Print

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is golden and crunchy on the outside while staying tender and flaky on the inside. Fresh white fish fillets are coated in a savory Parmesan-breadcrumb crust, baked until perfectly crisp, and finished with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. It’s quick, healthy, and elegant enough for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

  • Author: Chef Sarah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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 garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven – Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
  2. Prepare fish – Rinse fillets, pat dry, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Mix crust – In a bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until crumbly and evenly moistened.
  4. Coat fillets – Press the top of each fish fillet firmly into the mixture to create a thick crust.
  5. Arrange – Place coated fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  6. Bake – Roast for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden.
  7. Optional crisping – Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crunch, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to the crust.
  • Herby: Use fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme instead of oregano.
  • Nutty twist: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or walnuts.
  • Cheesy: Add Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a bolder flavor.
  • Mediterranean: Serve with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Air fryer: Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until crispy.
  • Kid-friendly: Cut fish into strips to make cheesy fish sticks.