Parmesan Crusted Fish Recipe – Crispy, Flavorful & Easy

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful way to enjoy fish, this Parmesan Crusted Fish is exactly what you need! Imagine tender, flaky fish coated in a crispy, cheesy crust with a hint of paprika and parsley—seriously, it’s a game-changer. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes to make, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.


Why You’ll Love Parmesan Crusted Fish

  • Crispy & Flavorful – The Parmesan crust gives the fish an irresistible golden crunch.
  • Quick & Easy – Just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Healthy & Low-Carb – A great alternative to breaded fish, but still packed with flavor.
  • Perfect for Any Fish – Works beautifully with cod, tilapia, salmon, or any mild white fish.

Ingredients Parmesan Crusted Fish

All you need to make this delicious Parmesan Crusted Fish are a few simple ingredients!

  • Fish fillets – Choose a mild, flaky white fish like cod, tilapia, or haddock.
  • Parmesan cheese – Creates that deliciously crispy, golden crust.
  • Paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
  • Dried parsley flakes – Enhances the flavor with a mild herbiness.
  • Ground black pepper – Gives a subtle kick of spice.
  • Olive oil – Helps the coating stick and keeps the fish moist.

👉 Exact ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!


How to Make Parmesan Crusted Fish

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Coating

A bowl of Parmesan cheese, paprika, parsley, and black pepper being mixed together to create a crispy coating for the fish.
Mix up this flavor-packed Parmesan coating—this crispy crust is what makes this fish SO good!
  • In a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, paprika, parsley flakes, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Fish

  • Rub olive oil all over the fish fillets to help the crust stick.
  • Dredge each fillet in the Parmesan mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
  • Let the coated fish sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Bake the Fish

Two Parmesan-coated fish fillets baking on a parchment-lined tray inside an oven, turning golden brown and crispy.
Into the oven they go! 🔥 Watch as these Parmesan Crusted Fish fillets turn beautifully golden and crispy.
  • Arrange the coated fillets on a lightly greased baking tray.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy this crispy, cheesy fish with your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged grated cheese.
  • Let the Fish Sit Before Baking – This helps the crust stick better and enhances the flavor.
  • Check for Doneness – The fish should flake easily with a fork when it’s fully cooked.
  • Try Air Frying! – For an even crispier crust, air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

🌮 Feeling adventurous? If you love bold flavors, try these Beef Tongue Tacos—a delicious and tender Mexican classic that’s packed with rich, meaty goodness!👉👉Beef Tongue Tacos…..


How to Serve

This Parmesan Crusted Fish pairs beautifully with:

  • Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lemon adds brightness to the dish.
  • Steamed Vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make a perfect light side.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy side to balance the crispy fish.
  • Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing complements the flavors.

🍋 Looking for the perfect dessert to follow your crispy, savory fish? Try these Stuffed Lemon Cookies—a zesty, sweet treat that pairs wonderfully with a light seafood meal!👉👉Stuffed Lemon Cookies…..


Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

🍼 Need more easy, make-ahead recipes? Check out these Baby Shower Meatballs—savory, tender, and perfect for prepping in advance, just like this fish!👉👉Baby Shower Meatballs….

Freezing Parmesan Crusted Fish

  • You can freeze the cooked fish! Place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Fish

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.
  • Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use in 30-second intervals (but this may soften the crust).

Bonus Variants: Fun Twists on Parmesan Crusted Fish

1️⃣ Spicy Cajun Parmesan Crusted Fish

If you love a little heat, this Cajun-inspired version is for you!

🟢 What to Do:

  • Add ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the Parmesan mixture.
  • Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Serve with a cooling lemon-dill yogurt sauce for balance.

🟢 Why You’ll Love It:
The bold Cajun spices add a smoky, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the crispy Parmesan crust!


2️⃣ Garlic Herb Parmesan Crusted Fish

Aromatic and flavorful, this version is perfect for garlic lovers!

🟢 What to Do:

  • Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the Parmesan mixture.
  • Swap dried parsley for Italian seasoning for a richer herb flavor.
  • Drizzle with garlic butter after baking for an extra indulgent touch.

🟢 Why You’ll Love It:
Garlic + Parmesan = a match made in heaven! This version is ultra-savory and pairs beautifully with roasted veggies.


3️⃣ Lemon-Pepper Parmesan Crusted Fish

Bright, zesty, and packed with fresh flavor—perfect for summer!

🟢 What to Do:

  • Add zest of 1 lemon to the Parmesan mixture.
  • Swap regular black pepper for cracked lemon pepper seasoning.
  • Serve with a side of lemon butter sauce for extra citrusy goodness.

🟢 Why You’ll Love It:
The lemon zest enhances the Parmesan crust’s flavor and keeps the fish tasting fresh and light!


Which One Will You Try First?

Try one of these fun variations and let me know which is your favorite! Or get creative and mix and match flavors to make it your own.

🐣 Celebrating a springtime meal? Pair your Parmesan Crusted Fish with this stunning Easter Swirl Pie—a creamy, colorful dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious!👉👉Easter Swirl Pie…..


FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with tilapia, cod, haddock, salmon, or even trout.

How do I make this even crispier?

For extra crunch, broil the fish for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking or use an air fryer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The recipe is already naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t use breadcrumbs. Just make sure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.

Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried?

Yes! If using fresh parsley, finely chop it and add about 1 tablespoon instead of dried flakes.


This Parmesan Crusted Fish is the ultimate quick, crispy, and flavorful dinner! Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s simple but totally delicious!

🍫 Love a little indulgence after your meal? These Chocolate Lava Cakes are rich, gooey, and the perfect way to end your crispy fish dinner on a sweet note! 👉👉Chocolate Lava Cakes…..

Print
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Golden brown Parmesan Crusted Fish fillet served on a white plate with a side of lemon and parsley, highlighting its crispy and flaky texture.

Parmesan Crusted Fish Recipe – Crispy, Flavorful & Easy

  • Author: olivia
  • Prep Time: 12 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Seafood
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Parmesan Crusted Fish is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with cheesy, herby flavor! Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and easy seafood dish. Serve it with a side of lemon and veggies for a delicious low-carb meal!


Ingredients

For the Parmesan Crust:

  • Parmesan cheese – Adds a crispy, cheesy crust.
  • Paprika – Adds a smoky depth and color.
  • Dried parsley flakes – Brings a subtle herby freshness.
  • Black pepper – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Olive oil – Helps the crust stick and keeps the fish moist.

For the Fish:

  • White fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock) – Mild, flaky, and perfect for baking.

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Make the Parmesan Coating – Mix Parmesan cheese, paprika, parsley, and black pepper in a bowl.
3️⃣ Coat the Fish – Rub fish fillets with olive oil, then coat them evenly in the Parmesan mixture. Let sit for 10 minutes to enhance flavor.
4️⃣ Bake – Arrange fillets on the tray and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
5️⃣ Serve – Transfer to a plate, squeeze fresh lemon on top, and enjoy!


Notes

  • For Extra Crispiness – Broil the fish for the last 1-2 minutes.
  • Best Cheese Choice – Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and texture.
  • Air Fryer Option – Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes for an even crispier crust!
  • Storage – Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fish fillet
  • Calories: 220 kcal per serving
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: parmesan crusted fish, baked fish recipe, crispy fish fillet, easy seafood dinner, low-carb fish recipe, healthy baked fish