Description
This Baked Lemon Butter Tilapia is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish featuring tender tilapia fillets drizzled with a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this healthy and delicious meal is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a well-balanced dinner.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (or more, to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Season the Tilapia:
- Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Assemble in the Baking Dish:
- Place tilapia fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets.
5. Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque.
6. Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley (if desired).
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For extra flavor: Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the butter mixture.
- For a spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave on medium power.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American