Name: 10-Minute Parmesan Crumbed Fish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (large, beaten); 2 tbsp milk; 1 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter); Salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Looking for a quick, flavorful fish recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners? Our 10-Minute Parmesan Crumbed Fish is the ultimate combination of crispy golden crust, tender fish, and a burst of savory flavor. In just 10 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality dish right at home using pantry staples and minimal prep. This recipe is ideal for families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone who loves a fuss-free, delicious seafood dinner.

Ingredients

4 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Set up dredging station: Place flour in a separate dish. In another dish, whisk eggs with milk until well combined.
Coat the fish: Lightly pat fish fillets dry. Dredge each fillet in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the Parmesan-panko mixture. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick.
Cook the fish: Heat olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
Serve immediately: Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with fresh parsley, and add lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crumbed Fish

Dry fillets for crispiness: Pat the fish dry with paper towels before dredging to help the crumbs stick and crisp up.
Use fresh Parmesan: Grated Parmesan from a block provides better flavor and a crunchier crust than pre-grated varieties.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain even crispiness.
Add flavor variations: Mix herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill into the breadcrumb mixture for extra aroma.

Variations

Oven-Baked Option: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place coated fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a mild kick.
Herb-Crusted: Fold finely chopped fresh parsley, chives, or basil into the crumbs for a fresh, vibrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a bed of mixed greens or with roasted vegetables for a light dinner.
Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter pasta for a hearty meal.
Drizzle with a simple lemon-butter sauce or tartar sauce for extra flavor.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Parmesan-crusted fish combines classic Italian flavors with the convenience of a quick-cook method. Parmesan, an aged hard cheese from Italy, melts slightly during cooking to form a golden, savory crust. Traditionally, fish dishes in Mediterranean cuisine emphasize light seasoning, freshness, and quick cooking to preserve natural flavors. This recipe brings a modern, weeknight-friendly twist to that tradition.

Health Benefits

Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Parmesan adds calcium and flavor without heavy sauces.
Quick-cooking methods like pan-frying in minimal oil preserve nutrients and reduce cooking time.

Meal Prep & Storage

Make ahead: Coat fish fillets with the breadcrumb mixture and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Leftovers: Cooked fish can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days and gently reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is designed for speed, simplicity, and maximum flavor. The combination of Parmesan, panko, and seasoning creates a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside. Cooking in just 10 minutes makes it ideal for busy schedules, and the versatile ingredients allow for numerous variations to suit any palate.