Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia

If you’re craving a simple, flavorful, and healthy seafood dinner, this Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia is the perfect solution. Light, flaky tilapia fillets are drenched in a savory garlic butter sauce, seasoned with lemon and herbs, and baked to tender perfection. It’s a fuss-free recipe that’s perfect for both beginner cooks and seafood lovers alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Weeknight Meal – Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
Healthy & Low-Carb – Great for light dinners and balanced eating.
Minimal Ingredients – Made with pantry staples and fresh herbs.
Easy Cleanup – All baked in one dish, no mess and no stress.
Versatile – Pairs with your favorite grains, veggies, or pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Tilapia:
4 fresh or thawed tilapia fillets
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)

For Garnish & Serving:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or sautéed vegetables

Tools You’ll Need
Baking dish or oven-safe tray
Small mixing bowl
Spoon or basting brush
Measuring spoons
Oven mitts
Spatula or serving fork

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried parsley.
2. Mix until fully combined to create a fragrant and flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Prep the Tilapia Fillets

1. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Place them in the baking dish in a single layer, skin side down if applicable.

Step 4: Apply the Garlic Butter Mixture

1. Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each tilapia fillet.
2. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the seasoned butter for full flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Tilapia

1. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. For a golden finish, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from oven and let the tilapia rest for 1-2 minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
3. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfect Baked Tilapia
Pat Dry Before Baking – This ensures a crisp finish and allows flavors to absorb.
Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest – It brightens the whole dish and complements the butter.
Customize the Herbs – Try thyme, dill, or Italian seasoning for a twist.
Add Veggies – Bake with sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a one-pan meal.
Use Fresh Garlic – For the boldest flavor, fresh minced garlic works best.

Serving Suggestions
This garlicky tilapia is ultra versatile. Here are a few side dish ideas to round out your meal:

Grains & Starches:
Lemon Herb Rice
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Couscous or Quinoa
Buttered Orzo

Vegetables:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Steamed Broccoli
Garlic Green Beans
Grilled Zucchini

Extras:
Garden Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Crusty Artisan Bread
Corn on the Cob
Cucumber Tomato Salad

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Place leftover tilapia in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 1 month.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on 50% power in 30-second intervals to prevent drying out.
Skillet: Gently reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tilapia?
   Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.
2. Is tilapia a healthy fish?
   Tilapia is a lean source of protein and low in calories, making it a healthy option when prepared simply.
3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, you can use margarine or even olive oil for a dairy-free version.
4. What’s the best way to know if tilapia is done?
   Check that it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque. The internal temp should be 145°F (63°C).
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   You can prep the garlic butter and coat the fish, then store in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia is a dinner you’ll want to make again and again. It’s packed with buttery, garlicky flavor, perfectly flaky, and takes minimal effort to prepare. Whether you’re feeding the family or making a quick solo dinner, this dish is satisfying, versatile, and guaranteed to impress.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your tilapia turns out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 275 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 420mg

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