Why This Parmesan Crusted Walleye Recipe Is So Good
If you’re looking for a delicious way to prepare walleye, this parmesan crusted recipe is hard to beat. It delivers incredible flavor and texture while still being super easy to make. If you are looking for an alternative to frying walleye, this should be your go too. It’s a recipe full of flavor that the whole family will enjoy. Here’s why it works so well:
- The parmesan cheese forms a crispy, golden-brown crust
- Breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch to the coating
- Simple seasonings enhance the walleye’s mild, sweet taste
- Butter keeps the fish moist and tender as it bakes
- Lemon brightens up all the rich, savory ingredients
This baked walleye recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal but also impressive enough for dinner parties or date nights. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch as it disappears off everyone’s plates!
Parmesan Crusted Walleye Ingredients
One of the best things about this recipe is how few ingredients it requires. You likely already have most of them in your kitchen. Here’s what to grab:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Walleye fillets | 4 (6 oz each) |
| Grated parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Seasoned breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Melted butter | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon wedges | 4 |
Make sure your walleye fillets are boneless and skinless. You can use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor, but pre-grated is fine too.
Step-by-Step Parmesan Crusted Walleye Directions
Prep the Coating & Fish
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking sheet.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the parmesan, breadcrumbs, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Brush both sides of the walleye fillets with melted butter.
Coat the Walleye Fillets
- Dredge each buttered walleye fillet in the parmesan mixture, pressing it on to coat both sides.
- Place the coated fillets on your prepared baking sheet.
Bake Until Crispy
- Bake the parmesan crusted walleye for about 15-20 minutes.
- The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the coating is golden brown.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
- Be sure the walleye is completely done. It should be flaky.
Tips for the Best Results
A few simple tweaks can take your parmesan crusted walleye from good to restaurant-quality great:
- Pat the walleye fillets dry before brushing them with butter. This helps the coating stick better.
- Grate your parmesan cheese for the biggest flavor punch. Pre-grated tends to be drier.
- Experiment with adding dried herbs or other spices to the coating for a flavor twist.
- Flip the fillets halfway through baking time for the crispiest texture on both sides.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking to get the coating extra browned and crunchy.
- Let the fish rest for 5 minutes out of the oven before serving. This keeps it juicier.
What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Walleye
This baked walleye pairs well with all sorts of tasty side dishes. Some classic options include:
Starches
- Buttered egg noodles
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Rice pilaf or risotto
- Crusty bread for mopping up sauce
Vegetables
- Simple mixed green salad
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus
- Sauteed spinach with garlic
- Glazed carrots or green beans
Sauces
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Creamy dill tartar sauce
- Zesty cocktail sauce
- Garlic aioli or remoulade
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your pairings! This versatile walleye recipe can match all kinds of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fish?
Definitely! This parmesan crusted recipe works well with any mild white fish like cod, haddock, bass, grouper, etc. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
Is the recipe gluten-free?
This walleye recipe as written is not gluten-free, as it uses regular wheat breadcrumbs. However, you can easily swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely crushed GF crackers.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover parmesan crusted walleye can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to re-crisp the coating.
What if my coating isn’t sticking?
Make sure to pat the walleye fillets dry, then brush them generously with melted butter before coating in the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture. Pressing the coating on helps too.
With this easy parmesan crusted walleye recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never run out of tasty ideas for your favorite fish. It’s sure to become a go-to meal the whole family will love!