How to Cook Schwan's Ancient Herb & Parmesan Crusted Tilapia: Step-by-Step Recipe

Cooking Schwan's Ancient Herb & Parmesan Crusted Tilapia is quick, easy, and delicious. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time, including how to enhance flavor with simple spice techniques. This guide covers oven temperature, cooking time, allergen information, and pro tips to elevate your meal in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 Schwan's Ancient Herb & Parmesan Crusted Tilapia fillets (frozen)
• Optional spices: paprika, lemon pepper, dried dill, garlic powder
• 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (optional)
• 1 tsp olive oil (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Place rack in center position.
2. Prepare baking sheet: Lightly grease with oil or line with parchment paper. Do not thaw fillets - cooking from frozen ensures crisp crust.
3. Arrange fillets: Place frozen tilapia on baking sheet with 1-inch spacing. For even cooking, flip fillets halfway through baking time.
4. Season (optional): Before baking, sprinkle lightly with paprika for smoky depth or garlic powder for savory notes. For extra flavor, toast spices in dry pan for 30 seconds before applying.
5. Bake: Cook for 18-22 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and crust is golden brown. Check doneness by flaking with a fork - fish should be opaque throughout.
6. Finish with freshness: Immediately after baking, sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice for bright, restaurant-quality flavor.

Spice Enhancement Tips

Spice	When to Apply	Flavor Impact	Best Pairing
Paprika	Before baking	Smoky depth, rich color	Grilled vegetables
Lemon Pepper	After baking	Citrusy brightness	Steamed asparagus
Dried Dill	After baking	Herbaceous freshness	Mashed potatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook Schwan's tilapia from frozen?

Yes! Schwan's tilapia is designed for cooking directly from frozen. Thawing releases moisture that makes the crust soggy. Bake at 425°F for 18-22 minutes for perfect crispiness. Always check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

What's the best oven temperature and cooking time?

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake frozen fillets for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through. The crust should be golden brown and the fish should flake easily with a fork. Use a food thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Are there allergens in this product?

Yes. Schwan's Ancient Herb & Parmesan Crusted Tilapia contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (Parmesan cheese). It's processed in facilities handling other allergens. Always check packaging for current allergen information before consumption.

How can I tell if my tilapia is done?

Properly cooked tilapia will reach 165°F internally. Visually, the fish turns opaque white, flakes easily with a fork, and the crust is golden brown. Avoid overcooking - tilapia becomes dry if cooked beyond 22 minutes.

Storage & Spice Tips

• Spice storage: Keep spices in airtight containers away from heat and light. Ground spices last 6-12 months; whole spices last 2-3 years.
• Toast spices: For maximum flavor, toast spices in dry pan for 30-60 seconds before applying. This releases essential oils for richer taste.
• Citrus finishing: Add lemon zest and juice after baking to preserve bright, fresh notes that heat would otherwise destroy.

With these simple steps, Schwan's Ancient Herb & Parmesan Crusted Tilapia transforms from a quick frozen meal to a restaurant-quality dish in under 25 minutes. Remember: cooking from frozen ensures crisp crust, and finishing with fresh herbs and citrus makes all the difference!