Some evenings, all I crave is a meal that feels both light and satisfying. That’s exactly what this baked lemon butter tilapia delivers—a tender, flaky fish kissed by a zesty, buttery sauce that makes every bite feel special without any fuss.
One night not long ago, I came home after a day that stretched on forever. The kind of day where your feet ache, and your mind just wants to switch off. I slid this dish into the oven, and as the kitchen filled with the bright scent of lemon and garlic, I felt a little lift inside. The buttery aroma mingled with a subtle hint of paprika woke up my senses gently, as if whispering, “you deserve this.” When I finally sat down to eat, the fish flaked perfectly, the sauce glistening like a promise of simple goodness. It wasn’t just dinner—it was a quiet moment of calm, a pause that reminded me how food can nourish more than just the body.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The lemon butter sauce brightens the mild tilapia with fresh, vibrant flavors
- Light but filling, perfect for anyone looking for a healthy dinner option
- Minimal ingredients, but maximum taste and aroma
- Easy to pair with your favorite sides—think roasted veggies or a crisp salad
If you’re worried about complicated prep or long cook times, this dish is a gentle reminder that elegance can be effortless. The ingredients come together in a buttery, citrusy harmony that’s both refreshing and comforting.
PrintBaked Lemon Butter Tilapia
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
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
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the tilapia fillets in a single layer in a 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 the fish in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the fillets.
Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
FAQ
Can I use other types of fish? Absolutely. While tilapia works beautifully here for its delicate texture, you can try similar white fish fillets like cod or haddock.
How do I know when it’s done? The fish should flake easily with a fork and look opaque all the way through. It usually takes around 12 to 15 minutes in the oven.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance, but it’s best to bake the fish fresh to enjoy its full flavor and texture.
What sides pair well with this? Light salads, steamed vegetables, or even a quinoa bowl complement the flavors nicely.
This baked lemon butter tilapia is a little reminder that quick meals can still feel like a treat. Give it a try, and see how easy weeknight dinners can become your favorites.