Golden, flaky, and packed with savory flavor, Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is a quick and easy dinner that delivers on both texture and taste. Tender white fish fillets are coated in a crisp layer of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to perfection. It’s a fuss-free recipe perfect for weeknights but elegant enough to serve to guests.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy and Flavorful – A crunchy coating with cheesy, herby depth.
Quick Cooking – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Kid-Friendly – A great alternative to traditional fish sticks.
Customizable – Works with any mild white fish.
Pairs with Anything – Delicious with salad, potatoes, or vegetables.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)
4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or similar)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 tbsp water
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried Italian herbs (or oregano)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
3 shallow bowls or plates
Skillet (non-stick or stainless steel)
Spatula or tongs
Paper towels
Serving plate
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Set Up the Breading Station
In one shallow bowl, place the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
In the second, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon water.
In the third, mix Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
Step 2: Bread the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel.
Dredge each fillet first in the flour (shake off excess), then dip into the egg mixture, and finally press into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until well coated on both sides.
Step 3: Cook the Fish
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the fish fillets to the skillet (in batches if needed to avoid crowding).
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (fish should flake easily with a fork).
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Fish
Use Fresh Fish – Mild, flaky white fish works best.
Don’t Overcook – Fish is done when it flakes easily and is opaque in the center.
Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Panko breadcrumbs give a crispier texture than regular ones.
Season Every Layer – Lightly season the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures for depth.
Serve Immediately – For the best crunch, enjoy right after cooking.
Serving Suggestions
With Roasted Vegetables – Like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
On a Salad – Flaky fish on greens with lemon vinaigrette makes a perfect light meal.
With Rice or Couscous – Adds a satisfying grain base.
In a Sandwich – Serve in a bun with tartar sauce and lettuce for a crispy fish sandwich.
With Mashed Potatoes – For a comforting, classic pairing.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked fillets—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until hot and crispy.
Toaster Oven: Ideal for keeping the crust crunchy.
Avoid Microwaving: It may soften the crispy crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway.
2. What fish works best?
Mild white fish like cod, haddock, tilapia, or halibut works beautifully.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
4. What sauce goes well with this?
Try lemon aioli, tartar sauce, or garlic yogurt dip.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is the kind of weeknight hero that makes everyone at the table happy. Quick, crispy, and packed with savory goodness, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether served with veggies, grains, or tucked into a sandwich, this cheesy-crusted fish is always a win.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 460mg
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Golden, flaky, and packed with savory flavor, Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is a quick and easy dinner that delivers on both texture and taste. Tender white fish fillets are coated in a crisp layer of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to perfection. It’s a fuss-free recipe perfect for weeknights but elegant enough to serve to guests.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now for healthy dinner favorites, easy seafood recipes, and golden crispy meals you’ll love.
Ingredients
4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or similar)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 tbsp water
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried Italian herbs (or oregano)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Set Up the Breading Station
In one shallow bowl, place the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
In the second, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon water.
In the third, mix Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
Step 2: Bread the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel.
Dredge each fillet first in the flour (shake off excess), then dip into the egg mixture, and finally press into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until well coated on both sides.
Step 3: Cook the Fish
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the fish fillets to the skillet (in batches if needed to avoid crowding).
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (fish should flake easily with a fork).
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
Use Fresh Fish – Mild, flaky white fish works best.
Don’t Overcook – Fish is done when it flakes easily and is opaque in the center.
Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Panko breadcrumbs give a crispier texture than regular ones.
Season Every Layer – Lightly season the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures for depth.
Serve Immediately – For the best crunch, enjoy right after cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired
