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Broiled tilapia fillets topped with a golden Parmesan crust served with rice and green beans in a shallow bowl.

Broiled Parmesan Tilapia

A quick and flavorful broiled tilapia topped with a creamy lemon-parmesan mixture, ready in just 15 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 242 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 Tbsp Butter, softened
  • 3 Tbsp Mayonnaise
  • 2 Tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp Dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp Celery salt
  • 1/8 tsp Onion powder
  • 8 fillets Tilapia fillets (about 2 lb)

Optional Ingredients

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • a pinch Paprika (for color)
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Place oven rack 4–6 inches from the heat source. Preheat the broiler.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil and coat lightly with cooking spray.
  • Pat tilapia dry with paper towels to prevent steaming.

Mixing / Assembling

  • In a small bowl, stir together Parmesan, butter, mayonnaise, lemon juice, basil, black pepper, celery salt, and onion powder until smooth.
  • Keep the mixture ready near the oven since broiling goes fast.

Cooking / Broiling

  • Arrange fillets in a single layer on the prepared pan.
  • Broil for 2–3 minutes.
  • Remove pan carefully and spoon/spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of the fillets.
  • Return to the broiler and cook for about 2 minutes more until the topping is browned and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F in the thickest part if using a thermometer.

Resting / Finishing

  • Let the fish rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.
  • Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

For best texture, dry the fillets first. Avoid walking away while broiling, as things can brown quickly. Optional substitutions include other mild white fish like cod or pollock. You can prep the topping ahead for convenience.
Keyword Easy Fish Recipe, Gluten-Free Dinner, Parmesan Tilapia, Quick Dinner