If you love light, flavorful seafood that feels effortlessly elegant, then this Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It combines tender, flaky tilapia fillets with a bright, zesty lemon punch, savory garlic warmth, and a luscious herb butter sauce that wraps every bite in pure comfort. Perfectly baked to tender perfection in just minutes, this recipe brings simple ingredients together in a way that is both satisfying and impressive, whether you’re cooking for family weeknight dinners or hosting friends. Let me walk you through making it your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe is essential to building layers of flavor without any fuss. Each one plays a role—from the seasoning that amps up the fish’s natural taste, to the butter and fresh lemon that create a beautiful balance of richness and brightness.
- Tilapia fillets (4, 5-6 oz each): Choose fresh or thawed frozen for a tender, flaky base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just a hint of gentle heat and depth.
- Paprika (2 teaspoons): Gives a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the fish.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with fragrant herbs like oregano and basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Butter (5 tablespoons, divided): Key to that indulgent, silky sauce—one tablespoon to grease the pan and the rest combined with garlic and lemon juice creates the magic.
- Fresh garlic (1 teaspoon, minced): Bright and pungent, it brings that signature savory punch.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds refreshing acidity that perfectly balances the richness of the butter.
- Fresh lemon slices (for garnish): Elevate presentation and add a pop of citrus aroma when served.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For those who love a subtle kick.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brightens the final dish with color and a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush a baking dish with one tablespoon of butter, ensuring a non-stick surface and a buttery foundation that will enrich the fish as it bakes.
Step 2: Season the Tilapia
In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this aromatic blend evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets. Layer the fillets in your buttered dish so they bake evenly and absorb every bit of that wonderful seasoning.
Step 3: Create the Herb Butter Sauce
In another bowl, mix the remaining four tablespoons of melted butter with the minced fresh garlic and fresh lemon juice. This sauce is what makes the dish sing—rich with buttery depth, brightened by lemon, and infused with savory garlic.
Step 4: Brush the Butter Mixture
Use a brush or spoon to generously coat the tops of your tilapia fillets with the luscious butter sauce. This step is crucial because it locks moisture in while imparting those delicious flavors during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your fish for 10 to 12 minutes, checking at the 10-minute mark. The tilapia is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. This quick bake ensures the fish stays juicy and tender without drying out.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling red pepper flakes for a subtle spice if you like, then add freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices on top. This final flourish not only adds visual appeal but layers in fresh citrus fragrance and herbal brightness.
How to Serve Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a few lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley instantly elevate this dish, making it feel special and inviting. The lemon slices add a fresh, zesty aroma just as you dig in, and parsley gives a vibrant green pop that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
This Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Light and fluffy rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted seasonal vegetables complement the flavors perfectly. For a fresher approach, serve it with a crisp garden salad or steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining or simply to add a touch of flair, serve the tilapia on a bed of vibrant wilted spinach or alongside colorful quinoa. You can also drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over the top just before serving, or offer a small bowl of the sauce on the side for dipping, making the experience interactive and delightfully indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked tilapia can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the fish and any sauce separate if possible to preserve the texture and freshness. This makes for an easy, nutritious lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cooked tilapia, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The dish will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the fillets overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover tilapia gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain the delicate flaky texture. A quick reheat in a covered skillet over low heat also works well to keep it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the fillets before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice really makes a difference, adding a bright and vibrant acidity that bottled lemon juice can’t match. But if you’re in a pinch, good quality bottled lemon juice can work as a substitute.
Can I substitute the tilapia with another fish?
Yes! Mild white fish like cod, haddock, or sole are great alternatives and will work well with the lemon, garlic, and herb butter flavors.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even a little chopped fresh chili in the butter sauce to give your baked tilapia a fiery kick.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own blend with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. These herbs are key to capturing that lovely Mediterranean-inspired aroma.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in pure harmony. It’s quick enough for busy nights but impressive enough to share with those you love. The buttery, lemony sauce makes every bite shine, and I promise once you try it, this dish will become a cherished staple. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let this easy recipe brighten your dinner table tonight!
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Baked Tilapia with Lemon, Garlic, and Herb Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Baked Tilapia recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy tender fish fillets seasoned with a blend of spices and baked to perfection with a buttery garlic lemon sauce. It’s a quick and healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights, yielding a moist and aromatic dish that pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs and a hint of heat from optional red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 tilapia fillets (fresh or thawed frozen, 5–6 oz each)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Butter Sauce
- 5 tablespoons butter (divided: 1 tablespoon for greasing, 4 tablespoons for sauce)
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic (about 2 medium cloves)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
Garnish
- 1 fresh lemon sliced for garnish
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly brush a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
- Season the tilapia: In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the tilapia fillets, then place the fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the butter sauce: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter with minced fresh garlic and fresh lemon juice, creating a flavorful buttery sauce.
- Apply the sauce: Brush or spoon the butter sauce evenly over the top of each fish fillet for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake the fish: Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Check the internal temperature at 10 minutes to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C), which confirms doneness. If not, continue baking, checking every minute to avoid overcooking.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, sprinkle the fish with optional red pepper flakes, chopped fresh parsley, and garnish with fresh lemon slices. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious tilapia meal.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed frozen tilapia fillets for best results.
- Checking the internal temperature with a food thermometer prevents overcooking and keeps the fish moist.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter fat option, but will slightly change the flavor.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
