Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Buttery Baked Tilapia with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 87 reviews

This Buttery Baked Tilapia with Garlic and Lemon is a quick and flavorful seafood dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Baking tender tilapia fillets with a fragrant garlic-lemon butter sauce and topping them with crunchy toasted panko breadcrumbs delivers a delightful combination of textures and bright, savory flavors. Ready in just 17 minutes, this recipe highlights simple ingredients to create an elegant yet easy meal.

  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 (6 ounce) tilapia fillets (1½ pounds total)
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

  • 5½ tablespoons salted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

Other

  • 2 lemons, sliced into rounds
  • ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Fresh flat leaf parsley, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the center to ensure even cooking of the tilapia.
  2. Season the Tilapia: Pat the tilapia fillets dry thoroughly using a paper towel to help the seasoning stick. Sprinkle all over with sea salt and paprika for a balanced flavor profile.
  3. Prepare Garlic Lemon Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and mix in the grated lemon zest to infuse a bright citrus note.
  4. Assemble for Baking: Lay lemon slices in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to add moisture and aroma during baking. Place the seasoned tilapia fillets on top of the lemon slices, then drizzle evenly with the garlic lemon butter sauce.
  5. Bake the Tilapia: Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
  6. Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs: While the tilapia bakes, melt the remaining 1½ tablespoons of butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir continuously until they turn golden brown and crisp, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. Serve: Divide the baked tilapia fillets among plates. Sprinkle each portion generously with the toasted panko breadcrumbs, a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper, and minced parsley if using. Serve with the roasted lemon rounds on the side for extra zest.

Notes

  • Patting the fish dry is key to achieving a nice texture and ensuring the seasoning adheres well.
  • The lemon slices beneath the fish help keep the tilapia moist and infuse a subtle citrus flavor.
  • Use freshly grated lemon zest for the best aromatic impact.
  • Watch the panko breadcrumbs carefully while toasting to avoid burning; stir continuously.
  • Tilapia is a mild fish, so seasoning and butter add much-needed richness and flavor.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter alternatives.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/buttery-baked-tilapia-with-garlic-and-lemon-recipe/