Crispy Parmesan Broiled Tilapia with Lemon and Herbs

Broiled Tilapia Parmesan is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. A creamy topping of Parmesan cheese, butter, mayonnaise, lemon juice and a blend of dried herbs and spices is spread over tilapia fillets, then broiled until the fish is flaky and the topping is golden. Serves 4.

Quick, easy and restaurant-quality tilapia parmesan.

This version of Tilapia Parmesan is adapted from an older recipe and has been refined over the years. A simple mixture of softened butter, mayonnaise, freshly grated Parmesan, Old Bay seasoning and a few dried herbs is spread onto tilapia fillets and broiled for a bright, savory result. The whole process takes under 15 minutes and yields an impressive, flavorful main course.

For best results use fresh tilapia fillets from the seafood counter when possible. Fresh fillets are often larger and have a better texture than flash-frozen pieces. If fresh isn’t available, frozen tilapia will work—just be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before broiling.

This recipe produces a flavorful topping that’s not heavy—perfect with simple vegetable sides or rice.

To Make Tilapia Parmesan You Will Need:

• butter (unsalted) – adds rich flavor
• mayonnaise – adds creaminess
• parmesan cheese – use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture
• Old Bay seasoning – store-bought or homemade
• dried basil – adds herbaceous notes
• garlic powder – mild, savory garlic flavor
• celery salt – subtle savory depth
• black pepper – a touch of bite
• fresh lemon juice – adds acidity and thins the topping
• tilapia fillets – fresh or fully thawed frozen fillets
• minced parsley – optional, for garnish

Move the oven rack to the highest position and preheat the broiler on high.

In a medium bowl combine 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise and 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon onion powder and 1/8 teaspoon celery salt. Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and stir until smooth. Set the mixture aside.

Lightly spray a foil-lined baking sheet with avocado oil spray or extra light olive oil for easy cleanup. Arrange the tilapia fillets on the pan with the darker side (the bottom) facing up and the nicer side down. Slide the pan under the broiler for about 3 minutes; the fish should begin to turn opaque.

Remove the pan and carefully flip each fillet so the nicer side faces up. Divide the Parmesan mixture and spread it evenly over the fillets.

Return the fish to the broiler for another 3 minutes or until the topping is golden and bubbly and the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve the Broiled Tilapia Parmesan with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and minced fresh parsley. It pairs well with simple roasted vegetables, steamed greens or a light rice pilaf.

Enjoy! If you try this Broiled Tilapia Parmesan, I’d love to hear how it turned out—feel free to share a photo.