Parmesan Crusted Fish: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Parmesan Crusted Fish: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious recipe that will transform your weeknight dinners! Forget bland, boring fish – we’re talking about flaky, tender fillets enveloped in a golden, crispy Parmesan crust that will have everyone begging for seconds.

While the exact origins of crusted fish are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of coating and baking fish has been around for centuries. Cultures worldwide have long used various breading techniques to enhance the flavor and texture of seafood. The beauty of this Parmesan Crusted Fish recipe lies in its modern simplicity and the irresistible flavor combination of savory Parmesan cheese and delicate fish.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the satisfying crunch of the Parmesan crust gives way to the moist, flaky fish underneath. The salty, umami-rich Parmesan perfectly complements the mild flavor of the fish, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience a fish dish that’s both elegant and effortless!

Ingredients:

• 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)

Preparing the Parmesan Crust

Okay, let’s get started! The heart of this recipe is the flavorful Parmesan crust, so we’ll begin by prepping that. This is where all the magic happens, trust me!

1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that each bite of the crust is packed with flavor.
2. Add the wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tang, and the lemon juice brightens everything up.
3. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick and pasty. Don’t worry if it seems a little stiff; it will spread nicely on the fish. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. I usually add a generous pinch of both!

Preparing the Fish

Now that our amazing crust is ready, let’s get the fish prepped. This part is super easy, so don’t stress!

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the fish cooks evenly and the crust gets nice and golden brown.
2. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. I prefer parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Pat the fish dry: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial! Removing excess moisture helps the crust adhere better and prevents the fish from steaming instead of baking.
4. Season the fish: Lightly season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Even though the crust is flavorful, a little seasoning on the fish itself makes a big difference.
5. Place the fish on the baking sheet: Arrange the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each fillet. This allows for even cooking.

Applying the Parmesan Crust and Baking

Alright, the moment we’ve been waiting for! Let’s get that delicious crust onto the fish and into the oven.

1. Spread the Parmesan mixture: Evenly spread the Parmesan cheese mixture over the top of each fish fillet. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the fish with a generous layer of the crust. Don’t be shy! The crust is what makes this dish so special.
2. Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle the fish fillets with olive oil. This helps the crust to brown nicely and adds a touch of richness.
3. Bake the fish: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish fillets. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it will become dry.

Serving and Enjoying

The fish is ready! Now for the best part – serving and enjoying your delicious Parmesan Crusted Fish!

1. Check for doneness: Before removing the fish from the oven, check to make sure it’s cooked through. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it’s not quite done, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
2. Let it rest: Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish.
3. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the Parmesan crust perfectly.
4. Side dish suggestions: This Parmesan Crusted Fish is delicious served with a variety of side dishes. Some of my favorites include roasted vegetables (like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts), a simple salad, rice, or quinoa. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta would also be fantastic!

Tips and Variations

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Type of fish: Feel free to use any type of white fish you prefer. Cod, halibut, tilapia, and haddock all work well. You can even use salmon or another oily fish, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
• Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with another hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• Bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs provide a nice crispy texture, but you can also use regular bread crumbs if that’s what you have.
• Herbs and spices: Get creative with the herbs and spices! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use different dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
• Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the Parmesan crust for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two of minced garlic to the Parmesan crust.
• Make it gluten-free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko bread crumbs.
• Air fryer option: You can also cook this fish in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the fish fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftover Parmesan Crusted Fish, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The crust may not be as crispy after reheating, but it will still be delicious!

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Parmesan Crusted Fish recipe is truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners or even a slightly fancier weekend meal. I know I’ve said it before, but the combination of the flaky, tender fish and the crispy, flavorful Parmesan crust is simply irresistible. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for those who might not typically be huge fans of fish. Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste and texture, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Don’t have cod on hand? No problem! This recipe works beautifully with haddock, tilapia, or even salmon. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fish. And the variations are endless! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture. If you’re looking for a more herbaceous flavor, try incorporating some dried thyme, oregano, or even a little bit of fresh parsley. A squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish brightens everything up and adds a lovely citrusy note. Serving Suggestions: This Parmesan Crusted Fish is fantastic served with a variety of sides. For a light and healthy meal, try it with a simple green salad and some steamed asparagus. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots, are also excellent choices. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of cheesy risotto. A simple lemon butter sauce drizzled over the top elevates the dish even further. Consider these serving variations: * Parmesan Crusted Fish Tacos: Flake the cooked fish and serve it in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, a creamy cilantro-lime sauce, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. * Parmesan Crusted Fish Sandwiches: Place the fish on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce for a satisfying lunch or dinner. * Parmesan Crusted Fish with Pasta: Toss the fish with your favorite pasta shape, some sautéed vegetables, and a light cream sauce for a complete and delicious meal. I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy fish, and it’s a dish that everyone will love. The crispy, cheesy crust combined with the moist, flaky fish is a winning combination every single time. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and give this Parmesan Crusted Fish recipe a try! I’m confident that you’ll be amazed by how easy and delicious it is. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What sides did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll be happy to help. Print