Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this Baked Tortilla Crusted Tilapia! With a crispy, golden crust made from crushed tortilla chips and a zesty mayonnaise blend, this dish is not only bursting with flavor but also takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate. Whether you're a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Dive into the world of mouthwatering fish that’s both healthy and satisfying—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the tilapia will cook evenly and the tortilla crust will become crispy.
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture will serve as a flavorful base for the tilapia.
- Place the tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Make sure the fillets are spaced evenly apart for even cooking.
- Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a generous layer of the mayonnaise mixture over the top of each tilapia fillet. Ensure that the fillets are well-coated for maximum flavor.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed tortilla chips and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the crushed chips. This mixture will create a crunchy topping for the fish.
- Sprinkle the tortilla chip and cheese mixture evenly over the mayonnaise-coated tilapia fillets. Press down gently to help the topping adhere to the fish.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The tortilla crust should be golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tilapia rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a more flavorful dish.
- Serve the baked tortilla crusted tilapia with your choice of sides, such as rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious and crispy dish!
Tips
- Perfectly Preheat: Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking. This ensures that your tilapia cooks evenly and the tortilla crust becomes irresistibly crispy.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skimp on the mayonnaise mixture! A generous layer not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor profile of the fish, making each bite a delight.
- Crush Those Chips: For the best texture, crush your tortilla chips to a consistent size. This will help create an even, crunchy topping that sticks beautifully to the fish.
- Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on the baking time—15-20 minutes is perfect, but every oven is different. Check for doneness by ensuring the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the tilapia to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Serve with Style: Pair your tilapia with fresh sides like a vibrant salad or fluffy rice to complement the flavors. A squeeze of lime over the top just before serving adds a refreshing finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 375kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
