Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan lemon butter tilapia recipe that comes together in just 22 minutes. Tender tilapia fillets are cooked in a rich lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and paprika, then baked to perfection for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 tilapia fillets
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the tilapia.
- Melt Butter: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, preparing the base for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Add Lemon and Paprika: Stir in the lemon juice and paprika into the skillet to create a tangy and slightly smoky sauce.
- Season Fish: Season the tilapia fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor.
- Arrange Fillets: Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over each fillet to coat evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the fish to another dish for baking.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference for more or less tanginess.
- Tilapia cooks quickly; avoid overbaking to maintain its moist texture.
- For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
