Florida's Finest: Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia Recipe Inspired by Coastal Flavors

Florida, known for its sunny beaches and fresh seafood, is the perfect inspiration for a light yet flavorful dish like Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia. Inspired by the beloved flavors of the Red Lobster restaurant, this recipe captures the essence of coastal dining while being simple enough to prepare at home. With its crispy, cheesy crust and tender, flaky fish, this Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia is sure to become a new favorite, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just enjoying a laid-back dinner by the water.

Photo byNick Davies

Imagine the aroma of baked Parmesan and herbs wafting through your kitchen, the fish sizzling to a perfect golden brown. This dish is a testament to Florida's culinary heritage, where fresh seafood and bright, vibrant flavors take center stage. Tilapia, a mild and versatile fish, is the perfect canvas for the crunchy, cheesy topping. With every bite, you get the richness of the Parmesan mixed with the fresh taste of the ocean, making it a dish that's not only delicious but also light and satisfying.

The best part? This Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can bring the taste of Florida’s coastal cuisine into your kitchen, impressing your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe: Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia, Florida Style Ingredients:

• ⅔ cup plus 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• ⅓ cup panko bread crumbs
• ⅓ cup prepared Alfredo sauce (refrigerated or jarred)
• 1½ teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 4 tilapia fillets (6 to 8 ounces each)
• Shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Minced fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ⅔ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and panko bread crumbs. In a separate small bowl, mix together the Alfredo sauce, remaining 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley flakes. Stir well. Spread the Alfredo mixture evenly over the top of the tilapia fillets, coating them generously. Top the fish with the panko and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake the tilapia on the top shelf of the oven for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fish begins to flake when tested with a fork. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and fresh parsley for an added touch of elegance.

This Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia is best served with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. The crispiness of the crust paired with the tender fish creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking to recreate the magic of a seaside restaurant or just want a comforting yet elegant dinner at home, this recipe will transport you straight to the shores of Florida.

Florida’s coastal cuisine is all about showcasing the freshness of the sea, and this dish does just that with simplicity and flair. The Parmesan-crusted tilapia brings out the best of the fish’s delicate flavor, while the Alfredo and panko topping adds richness and crunch. It’s a meal that feels luxurious, yet it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for anyone who loves the taste of the ocean but wants to enjoy it from the comfort of their home.

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Family Recipe