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Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia

A simple and fragrant dish that transforms tilapia fillets into a buttery, garlicky homemade meal, perfect for quick dinners or as a festive treat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 284
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces tilapia fillets, patted dry Swap for cod or haddock if preferred.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Use olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free version.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Bottled works in a hurry, but fresh brightens the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Optional, for extra brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Or sweet paprika for gentle warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Swap with cilantro for a different herbal note.
  • to taste red pepper flakes Optional, for heat.
  • to taste white wine Optional, splash in the butter for depth.
Serving Suggestions
  • 1 piece lemon, for serving Lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Arrange the tilapia fillets in the baking dish in a single layer. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
  4. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and an extra pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and let the fish rest for 1–2 minutes. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Notes

Pat fish dry to remove excess moisture for better browning. Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, and a thermometer can help ensure fish is cooked to 145°F (63°C).