Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia Recipe (Easy & Delicious)

How can a simple fish recipe become an absolute crowd-pleaser in less than 30 minutes? If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that is packed full of flavor and nutritious benefits, look no further than this Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia recipe. It’s not only easy to make but also a dish that brings the delicate flavors of the sea right into your home cooking. So let’s dive into the exciting world of tilapia!

Ingredients List

To create this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 Tilapia fillets – Fresh or frozen (if using frozen, thaw before cooking)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Melted (use olive oil for a lighter alternative)
• 4 cloves garlic – Minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder as a quick swap)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Freshly squeezed (powdered lemon zest works in a pinch)
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For color and subtle heat
• Salt and black pepper – To taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – Chopped, for garnish (dried parsley can be used too)

Timing

Preparing and baking Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia takes just about 20 minutes, which is considerably less time than the average fish recipe, typically clocking in at around 40-50 minutes. The breakdown is as follows:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

This quick cooking time means you can easily fit this delicious dish into your weeknight rotation without the hassle!

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even cook for your tilapia, leading to tender, flaky fish that melts in your mouth.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little melted butter to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for an easy cleanup afterward.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mix

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. This fragrant mixture serves as the flavorful base of your dish. Feel free to tweak the garlic and lemon levels based on your personal preferences.

Step 4: Arrange the Tilapia

Place the tilapia fillets in the greased baking dish. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Spoon the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet, making sure to coat them well to maximize flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the tilapia for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia (one fillet, assuming 4 servings) typically contains:

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 8g (with 4g being saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg

Tilapia is a great source of protein and contains essential nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to your meal plan.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten up this Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia? Here are a few substitutions to consider:

• Butter Replacement: Substitute with olive oil or avocado oil for a healthier fat option.
• Garlic Substitution: Use garlic powder for a milder flavor while keeping the preparation straightforward.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers in the baking dish for increased nutrients and a colorful presentation.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal truly delightful, consider these serving suggestions for your Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia:

• Pair with Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a mixed green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Complement with a Grain: A side of quinoa, wild rice, or even a baked potato will help soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Tropical Twist: For an exotic flair, serve the dish with pineapple salsa or a mango salad to contrast the rich flavors of the fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia, keep the following tips in mind to ensure perfect results:

• Avoid Overbaking: Overcooked tilapia becomes dry and rubbery. Keep an eye on the cooking time; 10-12 minutes should suffice for perfectly flaky fish.
• Using Frozen Fillets: If using frozen fillets, ensure they are fully thawed before baking to achieve even cooking.
• Lack of Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Proper seasoning is key for enhancing the flavors in this dish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you happen to have leftovers—or want to prep ingredients ahead of time—follow these storing tips:

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Freezing: If you have extra fillets that are uncooked, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-sealed and bagged to prevent freezer burn.
• Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to cook.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia recipe is the epitome of an easy, delicious meal that fits seamlessly into any busy lifestyle. You can whip up this dish in no time and impress both family and friends with its flavor and presentation. Don’t forget to adjust the recipe to your liking, and let your culinary creativity shine!

Ready to savor this delightful dish? Try it out tonight and leave your feedback in the comments below or explore similar recipes on our blog!

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish varieties like cod, haddock, or even snapper. Adjust cooking times slightly based on thickness.

Is tilapia a healthy option?
Yes, tilapia is low in calories and high in protein, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can benefit heart health.

What can I substitute if I don’t have garlic?
If garlic is unavailable, consider using shallots, onion powder, or even garlic salt to infuse some flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

How can I tell when tilapia is done cooking?
Tilapia is fully cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. This will maintain the richness without the dairy content.

Explore your culinary skills and dive into this delectable Garlic Butter Oven Baked Tilapia recipe today! Happy cooking!

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