Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia is a light, flaky, and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. With a rich garlic butter sauce and tender, baked tilapia fillets, this recipe is simple to prepare and delivers delicious results in under 30 minutes. It’s healthy, versatile, and pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or salad.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

tilapia filletsunsalted buttergarlic cloves (minced)lemon juicepaprikasaltblack pepperfresh parsley (for garnish)lemon slices (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.

Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Place tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish.

Top with lemon slices if using.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12–15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking for a richer flavor.

Include red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Swap lemon juice with lime for a citrus twist.

Use cod or haddock in place of tilapia if preferred.

Add cherry tomatoes and green beans to the pan for a complete one-dish meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, just until warmed through.Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the fish tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tilapia?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

What’s the best way to tell if tilapia is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and appear white and opaque.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables, rice, couscous, or a fresh salad work great.

Is tilapia a healthy choice?

Yes, it’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a great lean protein option.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter and marinate the fish briefly, but bake just before serving for best results.

How do I keep the fish from sticking?

Grease the baking dish well or line it with parchment paper.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just verify individual labels if needed.

Can I add herbs?

Absolutely—thyme, dill, or oregano can enhance the flavor.

Can I broil at the end?

Yes, broil for 1–2 minutes for a slightly crisp top, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia is a fast, flavorful, and foolproof way to enjoy a healthy seafood dinner. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this dish is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, it’s a delicious and reliable go-to recipe that’s sure to satisfy.

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