Some evenings, after a long day, I crave something light yet satisfying that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. This baked lemon butter tilapia fits that need perfectly. It’s all about that moment when the kitchen fills with the bright scent of fresh lemon mingling with garlic and butter—inviting and comforting at once.
One particular night stands out. I came home exhausted, the kind of tired that makes you want to collapse on the couch. But I knew I wanted something nourishing without fuss. As soon as I slid the fish into the oven, the aroma began to rise, filling every corner with hints of citrus and warmth. Sitting down to eat, I savored the tender flakes, each bite bursting with zesty richness, a perfect balance that felt like a gentle reward for the day. It was simple, yes, but it felt like a little celebration of the everyday.
- Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- The lemon butter sauce adds vibrant flavor without overpowering the mild tilapia.
- Light and healthy, yet satisfying enough to please the whole family.
- Minimal ingredients mean less prep and cleanup.
- Fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
If you’re worried about handling fish, this recipe is very forgiving—just bake until it flakes easily. The lemon butter sauce keeps it moist and flavorful, so even beginners can feel confident.
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Baked Lemon Butter Tilapia
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A simple and delicious baked tilapia recipe featuring tender fish fillets topped with a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the tilapia fillets in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to mix.
Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the tilapia fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I substitute another fish for tilapia?
Yes, mild white fish like cod or haddock work well with this lemon butter sauce.
What side dishes go best with this recipe?
Steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad complement the flavors nicely.
Can I prepare this in advance?
It’s best fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately. Assemble and bake just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, it contains no gluten ingredients.
Ready to bring a fresh, flavorful twist to your weeknight dinners? Give this baked lemon butter tilapia a try—you might just find your new favorite quick meal.