This air fryer Parmesan white fish recipe is a favorite keto-friendly option for a quick, low-carb dinner. Whether you use tilapia, cod, snapper, or halibut, the crust is flavorful and the fish stays moist. It’s simple to prepare, kid-friendly, and perfect for weeknights.

Air Fryer Parmesan White Fish Recipe
If you’re new to air frying and enjoy seafood, this recipe is a great place to start. It uses fresh, simple ingredients and delivers a satisfying Parmesan crust in minutes. The result is a low-carb dinner that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.
How to Keep Fish From Sticking
To prevent delicate fish from sticking to the air fryer basket, use either reusable perforated silicone mats or single-use perforated parchment sheets. The perforations let hot air circulate while protecting the fish from direct contact with the basket or rack.
- Perforated silicone mats are non-stick, reusable, and available in shapes that fit most air fryer baskets and racks.
- Perforated parchment sheets are convenient, inexpensive, and work especially well with wire baskets or racks. They are single-use and must be used carefully to avoid contact with heating elements.
Perforated Parchment for Air Frying Fish

Perforated parchment sheets are especially useful if your air fryer has a wire basket or rack. They prevent the fish from sticking and allow hot air to circulate evenly under the filets so you can cook without flipping. The downside is that they are not reusable and can burn if they lift and contact the heating element, so use them carefully.

Video: Keto White Fish Recipe in Air Fryer
Different Types of White Fish to Air Fry
Many white fish varieties work with this method. Thinner fillets like tilapia will cook faster, while thicker fish such as cod or halibut need more time. Air fryer models also vary, so start with the suggested time and check for doneness: the fish should flake easily with a fork. After the first batch, you’ll know the ideal timing for your preferred fish and air fryer.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Crusted White Fish (KETO)
To help the cheese adhere, dip the fish in a beaten egg before pressing it into the cheese; note that this adds a few extra calories.
Perforated parchment or a well-oiled basket makes air-frying fish simple. If you don’t have parchment, be sure to oil the basket or tray thoroughly.
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Ingredients
- 2 tilapia filets, or other white fish (about 4–6 ounces each)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil, or oil spray
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, or to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Equipment
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Air Fryer
Instructions
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Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes. Place the Parmesan in a shallow bowl and set aside.

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Drizzle olive oil over the fish or use oil spray. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Press the filets into the Parmesan so both sides are well coated. For a firmer crust, dip the fish in beaten egg before pressing into the cheese (this increases calories).

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Line the air fryer basket or tray with perforated parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lightly spray the surface with oil. Lay the coated fish on the parchment and lightly spray the tops of the filets.

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Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for about 6–12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Exact time depends on fillet thickness and your air fryer model. Top with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Video
Nutrition Information per Serving
Hope you enjoy our air fryer Parmesan white fish and other low-carb recipes.
- Creamy garlic chicken with broccoli
- Healthy air fryer chicken and broccoli stir fry
- Roast chicken with lemon and herbs
- Chicken fajita salad with cumin lime dressing
- More seafood recipes are available on the site.



