Seeking a dish that is easy to prepare, elegant, and bursting with flavor? This Parmesan-Crusted Fish recipe is the perfect choice! Combining a white fishâs mild and flaky texture with a herbaceous crust, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser!
Whether serving a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe pairs wonderfully with a side of rice pilaf, creamy mashed potatoes, or a nice salad. Best of all, itâs simple enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough to satisfy seasoned cooks.

Why youâll love this recipe:
- Texture contrast from the golden and crunchy crust with the tender flaky fish
- Great for a variety of white fishes – cod, haddock, flounder, tilapia, grouper, etc.
- Extremely easy to prepare and can be added to your everyday fish recipes
- Great pairing for Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.Â
- All ingredients are easy to find at the local grocery store or fish market
FAQs & Questions:
What is the best fish for this recipe?
Any mild-flavored, flaky fish will be best for this recipe. Such examples include cod, haddock, tilapia, grouper, etc. These types of fish provide a delicate base for the crust while allowing the seasonings and toppings to meld well together without overpowering the dish.
How do I store this Parmesan fish recipe?
You will store the fish in an airtight container. Place the leftover fish inside the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
How can I reheat this recipe without making the crust soggy?
You can reheat in the oven at 250°F for 10-12 minutes to maintain a crispy crust. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the crust soggy.
Can I use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the crust?
Yes, you can try using a dairy-free parmesan alternative to achieve a similar cheesy flavor and texture.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan, or does fresh parmesan work better?
Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for better texture and flavor.
Is it okay to use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs?Â
Yes, panko bread crumbs can be used for a crunchier texture as they tend to create a lighter and crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Is this considered a healthy fish recipe?
Yes, it can be considered healthy if using a light coating of parmesan and breadcrumbs.
Basic ingredients:Â
White fish – Mild-flavored, flaky fish adds a delicate base for the crust.Â
Breadcrumbs – Perfect for providing the crunchy texture to the crust.Â
Parmesan Reggiano – Â Due to its nutty and salty flavor, it enhances the overall taste of the dish.Â
Basil – Adds a fresh and aromatic flavor to the fish while balancing the richness of the parmesan.Â
Fresh parsley – Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch.
Thyme – The lemony notes of thyme provide a savory taste to the crust.Â
Garlic – Along with the thyme, it adds a savory flavor component while complementing the parmesan in the crust.Â
Lemon – adds a fresh lemon parmesan flavor by contributing a bright and crisp flavor without making the crust soggy.
Kosher salt
Black pepperÂ
Brief Instructions for parmesan crusted fish:
Pat your fish dry by using a paper towel. Season the fish with kosher salt and set aside. Next, prepare your crust by obtaining a small mixing bowl.Place breadcrumbs, melted butter, fresh herbs, parmesan cheese, etc. Mix all ingredients and season with a bit of salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
Set aside the cheese mixture and tend to your fish by patting it dry with a paper towel again, and coat a thin layer of olive oil on the fish.Â
Transfer the white fish to a skillet and turn on your oven to broil at 400°F.
Using a small spoon, carefully place the parmesan mixture on top of the fish.Â
Add the butter and lemon slices to the skillet so that they may cook the bottom of the fish. You can also place the fish in the oven using a sheet pan or baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
Set the white fish in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the top of the crust is golden brown. Once the desired cooking time is achieved, carefully remove the fish from the oven and set it aside to cool.Â
Please review the recipe card for more specific instructions.Â
Do you love this recipe? More delicious recipes from SeaFoodie Diaries:
Parmesan crusted fish
Amazing parmesan crusted flounder recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan reggiano
- lemon zest
- lemon juice
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 12 ounces of flounder
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon of mix herbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Pat your fish dry by using a paper towel to remove excess moisture. If the fish fillets are big, you can cut them into smaller pieces.
- Season the fish with kosher salt and set aside.
- Next, prepare your crust by obtaining a small mixing bowl.
- Place breadcrumbs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, melted butter, fresh herbs, parmesan, etc.
- Mix all ingredients and season with a bit of salt and black pepper.
- Using a few paper towels, pat the fresh fish again and then add a thin layer of olive oil on top of the fish.
- Transfer the white fish to a skillet and turn on your oven to broil at 400°F.
- Using a small spoon, carefully place the breadcrumb mixture on top of the fish.
- Add the butter and lemon slices to the skillet so that they may cook the bottom of the fish.
- Set the white fish in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the crust mixture is golden brown. Check on the recipe every 2-3 minutes.
- After you have desired cooking time, carefully remove the fish from the oven and set it aside to cool.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 261Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 66mgSodium: 774mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 20g