Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish

This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is golden on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and full of flavor. Fresh white fish fillets are coated with a savory Parmesan-breadcrumb crust, baked until crispy, and finished with a touch of lemon for brightness. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option that feels restaurant-quality.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish transforms simple white fish into a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal. The Parmesan crust adds crunch and richness, while lemon and herbs balance it with freshness.

• Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes

• Crispy, golden crust without frying

• High-protein, low-carb meal

• Customizable with spices or herbs

• Works with any white fish (cod, haddock, tilapia, snapper)

• Pairs well with vegetables, rice, or salad

• Family-friendly and elegant enough for entertaining

• Can be baked or finished under the broiler for extra crispiness

• Freezer-friendly for meal prep

• Naturally gluten-free option with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 lbs white fish fillets (cod, haddock, tilapia, or snapper)

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, for heat

• Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, lightly greased.

2. Prepare fish: Rinse fillets and pat dry. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Make crust mixture: In a bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes until crumbly and evenly moistened.

4. Crust the fish: Press the top of each fillet into the mixture, coating generously.

5. Arrange: Place crusted fillets on baking sheet, leaving space between each.

6. Bake: Roast 12–15 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork and crust is golden.

7. Optional crisping: Broil 1–2 minutes for extra crunch, watching carefully.

8. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to the crust.

• Herby: Mix in fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary.

• Nutty twist: Swap some breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or walnuts.

• Cheesy crust: Add Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a bolder flavor.

• Lemon-pepper version: Increase lemon juice and add extra black pepper.

• Mediterranean style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives on the side.

• Garlic butter drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of melted garlic butter before serving.

• Air fryer method: Cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes until crispy.

• Kid-friendly: Make into fish sticks by cutting fish into strips before coating.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

• Freeze: Freeze uncooked coated fillets on a tray, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes to cook time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before coating.

Why is my crust not sticking?

Make sure the fish is thoroughly dried and press the crust mixture firmly onto it.

Can I pan-fry instead of baking?

Yes, cook in a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat, 3–4 minutes per side.

What’s the best fish for this recipe?

Firm white fish like cod, haddock, tilapia, or snapper works best.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

How do I know when the fish is done?

It should reach 145°F internally and flake easily with a fork.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the crusted fish and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking.

What sides go well with it?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes, increase Parmesan for a richer, cheesier crust.

Will this work with salmon?

Yes, though salmon has a stronger flavor—reduce Parmesan slightly for balance.

Conclusion

This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With its crunchy golden crust and tender, flaky inside, it’s a family-friendly favorite that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Easy to make, customizable, and always satisfying, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.