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As I sit down to pen this recipe, I’m transported back to sunny days spent near the coast, where the salty breeze mingled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood grilling on the beach. Fish dishes have always held a special place in my heart, evoking memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. Today, I’m excited to share a dish that encapsulates those joyful moments—the Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Lemon Butter. This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare, but it also boasts a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will impress your family and friends. So let’s dive in!

Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Lemon Butter

Experience a taste of the coast with this Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Lemon Butter recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this dish features tender tilapia topped with a crispy, cheesy crust and bright lemon flavor. It's easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With simple ingredients like Parmesan, panko, and fresh lemon, you can create a meal that brings joy to your table. Dive into this delightful recipe and impress your loved ones!
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Ingredients
  

4 tilapia fillets

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for added crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle depth of flavor)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Coating: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well blended.

      Prepare the Tilapia: Take your tilapia fillets and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the coating stick better to the fish during baking.

        Make the Lemon Butter Mixture: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to the fish.

          Coat the Fillets: Begin the coating process by dipping each tilapia fillet into the lemon butter mixture, ensuring that it is thoroughly coated on all sides. Next, carefully press the coated fillet into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly covered. Repeat this process for all tilapia fillets.

            Bake the Tilapia: Arrange the coated tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart for even cooking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the crust has turned a beautiful golden brown.

              Serve: Once the tilapia is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven. Transfer the fillets to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining lemon butter over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. For an added citrusy kick, serve with lemon wedges on the side.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the tilapia on a platter lined with lemon slices and sprigs of parsley for a vibrant touch that enhances the dish's appeal. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.