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Baked Lemon Pepper Tilapia

Crispy lemon pepper tilapia with buttery sauce and fresh lemon slices.

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This recipe delivers incredibly moist, flavorful tilapia in under 20 minutes. A hot oven and a simple, zesty lemon pepper butter sauce ensure the fish is never dry or rubbery. It’s the perfect simple, satisfying comfort food for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tilapia filets (about 6 ounces each), thawed if frozen
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Freshly chopped parsley or thyme, for garnish
  • Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the tilapia filets completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
  3. Place the dried tilapia filets in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the butter and seasoning mixture over the fish, using a brush or spoon to coat thoroughly.
  4. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Serve immediately, spooning the pan sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Notes

For best results, always pat fish dry before seasoning. Do not overcook. If your lemon pepper blend contains salt, reduce or omit the added salt. For a dairy-free version, substitute olive oil or avocado oil for the butter.

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