Broiled Tilapia Parmesan: 5 Simple Steps to Deliciousness

Quick Overview

Want a dinner that’s both effortlessly impressive and incredibly simple? Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is your new go-to weeknight favorite. This recipe takes mild tilapia fillets and elevates them with a rich, creamy Parmesan topping that turns golden and bubbly under the broiler. What makes it truly special is the way it combines indulgent, cheesy flavor with the light, flaky texture of perfectly cooked fish.

The magic happens when the garlicky, herb-infused Parmesan mixture forms a golden crust on top of the tilapia, creating an irresistible combination that even seafood skeptics will devour. Best of all? You can have this restaurant-quality meal on the table in just 20 minutes from start to finish – about 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss.

The Ingredients I Use to Bring My Broiled Tilapia Parmesan to Life

To create this delicious Broiled Tilapia Parmesan, you’ll need:

For the Fish:

• 4 tilapia fillets (about 4-6 ounces each)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Parmesan Topping:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat works best)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top)
• 3 tablespoons softened butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• Paprika for dusting (about ¼ teaspoon)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Fish

Turn your oven’s broiler to high and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source. This distance is crucial – too close and your topping will burn before the fish cooks; too far and you won’t get that beautiful golden crust.

While the broiler preheats, prepare a broiler-safe baking dish by lining it with aluminum foil and giving it a light coating of cooking spray. This preparation step might seem small, but it makes cleanup infinitely easier later.

Arrange the tilapia fillets in a single layer in your baking dish, leaving a bit of space between each one. Gently pat them dry with paper towels—this step helps the seasonings stick and reduces moisture for improved browning. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then drizzle lemon juice evenly over the fillets. The lemon not only enhances the flavor of the tilapia but also adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich topping that’s coming next.

Step 2: Create the Parmesan Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, softened butter, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and onion powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth, well-integrated spread.

The secret to a perfect Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is all in the topping. While mayonnaise might seem like an unexpected ingredient, it adds a luscious creaminess and helps keep the fish moist during broiling. The butter brings a rich depth of flavor, and the garlic and herbs infuse the mixture with fragrant notes that pair beautifully with the mild taste of tilapia.

Make sure your butter is properly softened (but not melted) to achieve the right consistency. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds, just until it gives easily when pressed.

Step 3: Apply the Topping to the Fish

Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, carefully spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each tilapia fillet. Aim for a layer about ¼-inch thick that covers the entire surface of the fish.

Be generous with the topping – it’s what transforms this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. However, avoid letting the mixture spill over onto the baking dish, as it can burn under the intense heat of the broiler.

Once the topping is applied, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese over all the fillets. This extra layer of cheese will create beautiful brown spots as it broils. Finally, dust the tops lightly with paprika for a touch of color and a subtle smoky flavor.

Step 4: Broil to Perfection

Place the baking dish under the preheated broiler and cook for about 10-12 minutes. The exact timing will depend on the thickness of your fillets and the specific heat of your broiler, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your Broiled Tilapia Parmesan during this step.

You’ll know the fish is done when the topping becomes golden brown with some darker spots, and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) if you’re using a food thermometer.

If you notice the topping browning too quickly before the fish is cooked through, move the baking dish to a lower rack or turn the broiler temperature down to medium.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once perfectly broiled, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 2 minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor.

Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top of the Broiled Tilapia Parmesan for a vibrant finish that adds both color and a fresh herbal note. Arrange lemon wedges around the dish or on individual plates for serving.

Using a spatula, carefully transfer the fillets to plates, making sure to keep the topping intact. The delicious sauce that forms at the bottom of the baking dish can be spooned over the fish for extra flavor.

What to Serve Broiled Tilapia Parmesan With

Broiled Tilapia Parmesan pairs beautifully with a wide range of side dishes. Here are some of my favorite options:

1. Bright, Fresh Vegetables: Steamed asparagus or roasted cherry tomatoes provide a beautiful color contrast and cut through the richness of the Parmesan topping.
2. Grain Options: A simple garlic butter rice pilaf or lemon orzo makes an excellent base for soaking up the flavorful juices from the fish.
3. Salad Pairings: A crisp Caesar salad or a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly without competing with its flavors.
4. Bread Accompaniments: Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is essential for scooping up any leftover Parmesan topping – trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
5. Wine Suggestions: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc makes the perfect beverage pairing, as their bright acidity balances the creamy richness of the dish.

Top Tips for Perfecting Broiled Tilapia Parmesan

After making this dish countless times, I’ve discovered several secrets to elevate your Broiled Tilapia Parmesan from good to extraordinary:

1. Choose the Right Tilapia: Look for fillets that are uniformly thick (about 1 inch) to ensure even cooking. If possible, opt for fresh rather than frozen tilapia for the best texture.
2. Don’t Skip Drying the Fish: Patting the fillets dry is crucial for proper browning and preventing a watery sauce.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your fish come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking, and make sure your butter is properly softened for the topping. Cold fish straight from the refrigerator will cook unevenly.
4. Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than the pre-shredded variety. The flavor difference is remarkable, and fresh Parmesan melts more beautifully.
5. Watch Closely While Broiling: All broilers are different, and the line between perfectly browned and burnt can be thin. Don’t walk away during the broiling process!
6. Ingredient Substitutions:

• If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can work as a substitute, though the result will be tangier and slightly less rich.
• For a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Other white fish like cod, haddock, or sole can substitute for tilapia if needed.

1. Broiler Position Matters: The recommended 6-inch distance from the heat source is just a guideline. If your broiler runs particularly hot, you might need to move the rack a bit farther down to prevent over-browning.

Storing and Reheating Tips

While Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, sometimes leftovers are inevitable. Here’s how to handle them properly:

Refrigeration: Store leftover fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Any longer and the fish quality begins to deteriorate significantly.

Reheating in the Oven: For the best results, reheat in a 275°F (135°C) oven. Place the fillets on a foil-lined baking sheet and cover loosely with another piece of foil to prevent the topping from burning. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This slow, gentle reheating approach helps maintain the fish’s delicate texture.

Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the fish. Place the fillet on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat at 50% power in 30-second intervals until just warmed through.

Freezing Not Recommended: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as both the texture of the fish and the quality of the Parmesan topping suffer significantly when frozen and thawed.

Repurposing Leftovers: If you do have leftovers, consider flaking the fish and using it in a creamy pasta dish or as a filling for fish tacos – a great way to enjoy it in a new form!

Broiled Tilapia Parmesan remains one of my go-to recipes when I need something impressive with minimal effort. The combination of tender fish and that irresistible Parmesan topping creates a dish that feels special enough for company yet simple enough for a Tuesday night dinner. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

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