Introduction

Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a simple, flavorful dish that comes together quickly. The buttery lemon garlic marinade enhances the delicate fish, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Serve it with rice and veggies for a complete meal.

Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 large tilapia fillets
1 large onion, thick sliced
2 cups peppers, cut into medium thick strips
1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
2 teaspoons minced garlic
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or mixed dry herbs)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (substitute with regular paprika if needed)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3-4 fresh lemon slices

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Step 2: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and position the rack in the upper third of the oven.
Step 3: On a baking tray, spread the sliced onion and pepper strips in a single layer.
Step 4: Place the tilapia fillets on top of the vegetables and generously apply the marinade on both sides of the fish.
Step 5: Arrange the fresh lemon slices over the fish.
Step 6: Bake in the oven on the upper third rack for 10-12 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Serve the baked tilapia on a bed of rice with the roasted vegetables. Spoon some of the leftover lemon butter sauce from the pan over the fish for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika; it will still provide lovely color and mild flavor.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top before serving for a fresh burst of taste.
Try swapping tilapia for cod or haddock for a different but equally delicious fish option.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Storage

Store any leftover baked tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the fish from drying out. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be added to salads or sandwiches the next day.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before applying the marinade to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

What can I serve with baked tilapia?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous, along with a side of sautéed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 112 reviews

Delicious and healthy Baked Tilapia in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, enhanced with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. This recipe features tender tilapia fillets baked with fresh peppers, onions, and lemon slices, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Author: Zane
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Vegetables

4 large Tilapia fillets
1 large onion, thick sliced
2 cups peppers, cut into medium thick strips
3–4 fresh lemon slices

Marinade

1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
2 teaspoons minced garlic
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or mixed dry herbs)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika as substitute)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, thoroughly mix the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and position the rack in the upper third section to ensure optimal heat distribution for baking the fish and vegetables.
Arrange Vegetables: On a baking tray, spread the thickly sliced onions and pepper strips in a single even layer to serve as a bed for the tilapia fillets.
Place Tilapia and Apply Marinade: Lay the tilapia fillets over the arranged vegetables, then generously apply the prepared marinade on both sides of each fillet, ensuring full flavor coverage.
Add Lemon Slices: Place the fresh lemon slices on top of the tilapia fillets to infuse the fish with a bright citrus aroma during baking.
Bake the Dish: Bake in the preheated oven on the upper third rack at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
Serve: Serve the baked tilapia over a bed of rice with the roasted vegetables on the side. Spoon the leftover lemon garlic butter sauce from the pan over the fish for extra flavor.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and slices for the brightest flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the marinade.
Make sure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, but regular paprika works well as a substitute.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Keywords: Baked Tilapia, Lemon Garlic Tilapia, Healthy Fish Recipe, Easy Baked Fish, Tilapia with Lemon Butter Sauce, Low Fat Dinner