Description
Tender, flaky, and bursting with garlicky goodness, this Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia is a deliciously simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light weekend dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, this wholesome seafood recipe is on the table in under 30 minutes.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Tilapia:
4 tilapia fillets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For Garnish & Serving:
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley, chopped
Steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
-
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
-
Stir until well mixed. This fragrant mixture will be brushed over the tilapia.
Step 3: Season the Tilapia
-
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
-
Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
-
Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
Step 4: Bake the Tilapia
-
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
-
Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
-
Tilapia is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional)
-
If you like a slightly golden top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
-
Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
-
Remove from the oven and let rest for a minute or two.
-
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
-
Plate with your favorite sides like fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crisp roasted veggies.
Notes
Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Fish – If using frozen fillets, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Don’t Overcook – Tilapia cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it and remove it once it flakes easily.
Customize the Herbs – Try adding dill, thyme, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor twist.
Add Veggies – Bake with thin slices of zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers for a complete one-pan meal.
Serve Immediately – Tilapia tastes best fresh out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American