Name: Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486255H52M38S
Total time: PT-486255H52M38S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or halibut); Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 2 eggs, beaten; ½ cup all‑purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for frying); Lemon wedges (for serving); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is a simple yet flavorful recipe that turns mild white fish into something golden, crunchy, and seriously delicious. The parmesan coating adds a savory, cheesy crust that locks in moisture and gives every bite a satisfying crunch. It’s quick to make, easy to pair with sides, and always a hit at my dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes plain fish and gives it a bold, crispy upgrade without deep frying or heavy batter. The parmesan and breadcrumb combo creates a perfect crust, while the inside stays tender and flaky. It’s a great way to get more seafood into my weeknight routine, and I can serve it with anything from roasted veggies to a fresh salad or even tucked into fish tacos.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

White fish fillets (like cod, tilapia, haddock, or halibut)
Grated parmesan cheese
Panko breadcrumbs
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Olive oil or butter (for pan-frying)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

I pat the fish dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
I set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
I dip each fillet first in flour, then in the egg, and finally press it into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture to coat evenly.
In a large skillet, I heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
I cook the fish for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
I transfer the fish to a paper towel-lined plate and serve it hot with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10–12 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in around 20–25 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. I’ve also made this with salmon for a richer version, or used crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs when I’m out. For a spicier crust, I add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat and keep the crust crispy, I warm the fish in a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 5–8 minutes. I avoid microwaving it—it makes the crust soggy.

FAQs

What kind of fish works best?

I like using firm, mild white fish like cod, halibut, tilapia, or haddock. They hold their shape and take on flavor well.

Can I bake this instead of frying?

Yes, I bake it at 425°F on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet for about 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway through for even crispiness.

Is fresh parmesan better than pre-grated?

Freshly grated parmesan melts and browns better, but I’ve used pre-grated in a pinch and it still works fine.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs or almond flour and it still gives a nice crispy coating.

Do I need to use panko?

Panko gives the crust extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too—just expect a slightly softer texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish is one of those go-to meals I rely on when I want something fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. The crust is golden and savory, the fish is tender and flaky, and it all comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m cooking for my family or just myself, this recipe always delivers that perfect crispy bite.