Easy & Delicious Baked Tilapia Recipe

Are you looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea that’s both delicious and easy to make? This baked tilapia recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a simple, flavorful meal.

Tilapia is a mild, flaky fish that absorbs seasonings beautifully, making it a great choice for anyone—even those who don’t eat fish often!

I remember the first time I tried baked tilapia; I was surprised by how light yet satisfying it was. It’s now one of my go-to meals when I want something nutritious but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe will become one of your favorites too!

Whether it’s summer and you want a light seafood dish or winter and you need a comforting, warm meal, this baked tilapia fits every season. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice. Ready to make an easy, tasty meal? Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: You only need about 20 minutes from start to finish!
• Healthy & Nutritious: Tilapia is packed with protein and low in fat.
• Mild & Flavorful: Even picky eaters love it because it’s not too “fishy.”
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings to match your taste.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple, everyday spices bring out the best flavors.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this baked tilapia recipe:

For the Tilapia

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Side Dishes

Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt and pepper

Garlic Butter Rice:

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get baking!

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Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

• Baking sheet (or a large oven-safe dish)
• Parchment paper (or aluminum foil) – for easy cleanup
• Small bowl – to mix seasonings
• Measuring spoons – for accurate seasoning
• Brush or spoon – to spread olive oil or butter on the fish
• Knife and cutting board – for slicing lemons and chopping parsley
• Tongs or spatula – to handle the fish easily after baking

Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable!

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Tilapia

1. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better.
2. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
4. Brush or drizzle the mixture evenly over each fillet.

Step 3: Add Flavor

1. Sprinkle lemon zest on top (if using) for a fresh citrus kick.
2. Arrange lemon slices on and around the fillets for extra flavor while baking.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. If you want a slightly crispy top, switch to broil mode for the last 2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the tilapia from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
2. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or garlic butter rice.
3. Squeeze extra lemon juice over the fillets before eating for a zesty boost.

More Recipes >>>>>> Creamy Tuscan Salmon Recipe

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly! If it flakes easily with a fork, it’s done. Overcooked tilapia can become dry.
• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor—bottled juice won’t have the same brightness.
• Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of cayenne for a little spice or swap oregano for fresh thyme or basil.
• Add Parmesan: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese before baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
• Make It a Meal: Serve with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete dinner.
• For Extra Crispy Edges: Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a lightly crisp top.

This baked tilapia recipe is easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit.

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, don’t worry! Here are some great swaps and variations to customize your baked tilapia:

Ingredient Substitutions

• Tilapia Alternative: You can use other mild, white fish like cod, haddock, or flounder.
• Olive Oil: Swap with melted butter, avocado oil, or coconut oil for a different flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Use fresh minced garlic for a stronger, more aromatic taste.
• Paprika: Try smoked paprika for a deeper, slightly smoky flavor.
• Oregano: Substitute with thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Herb Butter Tilapia: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives, then spread it on top before baking.
• Parmesan Crusted: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust.
• Citrus Twist: Try using lime instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

This baked tilapia pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas:

Light & Fresh Sides

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes topped with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Try broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or zucchini.

Hearty & Comforting Sides

• Garlic Butter Rice: White or brown rice flavored with butter, garlic, and parsley.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a little garlic make a great pairing.

Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up any juices from the fish.
• Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread balances the savory tilapia.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftover baked tilapia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked tilapia for up to 2 months. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag.

Reheating Tips

• Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place tilapia on a baking sheet, and warm for 8-10 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil or butter in a pan over medium-low heat and warm the fillets for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Microwave (Quickest but Not Ideal): Reheat in 30-second intervals until warm, but be careful—it can dry out quickly!

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FAQ

1. Can I use frozen tilapia?

Yes! Just thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking.

2. How do I know when tilapia is fully cooked?

Tilapia is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and white.

3. Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

4. What if I don’t have fresh lemon?

You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon slices add extra flavor while baking.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the tilapia and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop it in the oven when ready.

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This baked tilapia is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!