This Parmesan pesto tilapia recipe made me smile from the first bite. Inspired by my friend Julie’s pesto chicken, I thought why not try the same thing with fish.

Delicious Fish with Pesto and Cheese

This is undeniably one of the best dishes I’ve ever had. In fact, it’s right up there among my favorites that include Julie’s chicken.

Not only is it delicious, but also super easy to make!

I’ve always enjoyed baked fish, as long as it’s seasoned properly and not overcooked because I don’t want it dried out.

One of the things I appreciate about this parmesan pesto fish is that the pesto keeps it moist.

Since I cook fish quite a bit, I knew the cooking time for tilapia would be shorter than chicken. Chicken is so much thicker and denser than fish.

I tested the thickest part of one of the pieces by prodding it with a fork. When the fish flaked easily, I knew it was done.

Don’t forget about the sides. Next time you make this dish, try these yummy foods that go with tilapia.

Parmesan Pesto Tilapia Ingredients

You don’t need many ingredients for this delectable dish. In fact, all you need are tilapia fillets, pesto, cheese, and tomatoes.

Although you can use any type of cheese, I like Julie’s version with Parmesan.

It has great flavor, but you can use mozzarella if you prefer. Or you can use a blend of different cheeses.

In fact, I added just a little bit of mozzarella to give it that gooey, melty stringiness.

But I didn’t want to overpower the flavor of the Parmesan, so I only added a little.

You also have some flexibility with tomatoes. So if you don’t have small ones, just cut bigger ones into small pieces.

For exact measurements of each ingredient and full directions, go to the recipe card at the bottom of the page. You can even print out the card by using the “print” button.

How to Make Parmesan Pesto Tilapia

First, preheat the oven and spray your baking sheet with nonstick spray. Place the tilapia fillets on the baking sheet.

Next, spread the pesto over the fish. You use may more than the recipe calls for and make it as thick as you want.

Then, sprinkle the cheese over the pesto. You’re layering the flavors that make this dish so delicious.

Finally, place the tomatoes over the cheese. Not only does this add flavor but also appetizing color.

You can serve this however you want. One way is over a bed of pasta, but the way I served it was with a salad.

More Recipes

If you like seafood, try this shrimp and grits recipe. In addition to being delicious, it’s another easy dish with a lot of flavor.

Another baked fish recipe I enjoy is this pecan-crusted fish. It’s just as easy to make and has a rich depth of flavor.

For dessert, you’ll love this apple cake. It only has 2 ingredients, yet it tastes out of this world.

See this recipe shared at Weekend Potluck, Meal Plan Monday, and Full Plate Thursday.

Please feel free to share!