Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia Recipe
This Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia Recipe is one I make again and again. It is simple. It is comforting. It feels special without being hard.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Lemon slices for topping
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This helps the fish cook evenly and stay tender.
Prepare the Baking Dish
- Lightly grease a baking dish. You can also line it with foil or parchment paper.
Place the Tilapia
- Lay the tilapia fillets flat in the dish. Leave space so heat moves evenly.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper and paprika.
Pour the Sauce
- Spoon the garlic butter sauce over each fillet. Make sure all surfaces are coated.
Add Seasoning
- Sprinkle dried parsley or Italian seasoning evenly across the fish.
Add Lemon Slices
- Place lemon slices on top. They add brightness and keep fish moist.
Bake the Fish
- Bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes. Fish should flake easily with a fork.
Check for Doneness
- Tilapia is ready when white and opaque. Do not overcook or it dries out.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove from oven. Sprinkle fresh parsley. Serve warm and fresh.
Notes
- Use fresh tilapia for best texture and flavor.
- Pat fish dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
- Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
- Swap butter with olive oil for lighter taste.
- Add grated parmesan for a cheesy finish.