Introduction: Craving a Quick, Flavorful Fish Dish That’s Healthy and Delicious?
Ever wanted to whip up a restaurant-quality seafood dish in under 15 minutes? Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is your answer! This easy recipe transforms mild tilapia fillets into a crispy, cheesy, and tangy delight with a creamy Parmesan topping. Perfect for busy weeknights, special dinners, or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, it’s sure to impress. Ready to make a healthy, mouthwatering meal that’s as simple as it is tasty? Let’s dive into this quick, crowd-pleasing recipe!
Overview: Why Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is Special
Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is a fast, nutritious dish that combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with a rich, savory Parmesan crust. It’s a low-effort recipe with high-reward results. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Time Requirement: About 5 minutes prep, 6 minutes cooking, for a total of around 11 minutes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a quick, flavorful meal.
- Why It’s Unique: The creamy Parmesan topping, spiked with lemon juice and spices, creates a golden, bubbly crust under the broiler. Broiling cooks the fish quickly, keeping it tender and flaky while adding a crispy finish.
This recipe is healthy (high in protein, low in carbs), quick to prep, and versatile for any occasion. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 8 and uses simple ingredients to create a bold, cheesy dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Parmesan Topping:
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- â…› teaspoon onion powder
- â…› teaspoon celery salt
- For the Fish:
- 2 pounds tilapia fillets
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor and helps form a golden crust.
- Butter: Provides richness and binds the topping for a creamy texture.
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the topping smooth and adds a slight tang.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with a fresh, citrusy zing.
- Dried Basil, Black Pepper, Onion Powder, Celery Salt: Create a balanced, aromatic seasoning blend.
- Tilapia Fillets: Mild, flaky, and lean, tilapia is the perfect canvas for the bold topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Tilapia: Swap with cod, haddock, flounder, or sole; adjust cooking time for thicker fillets.
- Parmesan: Use Pecorino Romano or grated Asiago for a similar cheesy crust.
- Butter: Replace with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Mayonnaise: Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier topping.
- Lemon Juice: Use lime juice or white wine vinegar for a different acidic note.
- Seasonings: Swap basil for oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning; add â…› teaspoon cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, but double-check mayonnaise and seasonings for additives.
- Herb Boost: Add 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill to the topping for extra freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is a breeze, with minimal prep and quick broiling. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Set an oven rack 4 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven’s broiler.
- Line a broiler pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat 2 pounds tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
Tip: Dry fillets ensure even cooking and help the topping adhere.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Topping
- In a small bowl, mix ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup softened butter, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon dried basil, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, ⅛ teaspoon onion powder, and ⅛ teaspoon celery salt until well combined.
Tip: Mix thoroughly for a smooth, spreadable topping; soften butter at room temperature for easier blending.
Step 3: Arrange the Fillets
- Place tilapia fillets in a single layer on the prepared broiler pan.
Tip: Avoid overlapping fillets to ensure even broiling.
Step 4: Broil the Tilapia
- Broil First Side: Broil the fillets for 4 minutes, flipping halfway through (after 2 minutes) to cook both sides.
- Add Topping: Remove the pan from the oven and spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the fillets.
- Finish Broiling: Return to the oven and broil for 2 more minutes, until the topping is browned and bubbly and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook.
Tip: Watch closely during the final broil to prevent burning; broilers vary in intensity.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the fillets rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to set the topping.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Broiled Tilapia Parmesan
Assembling Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is all about creating a tender, flaky fish with a crispy, flavorful crust. Here’s how to put it together:
- Prep the Fish: Arrange tilapia fillets for even cooking under the broiler.
- Make the Topping: Mix a creamy, cheesy Parmesan blend to coat the fish.
- Broil in Stages: Cook the fish partially, add the topping, and finish with a quick broil for a golden crust.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve fillets on a platter with the golden topping facing up to show off the crust.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a vibrant look.
- Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Use a white or colorful plate to highlight the golden crust and flaky fish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is best fresh, but you can store leftovers or prep ahead. Here’s how:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to recrisp the topping, or microwave for 1 minute (topping may soften).
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Topping: Prepare the Parmesan mixture up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge.
- Fillets: Pat dry and season fillets up to 4 hours ahead; refrigerate until ready to broil.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the topping and fish can become soggy when thawed.
Tip: Cook only what you’ll eat immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Spicy Version: Add â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the topping.
- Herb-Infused: Mix 1 tablespoon fresh dill, parsley, or chives into the topping.
- Lemon-Garlic: Add 1 teaspoon minced garlic or lemon zest to the topping for extra zing.
- Panko Crunch: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs over the topping before the final broil for added crunch.
- Mediterranean Twist: Swap basil for oregano and add 1 tablespoon chopped olives or capers to the topping.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter, vegan Parmesan, and mayo alternatives.
Tip: Keep the topping light to avoid overwhelming the delicate tilapia.
Conclusion: Savor Your Broiled Tilapia Parmesan!
You’ve just made Broiled Tilapia Parmesan—a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week! This recipe is easy, flavorful, and so versatile you can make it your own. Whether you serve it with simple sides or dress it up for guests, it’s sure to impress. Grab a fork, enjoy the crispy, cheesy crust, and savor the flaky fish. What’s your favorite way to enjoy tilapia? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Broiled Tilapia Parmesan
Description
Ever wanted to whip up a restaurant-quality seafood dish in under 15 minutes? Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is your answer! This easy recipe transforms mild tilapia fillets into a crispy, cheesy, and tangy delight with a creamy Parmesan topping.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 8 and uses simple ingredients to create a bold, cheesy dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Parmesan Topping:
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- â…› teaspoon onion powder
- â…› teaspoon celery salt
- For the Fish:
- 2 pounds tilapia fillets
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor and helps form a golden crust.
- Butter: Provides richness and binds the topping for a creamy texture.
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the topping smooth and adds a slight tang.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with a fresh, citrusy zing.
- Dried Basil, Black Pepper, Onion Powder, Celery Salt: Create a balanced, aromatic seasoning blend.
- Tilapia Fillets: Mild, flaky, and lean, tilapia is the perfect canvas for the bold topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Tilapia: Swap with cod, haddock, flounder, or sole; adjust cooking time for thicker fillets.
- Parmesan: Use Pecorino Romano or grated Asiago for a similar cheesy crust.
- Butter: Replace with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Mayonnaise: Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier topping.
- Lemon Juice: Use lime juice or white wine vinegar for a different acidic note.
- Seasonings: Swap basil for oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning; add â…› teaspoon cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, but double-check mayonnaise and seasonings for additives.
- Herb Boost: Add 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill to the topping for extra freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Set an oven rack 4 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven’s broiler.
- Line a broiler pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat 2 pounds tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
Tip: Dry fillets ensure even cooking and help the topping adhere.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Topping
- In a small bowl, mix ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup softened butter, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon dried basil, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, ⅛ teaspoon onion powder, and ⅛ teaspoon celery salt until well combined.
Tip: Mix thoroughly for a smooth, spreadable topping; soften butter at room temperature for easier blending.
Step 3: Arrange the Fillets
- Place tilapia fillets in a single layer on the prepared broiler pan.
Tip: Avoid overlapping fillets to ensure even broiling.
Step 4: Broil the Tilapia
- Broil First Side: Broil the fillets for 4 minutes, flipping halfway through (after 2 minutes) to cook both sides.
- Add Topping: Remove the pan from the oven and spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the fillets.
- Finish Broiling: Return to the oven and broil for 2 more minutes, until the topping is browned and bubbly and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook.
Tip: Watch closely during the final broil to prevent burning; broilers vary in intensity.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the fillets rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to set the topping.
FAQs
Q: Is Broiled Tilapia Parmesan healthy?
A: Yes! Tilapia is high in lean protein and low in calories. The topping adds some fat, but you can use less butter or mayo for a lighter option. Pair with veggies for a balanced meal.
Q: Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?
A: Yes! Thaw completely in the fridge and pat dry before cooking to ensure even broiling.
Q: How do I know when the tilapia is done?
A: The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The topping will be golden and bubbly.
Q: Can I bake instead of broil?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, adding the topping halfway through, until the fish flakes easily.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried basil?
A: Absolutely! Use 1 teaspoon fresh basil, parsley, or dill for a brighter flavor.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free butter, vegan Parmesan, and a dairy-free mayo alternative for the topping.