This easy baked lemon Parmesan tilapia is a tasty and light dish! It features delicate fish topped with zesty lemon and cheesy goodness, making dinner feel special without much fuss.
I love how quick it cooks up—just pop it in the oven and relax until it’s ready. And the fish is so nice, flaky, and flavorful! Perfect with a side of veggies or rice! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This fish is mild and cooks quickly. If you can’t find tilapia, you can substitute it with other white fish like cod, haddock, or even catfish. Just adjust the cooking time if using thicker fillets.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you’re without Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. They offer a similar sharpness but check for lactose if you’re sensitive!
Lemon: The lemon adds freshness and brightness to the dish. If lemon is not available, lime can also work, just adjust to taste. You can even use a bit of vinegar for acidity.
How Do I Keep the Fish Moist While Baking?
To keep your tilapia tender and moist, consider these tips:
- Brush the fillets with melted butter or olive oil before adding seasoning. This helps lock in moisture.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking. This traps steam and prevents drying out.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Fish cooks quickly, so check for flakiness at the 12-minute mark.
These simple steps will ensure a deliciously moist and flavorful tilapia every time! Enjoy!
Easy Baked Lemon Parmesan Tilapia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12 to 15 minutes to bake, totaling around 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the fish and getting that cheesy topping just right. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir this well to combine all those delicious flavors!
3. Season the Fish:
Take your tilapia fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice texture when baked. Arrange the fillets in your prepared baking dish and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Topping:
Spoon the buttery lemon mixture evenly over each tilapia fillet, making sure each piece gets coated in that tasty goodness. Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously on top of each fillet. Cheesy and delicious!
5. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork—always a good sign of perfectly cooked tilapia!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and add lemon slices on top if you’d like for decoration. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as rice or steamed veggies.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy baked lemon Parmesan tilapia! It’s a quick dish that impresses everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tilapia for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia! Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as a substitute. Both will provide a similar salty and tangy flavor. Just keep in mind that they may be slightly stronger in taste, so adjust the quantity to your liking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place the fillets in the microwave or oven, and cover them to retain moisture. A splash of lemon juice can help revitalize the flavors!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This baked tilapia pairs wonderfully with light sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the yummy lemon and butter sauce! For a complete meal, you might also add some roasted potatoes or a crunchy slaw.
