If you’re looking for a dish that’s light, crispy, and packed with flavor, this Parmesan Crumbed Fish is exactly what you need. It’s a simple recipe that transforms everyday white fish into something truly special—tender, flaky fillets with a golden, crunchy Parmesan crust.
The best part? It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- Crispy, Golden Crumb – The panko and Parmesan create a light, crunchy texture that complements the flaky fish perfectly.
- Easy, Yet Gourmet – This dish looks and tastes restaurant-quality but is effortless to prepare at home.
- Healthy and Flavorful – The fish is lightly coated, not deep-fried, keeping it crispy without being greasy.
- Quick to Cook – From start to finish, this dish is ready in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 2 | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10-12 minutes)
For the Fish:
- 2 firm white fish fillets (about 5 oz each, skin off, at room temperature)
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard (or substitute mayo)
- Olive oil spray
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Parmesan Crumb:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup (30g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Grill or Broiler
I start by preheating my grill/broiler on high. If using the oven, I set it to 220°C/390°F. This ensures the fish cooks quickly and the topping turns beautifully golden.
2. Make the Parmesan Crumb
In a small bowl, I mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. The olive oil helps the crumbs crisp up and turn golden as they cook.
3. Season and Coat the Fish
I lightly sprinkle both sides of the fish with salt and pepper, then spread Dijon mustard over the top of each fillet. The mustard acts as a glue for the crumb mixture and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
Next, I firmly press the mustard-coated side of the fish into the Parmesan crumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. For an extra crispy result, I spray the crumbed side with a little olive oil spray.
4. Cook to Perfection
Grill/Broiler Method (Best for Crispiness!)
I drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil into a hot skillet and place the fillets in, crumb-side up. Then, I transfer the skillet under the broiler for 5-6 minutes, rotating as needed. The fish is done when the crumb is golden brown and the fillets flake easily with a fork.
Oven Method (Great for Even Cooking!)
For a no-fuss approach, I bake the fish at 220°C/390°F for 10-12 minutes. To get that extra golden top, I finish it under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve Immediately
Once the fish is cooked, I plate it up right away with fresh lemon wedges for a bright, zesty contrast.
Pro Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Fish
- Use Firm White Fish – Good choices include cod, haddock, snapper, halibut, or tilapia. These hold up well and stay tender.
- Press the Crumb Firmly – This ensures it sticks and crisps up beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook the Fish – Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking makes it dry.
- Make It Spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the crumb mix for extra kick.
- Add a Nutty Twist – Substitute half the panko with crushed almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and depth.
What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Fish
This crispy, cheesy fish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are my favorites:
- Garlic Butter Green Beans – A fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich Parmesan topping.
- Lemon Herb Rice – A light, citrusy side that complements the fish beautifully.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes – For a hearty, comforting meal.
- Simple Arugula Salad – Tossed with olive oil, lemon, and shaved Parmesan for an elegant touch.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I make this with frozen fish?
A: Yes! Just thaw the fillets completely, pat them dry, and bring them to room temperature before cooking.
Q: Can I substitute the Parmesan?
A: If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, nutty flavor.
Q: Can I air-fry this?
A: Absolutely! Cook at 200°C/400°F for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: For best results, reheat in the oven at 180°C/350°F for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer to keep the crispiness.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Fish
This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. The crispy Parmesan crust adds the perfect crunch, while the mustard and garlic give the fish a deep, savory taste. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but is effortless to make at home.
So, if you’re looking for a healthy yet indulgent dish that comes together in minutes, give this Parmesan Crusted Fisha try! Let me know how it turns out and what you pair it with—I’d love to hear your favorite sides and variations.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish: A Simple Yet Elegant Dinner
Ingredients
- 2 fillets of white fish (such as cod or tilapia)
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard (or substitute mayo)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of the fish fillets with Dijon mustard.
- Coat each fillet with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it onto the fish to adhere.
- Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top of the fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges and a side of your choice.
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