Name: Simple Baked Tilapia
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 2 Servings
Cuisine: American

OnlineCook Verified

April 29, 2025

6 Ingredients

EASY

Here's a foolproof recipe for enjoying fresh tilapia fillets. The recipe is a Yummly original created by Sara Mellas.

From the Cook

1/2

Simple Baked Tilapia

OnlineCook Verified

Ingredients

Servings

WarningMilk and 2 other 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

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Moisture Magic 💦
Pat tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crisp, golden exterior and prevent steaming.
Butter Basting Brilliance 🧈
Melt butter slowly and spoon it over the tilapia during baking to create a rich, glossy coating that keeps the fish incredibly moist.
Lemon Layer Technique 🍋
Thinly slice lemons and place them directly under the fillets to infuse subtle citrus flavor and prevent sticking to the baking dish.
Garlic Infusion Hack 🧄
Mince garlic ultra-fine or use a microplane to release maximum flavor and prevent any harsh, raw garlic bits.
Doneness Detection 🐟
Tilapia is perfectly cooked when it easily flakes with a fork and turns from translucent to opaque white, typically taking 10-12 minutes at 400°F.