When the sun begins to set after a long day, and I’m in need of a meal that feels special yet comes together with ease, I find myself reaching for MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan. The first time I whipped up this dish, the tantalizing aroma of buttery, cheesy goodness had my family eagerly gathering in the kitchen, smiles on their faces, ready to dive into something delicious.
With flaky tilapia fillets nestled under a crispy layer of Parmesan, this recipe has quickly become a weeknight hero. It offers a heavenly balance of flavor and texture, proving that healthy seafood doesn’t have to be dull or difficult to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just looking to spice up the ordinary weeknight routine, this baked tilapia will make you feel like a culinary star without the fuss. Just a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes of your time are all it takes to elevate your dinner table, leaving everyone asking for second helpings. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones!
Why will you love MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan?
Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and 15 minutes of cooking, this dish ensures that you spend less time in the kitchen and more with your loved ones.
Irresistible Aroma: The buttery, cheesy fragrance wafting through your home makes everyone eager to dig in; it’s a comforting smell that brings family together.
Flaky Perfection: Experience the delightful texture of tilapia that flakes effortlessly, perfectly complemented by a golden, crispy Parmesan crust.
Crowd Pleaser: Elevating the ordinary weeknight routine, this dish is perfect for casual dinner parties and ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to experiment by swapping tilapia for a variety of firm fish or trying different cheeses; the deliciousness won’t change!
Healthy Yet Indulgent: Enjoy a meal that feels a bit indulgent while still being nutritious; this recipe showcases how seafood can be both delicious and healthy.
MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan Ingredients
For the Fish
- Tilapia Fillets – A lean protein packed with nutrients; substitute with cod or red snapper if desired.
- Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed adds a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the tilapia.
For the Topping
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Creates that irresistible, crispy crust; opt for a dairy-free version if necessary.
- Butter (room temperature) – Adds rich flavor and helps form a beautiful crust; plant-based butter works too!
- Mayonnaise – Keeps the fish moist and flavorful; Greek yogurt is a great, healthier alternative.
- Green Onions (finely chopped) – Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor; chives can be a perfect substitute.
Seasonings
- Seasoning Salt – Boosts the overall flavor; Old Bay seasoning is delightful here!
- Dried Basil – Contributes aromatic herbal notes; use fresh basil if you have it on hand.
- Black Pepper – Adds a nice kick for balance.
- Hot Pepper Sauce – Optional, but it gives a fun kick; adjust to your liking!
Take this recipe for MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan and let its simple ingredients take your dinner to new heights!
How to Make MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), inviting a cozy warmth into your kitchen as you prepare for a delicious meal.
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Grease a baking dish lightly with room temperature butter, ensuring a non-stick surface for your tilapia fillets.
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Mix together the softened butter, mayonnaise, finely chopped green onions, seasoning salt, dried basil, black pepper, and hot pepper sauce in a bowl until well combined. This will create a flavorful topping.
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Arrange the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish, then drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over them to brighten the flavors.
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Spread the prepared mixture evenly over the fillets, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
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Sprinkle generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese over the top, creating that irresistible crispy crust.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes effortlessly with a fork and the cheese turns golden brown.
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Cool slightly after removing from the oven, as this will help the flavors settle before serving.
Optional: Squeeze extra lemon juice over the fillets right before serving for an added zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan in advance is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings! You can mix the topping (butter, mayonnaise, green onions, seasoning salt, basil, black pepper, and hot pepper sauce) up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pat dry and season the tilapia fillets, then place them in the baking dish with lemon juice before refrigerating them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the prepared mixture over the fillets, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake as directed for a delicious, quick meal that tastes just as great as if made fresh!
What to Serve with MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan?
Creating a delightful dining experience doesn’t stop at the main dish; it’s all about the perfect companions to round out your meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable provides a fresh, crunchy contrast that enhances the tilapia’s rich flavors.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and creamy, these potatoes add a comforting element to your plate, making each bite feel indulgent.
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Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy, a lemon-infused couscous salad with herbs brings a refreshing touch, perfectly balancing the savory fish.
A side of couscous salad brightens the table and offers a delightful contrast in texture, making every mouthful a burst of flavor.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing create a classic salad that pairs beautifully with the tilapia’s Parmesan crust.
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Sautéed Spinach: Quickly cooked with garlic, this vibrant side adds a touch of elegance and is packed with nutrients, complementing the dish’s health aspect.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay, with its crisp acidity, elevates the dining experience and harmonizes with the fish’s flavors.
Each of these pairings not only enhances the meal but also creates an unforgettable dining experience that will leave your family asking for more!
How to Store and Freeze MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help maintain the flavor and moisture of your baked tilapia.
Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To revive the crispy texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will keep the crust crunchy and delicious.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the tilapia at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain the quality of MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan.
MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe by swapping ingredients and customizing to your taste!
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Fish Swap: Substitute tilapia with cod, orange roughy, or even salmon for a different flavor profile. Each fish brings its own unique touch to the dish.
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Cheese Choice: Use feta or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a distinct twist. These cheeses melt beautifully and enhance the dish’s creaminess.
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Dairy-Free Delight: For a lactose-free option, replace the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative and plant-based butter for the topping. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!
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Herb Boost: Swap dried basil for fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This freshens up the dish and adds vibrancy to your meal.
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Veggie Addition: Layer thinly sliced tomatoes over the fillets before baking for extra moisture and flavor, transforming the dish into a garden-fresh delight.
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Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who love a kick of heat. Adjust the spice level based on your taste preferences.
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Citrus Twist: Experiment with lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist that pairs beautifully with the fish. It will brighten flavors and add an exciting twist!
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Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunch, combine breadcrumbs with your cheese topping. This creates a delightful texture contrast that takes the dish to the next level.
Expert Tips for MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan
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Full Thaw Required: Ensure your tilapia fillets are completely thawed if using frozen; this prevents excess moisture, leading to a soggy crust.
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Crispy Perfection: Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for a beautifully crispy topping. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
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Check for Doneness: Test the fish by seeing if it flakes easily; this ensures your tilapia remains tender. Overcooking can result in rubbery texture.
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Customize Your Crust: Feel free to use different cheeses for the topping—mozzarella or feta can add new flavors while keeping the main focus on that delightful MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan.
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Add Freshness: Lift flavors even more by garnishing with fresh herbs or additional lemon zest before serving, adding a pop of freshness to the dish!
MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan Recipe FAQs
How should I select ripe tilapia fillets?
Absolutely! When selecting tilapia fillets, look for a vibrant, translucent color with no dark spots or discoloration. The fish should smell fresh and mildly oceany, rather than fishy. If the fillet is slightly resilient to the touch and moist but not slimy, you know you’re on the right track!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers of your MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s cooled slightly before sealing to preserve the delicious flavors and moisture.
Can I freeze baked tilapia, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan, allow it to cool completely first. Then, place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my tilapia doesn’t flake easily when baking?
No worries! If your tilapia isn’t flaking as expected, it might need a few extra minutes in the oven. Check for doneness by testing with a fork in the thickest part of the fillet—it should come apart easily. If it seems undercooked, return it to the oven and check every 2 minutes until perfect!
Are there any dietary considerations for making this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe contains dairy in the form of Parmesan cheese and butter. You can easily switch to a dairy-free butter and a lactose-free cheese for those with lactose intolerance. Additionally, always check the mayonnaise ingredients for allergens, as some brands may include eggs or other common allergens.
Can I use other types of fish instead of tilapia?
Certainly! MaMa’s Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan can be easily adapted with other firm white fish such as cod, red snapper, or even salmon. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets, so adjust accordingly!
MaMa's Supper Club Tilapia Parmesan: Irresistibly Crispy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish lightly with room temperature butter.
- Mix together softened butter, mayonnaise, green onions, seasoning salt, dried basil, black pepper, and hot pepper sauce in a bowl until well combined.
- Arrange tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Spread the prepared mixture evenly over the fillets.
- Sprinkle generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the fish flakes easily and the cheese is golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.