Baked Tilapia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Tilapia is a quick, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or healthy dinners. With its mild flavor and tender texture, tilapia pairs well with simple seasonings and fresh citrus. This easy recipe delivers a delicious, flaky fish that’s ready in under 20 minutes—no frying, no fuss.

this Recipe

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

tilapia filletsolive oillemon juicegarlic (minced)paprikadried oregano or Italian seasoningparsley (fresh, chopped)salt and black pepperlemon slices (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesBaking time: 12–15 minutesTotal time: 17–20 minutes

Variations

Add sliced cherry tomatoes and capers for a Mediterranean twist.

Top with a breadcrumb and parmesan crust before baking for added crunch.

Use lime juice and chili powder for a zesty, spicy version.

Swap in cod, halibut, or another mild white fish if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out.Freezing is not recommended as tilapia texture may change after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tilapia?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

What sides go well with baked tilapia?

Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Is tilapia healthy?

Yes, it’s a lean source of protein and low in fat and calories.

Can I cook it in foil?

Yes, foil packets work great for sealing in moisture and flavor.

How do I know when tilapia is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Can I marinate tilapia?

Yes, but limit it to 15–30 minutes to prevent the fish from breaking down.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work well; just reduce the quantity by about half.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, as long as no breadcrumbs or sauces with gluten are added.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Absolutely, melted butter adds richness and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or sheet pan and avoid overlapping fillets.

Conclusion

Baked Tilapia is a fast, flavorful, and healthy meal option that’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to suit any taste. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want a fresh and satisfying seafood dinner.

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