Name: Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 (4 to 6-ounce) tilapia fillets; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Lemon wedges, for serving

Why You’ll Love Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia Recipe

It’s fast and easy: prep in about 10–15 minutes and bake until flaky.
The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon gives delicate tilapia fillets a bright, savory flavor that’s appealing even to people who don’t usually like fish.
It’s versatile — you can serve it with rice, potatoes, vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the light, buttery taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
tilapia fillets
butter (melted)
fresh lemon juice
fresh garlic (minced)
salt
black pepper
(optional: chopped parsley for garnish, lemon slices or lemon zest)

Directions

Preheat your oven.
Rinse and pat dry the tilapia fillets.
Place the fillets in a baking dish. Pour melted butter and lemon juice over them. Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
Optionally, add lemon slices or a sprinkle of parsley for extra flavor and garnish.
Bake until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork — timing depends on thickness, but generally until the fish is cooked through and tender.

Servings and timing

Serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: about 25–30 minutes

Variations

Add a dash of paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
Substitute tilapia with cod, haddock, or another mild white fish.
Top with capers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before baking for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

Let leftover fish cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave gently in short intervals, covered to retain moisture.

FAQs

What kind of tilapia works best for this recipe?

Fresh tilapia fillets work best for flavor and texture. If using frozen tilapia, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes — olive oil is a great substitute if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version.

How can I tell when the fish is done?

The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Can I add herbs or spices for extra flavor?

Absolutely. Parsley, dill, paprika, or red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor nicely.

What can I serve with this tilapia?

Great side options include steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, couscous, or a green salad.

Can I use this recipe for other white fish?

Yes — this method works well with cod, halibut, haddock, or swai.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

Yes — it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into keto or low-carb plans.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes — double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Keep an eye on cooking time to ensure even doneness.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter.

Can I bake vegetables with the fish?

Yes — thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can bake alongside the fish. Adjust timing if needed.

Conclusion

This baked lemon garlic butter tilapia recipe is a perfect blend of ease and elegance. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a no-fuss dinner option, its light yet flavorful profile makes it a go-to choice. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.