Name: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Tilapia & Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each); 2 medium zucchini (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor); 1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs (panko works well for extra crunch); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary); to taste salt; to taste freshly ground black pepper; lemon wedges (for serving)

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Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Tilapia & Zucchini is that perfect quick, wholesome dinner that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. If you love a crispy, cheesy crust on tender fish paired with roasted veggies, this recipe is your new go-to. It’s a simple one-pan meal that balances protein and fresh vegetables beautifully, making weeknight dinners feel a little more special without hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with Italian-inspired flavors and a touch of lemon that brightens everything up. This dish is perfect for busy evenings or whenever you want a wholesome, satisfying meal with easy cleanup.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of this Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Tilapia & Zucchini lies in its simplicity and balance. The Parmesan and breadcrumbs create a golden, crispy crust that locks in moisture, keeping the tilapia fillets tender and flaky. Meanwhile, the zucchini slices roast alongside the fish, absorbing the same garlic and Italian seasoning, which ties the whole dish together. Baking everything on one sheet pan means the flavors mingle subtly without overwhelming the fresh taste of the fish or the veggies. The olive oil ensures everything crisps up nicely, and a squeeze of lemon at the end adds the perfect fresh zing to cut through the richness. This recipe is fail-proof because it uses simple ingredients you likely already have, with clear seasoning proportions that highlight the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Shopping List

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs (panko works well for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Sheet pan or baking tray: A rimmed baking sheet large enough to hold the fish and zucchini in a single layer.
Mixing bowl: To combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
Brush or spoon: For coating the fillets with olive oil.
Spatula or tongs: To transfer fillets and veggies onto the sheet pan.
Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
Knife and cutting board: For slicing zucchini and prepping lemon wedges.

The Method for Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Tilapia & Zucchini

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line your sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup, or lightly grease the pan with olive oil.

Step 2: Mix the Parmesan Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Prep the Tilapia Fillets

Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil on both sides — this helps the crust stick and aids crisping.

Step 4: Apply the Parmesan Mixture

Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture evenly onto the top of each tilapia fillet. Make sure each fillet is well-coated to achieve that signature crunchy crust.

Step 5: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

Place the crusted tilapia fillets on one side of your prepared sheet pan. On the other side, spread the sliced zucchini. Drizzle the zucchini with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle with a bit of salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning if you like.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Bake the sheet pan for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the zucchini is tender and slightly browned around the edges.

Step 7: Serve with a Squeeze of Lemon

Remove from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top brightens the dish and complements the Parmesan crust perfectly.

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer, swap zucchini for fresh asparagus or green beans for a crisp, vibrant side.
During fall, use thinly sliced butternut squash or sweet potato rounds for a sweet, roasted flavor.
Spring calls for baby carrots or snap peas to add color and crunch alongside the fish.
In winter, try roasting brussels sprouts or cauliflower florets with the same seasoning for a cozy, hearty meal.

Learn from These Mistakes

Skipping the drying step: If you don’t pat the tilapia dry before coating, the crust won’t adhere well and may fall off.
Overcrowding the pan: Give the zucchini and fish enough space so they roast instead of steam. This keeps the crust crisp and veggies caramelized.
Baking at too low a temperature: A high temperature is key to crisping the Parmesan crust and roasting zucchini nicely.
Not using fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-grated varieties, resulting in a more flavorful crust.

Save It for Later

This Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Tilapia & Zucchini reheats beautifully in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, keeping the crust crisp and the fish moist. For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish. This recipe is also fantastic for making ahead and popping in the oven after a busy day.

Reader Questions

Can I use other types of fish instead of tilapia?

Absolutely! White, flaky fish like cod, haddock, or snapper work great. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on the thickness of the fillets. For a similar flavor profile, try Lemon Herb Butter Baked Cod for another delicious variation.

What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, simply combine dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary in equal parts. Alternatively, a mix of just dried basil and oregano will still provide that classic Italian flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?

Yes! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes to keep the crust crispy and delicious without gluten. Make sure the Parmesan and other seasonings are also gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables to this sheet pan meal?

Definitely! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the pan. Just be mindful of cooking times and slice veggies thinly so everything cooks evenly. For a fresh side, try pairing this dish with a Zucchini Ribbon Salad With Lemon Parmesan.

One Pan, More Ideas

Garlic Parmesan Pull Apart Potatoes – A cheesy, garlicky side that complements any sheet pan fish recipe perfectly.
Lemon Herb Butter Baked Cod – Another easy fish dinner with fresh lemon and herbs.
Zucchini Ribbon Salad With Lemon Parmesan – A refreshing, no-cook side that pairs beautifully with roasted fish.

The Takeaway

Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Tilapia & Zucchini is a fantastic recipe to keep in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, simple, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something wholesome without sacrificing taste. The crispy Parmesan crust adds texture and richness, while the roasted zucchini keeps things light and fresh. With easy prep, minimal cleanup, and flexible ingredient options, this dish fits seamlessly into any weeknight meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this sheet pan dinner will impress every time.

Make sure to grab fresh Parmesan and quality olive oil for the best results, and don’t forget the lemon wedges — they elevate the flavors to a whole new level. Enjoy your cooking, and happy eating!

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