Baked lemon butter tilapia is a quick fish dinner with tender, flaky fillets coated in a garlic, lemon and paprika butter. Whisk the sauce in one bowl, pour it over the fish and let the oven do the work. Serve it warm with rice, steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

4 tilapia fillets
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (juice and zest)
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture:

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Arrange the Tilapia:

Place the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets, ensuring each piece is well coated.

4. Bake the Tilapia:

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For extra color, you can broil the fish for 1-2 minutes at the end.

5. Serve:

Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Serving Suggestions

With Rice: Pair with fluffy white rice, brown rice, or a pilaf for a hearty meal.
With Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or roasted carrots.
With Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest enhance the flavor of the dish.
Don’t Overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or thyme for an herbal note.

This Baked Lemon Butter Tilapia recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. With its tender, flaky texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it out today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family who love seafood!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when baked tilapia is done?

Bake the fillets at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes. They are ready when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Fish is safely cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried?

Yes. Swap the 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, and sprinkle a little extra on top when you serve.

What should I serve with lemon butter tilapia?

Fluffy white or brown rice or a pilaf makes a filling meal. Steamed broccoli, asparagus or roasted carrots work well, and a green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich butter sauce.

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Baked Lemon Butter Tilapia Recipe