The Easiest Baked Tilapia
This Easy Baked Tilapia recipe is a simple, comforting meal that's healthy, fast, and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's ready in under 20 minutes.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet or baking dish
- Parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup (optional)
- Small bowl
- paper towels for drying fish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets fresh or frozen, just make sure they're fully thawed and patted dry
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper The absolute essentials for seasoning. Don't be shy!
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika Adds a lovely warmth and subtle color.
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme A classic pairing with fish and lemon.
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano Brings a little Mediterranean sunshine.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted This creates the gorgeous sauce that keeps the fish moist and flavorful. Olive oil works too.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Brightens everything up and cuts through the richness of the butter.
- 0.25 teaspoon lemon zest Adds an extra layer of intense lemon flavor without the acidity. Don't skip this!
- 1 lemon sliced into rounds, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional): A little pinch for a tiny kick, if you like it!
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color right before serving.
Instructions
- Prep the oven and pan. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. You could also use a baking dish.
- Season the fish. Pat the tilapia fillets really dry with paper towels. This is key for good texture! Place them on your prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sprinkle the paprika, thyme, and oregano evenly over the fillets.
- Make the buttery lemon sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Pour and top. Pour the glorious butter and lemon mixture evenly over each tilapia fillet. Arrange the lemon slices around or on top of the fish.
- Bake! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets will take a little longer. I usually check mine around the 10-minute mark.
- Garnish and serve. Carefully remove the fish from the oven. Garnish with red pepper flakes (if using) and fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately! It's delicious with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.
Notes
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
- Fast: From start to finish, you're looking at under 20 minutes.
- Easy: Minimal chopping, minimal steps.
- Healthy: Lean protein and healthy fats.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Tilapia is a mild fish. Substitutions & Additions:
- Swap the Fish: Works beautifully with other white fish like cod, sole, snapper, or even flounder.
- Use Olive Oil: Swap butter for 4 tablespoons of good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Add Veggies: Toss quick-cooking veggies like asparagus spears, broccoli florets, or cherry tomatoes onto the baking sheet.
- Change the Herbs: Try dried dill, Italian seasoning, or dried rosemary. Fresh herbs like chopped dill or chives are also fantastic.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the butter sauce. Tips for Success:
- Pat it Dry: Removing excess moisture helps prevent steaming.
- Don't Overcook: Keep an eye on it after 10 minutes. Overcooked fish is dry.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Delivers the best flavor.
- Zest Before Juicing: Always zest your lemon before cutting.
- Don't Crowd the Pan: Give fillets space for even baking. How to Store It:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in the microwave (low-medium power) or in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Fast: From start to finish, you're looking at under 20 minutes.
- Easy: Minimal chopping, minimal steps.
- Healthy: Lean protein and healthy fats.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Tilapia is a mild fish. Substitutions & Additions:
- Swap the Fish: Works beautifully with other white fish like cod, sole, snapper, or even flounder.
- Use Olive Oil: Swap butter for 4 tablespoons of good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Add Veggies: Toss quick-cooking veggies like asparagus spears, broccoli florets, or cherry tomatoes onto the baking sheet.
- Change the Herbs: Try dried dill, Italian seasoning, or dried rosemary. Fresh herbs like chopped dill or chives are also fantastic.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the butter sauce. Tips for Success:
- Pat it Dry: Removing excess moisture helps prevent steaming.
- Don't Overcook: Keep an eye on it after 10 minutes. Overcooked fish is dry.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Delivers the best flavor.
- Zest Before Juicing: Always zest your lemon before cutting.
- Don't Crowd the Pan: Give fillets space for even baking. How to Store It:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in the microwave (low-medium power) or in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes.