Name: Simple Baked Tilapia
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 2 Servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb tilapia; 1 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp salted butter; 1 clove garlic; 1 lemon

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Simple Baked Tilapia

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Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Season the tilapia fillets on both sides with the salt and pepper and arrange on the baking sheet. Drop softened butter by 1/4-inch pieces over the fillets and sprinkle evenly with the minced garlic, if using.

Bake the tilapia on middle rack of oven until it is just opaque and flakes easily with a fork, 7-9 minutes, depending on thickness of fillets.

Check to see that tilapia is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and serve immediately.

Video Tutorial Bite Tutorial

Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Pat Dry for Crispy Edges 🎯
Always pat tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels before cooking to remove surface moisture, which prevents steaming and allows the butter to create golden, flavorful edges.
Brown Butter Elevates Everything 🧈
Melt your salted butter separately in a small pan until it turns golden-brown (about 2-3 minutes), then drizzle over the fish just before baking for a rich, nutty flavor that transforms the dish.
Slice Garlic Thin for Even Distribution 🧄
Thinly slice rather than mince your garlic cloves so they cook evenly and distribute throughout the dish without overpowering the delicate tilapia flavor.
Lemon Juice Timing Prevents Cooking 🍋
Add fresh lemon juice only in the last 2 minutes of baking or after cooking; squeezing it beforehand can begin 'cooking' the delicate fish proteins and create an unpleasant texture.
Bake at Lower Temperature for Moisture 🌡️
Use 375°F instead of higher temperatures and bake for 10-12 minutes until the fish just flakes with a fork; this gentler heat keeps tilapia moist and prevents the lean flesh from drying out.