether you choose cod, halibut, or tilapia, each bite of fish hugs the delightful crust, creating a mouthwatering experience. This dish works beautifully for lunch or dinner and is versatile enough to accompany a variety of sides.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Fish

  • 1.5 pounds white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or tilapia work well), about 1 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

The vibrant flavors derived from fresh ingredients will delight your senses. The marriage of the Parmesan cheese and panko creates an irresistible crunch, while the fish remains tender and flaky underneath.

Step-by-Step Directions for Parmesan Crusted Fish

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch any drippings and make cleanup easier.

  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. This mixture will form the crispy topping.

  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk the wet ingredients together: mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic. This will create a creamy base for the topping.

  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

  5. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well. Lightly season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

  6. Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each fillet for even cooking.

  7. Evenly spread the Parmesan cheese mixture over the top of each fish fillet, making sure to cover them generously. Drizzle the fish fillets with olive oil for extra flavor.

  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

  9. Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.

Enjoying the crunch and flavors of the crust combined with perfectly cooked fish will leave everyone in awe of your culinary skills!

Tips & Tricks

  • For added flavor, consider marinating the fish in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for about 30 minutes before preparing.
  • Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Experiment by adding spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper to the topping mix for a kick.
  • If you desire even more crunch, toast the panko bread crumbs in a skillet with a touch of olive oil until golden before mixing them with the other ingredients.
  • To ensure even cooking, select fillets of similar thickness.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Parmesan Crusted Fish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or whip up a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier option, consider a side of mashed potatoes or quinoa, which will complement the fish beautifully.

For a delicious twist, create fish tacos using the leftovers! Just flake the fish and serve it in warm tortillas layered with fresh slaw and avocado. This versatility keeps meals fresh and exciting.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Parmesan Crusted Fish offers around 350 calories, packed with protein from the fish and healthy fats from olive oil. The Parmesan cheese adds a hearty dose of calcium and flavor, but if you’re watching your caloric intake, you can reduce the amount of cheese used without sacrificing too much taste. This dish is rich in omega-3s, making it not only delicious but nutritious!

Storing Tips & Variations for Parmesan Crusted Fish

To enjoy leftovers, store any uneaten Parmesan Crusted Fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that signature crustiness. For those looking to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the fish and topping, then store them separately until ready to bake.

Variations include using different spices or even a mix of cheeses for a unique twist. You could also adapt this recipe for seafood lovers by incorporating shrimp or scallops with the same delicious crust!

Conclusion for Parmesan Crusted Fish

Parmesan Crusted Fish is an effortless entry into gourmet cooking at home, and it’s sure to impress anyone at the dining table. Its appealing combination of flavors and textures makes it a staple recipe worth trying time and again. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and indulge in this delightful dish tonight!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before proceeding with the recipe.

2. What type of white fish is best for this dish?
Cod, halibut, and tilapia are all great options, each offering a mild flavor and firm texture.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for a tasty gluten-free option.

4. How do I know when the fish is done cooking?
The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque. A cooking thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the fish.

5. Can I prepare the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Print

Parmesan Crusted Fish

A delectable seafood meal featuring fish fillets topped with a crispy Parmesan and panko crust, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

  • Author: catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Paleo

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or tilapia), about 1 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic until well combined.
  4. Combine the wet and dry ingredient mixtures, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Spread the Parmesan mixture over each fish fillet and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily and the crust is golden brown.
  8. Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the fish in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. Use gluten-free panko for a gluten-free option.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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