Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Fish
If you’re searching for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare, this baked lemon garlic butter fish is exactly what you need.
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It’s light, juicy, and brimming with rich, buttery goodness.
What makes it truly special is how effortlessly the lemon and garlic enhance the fish’s natural flavor.
Plus, it’s so simple to make that even beginner cooks can feel like pros in the kitchen.
This recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
4 fillets of white fish (cod, tilapia, or halibut work beautifully)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices (for serving)
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Prep the Fish
Lay the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
This helps the flavors stick to the fish and ensures even cooking.
3. Whip Up the Lemon Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
This mixture is where all the magic happens.
The butter adds a creamy richness, the garlic provides depth, and the lemon gives a zesty brightness that ties everything together.
4. Season the Fish
Drizzle the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish fillets.
Make sure each piece is well-coated so every bite bursts with flavor.
Sprinkle the paprika, salt, and black pepper over the top for an added layer of seasoning.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes.
The exact time depends on the thickness of your fish.
You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque in the center.
The aroma filling your kitchen?
That’s how you know something amazing is happening!
6. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the fish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of herbaceousness.
Serve with lemon slices on the side for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
Pair it with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy your masterpiece!
Perfect Side Dishes to Pair
This baked fish is incredibly versatile, so you have plenty of options when it comes to sides.
Here are a few great options:
Steamed Vegetables
Light and healthy, a mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans complements the fish beautifully.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and flavorful, they’re the perfect companion for the buttery sauce.
Herbed Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice infused with herbs adds a subtle flavor that doesn’t overpower the fish.
Crispy Garlic Bread
Soak up every drop of that lemon garlic butter sauce with a slice of warm, crunchy bread.
Other Tips
Choose Fresh Fish: Fresh fillets always make a difference. Look for fish with a clean smell and firm texture.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid drying out the fish.
Make It Your Own: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or sprinkle grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Prepare Ahead: You can mix the lemon garlic butter in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Why We Love This Recipe
This baked lemon garlic butter fish hits all the right notes.
The simplicity of the preparation lets the ingredients shine.
The fish absorbs the flavors of the buttery, garlicky lemon sauce, creating a dish that’s light yet indulgent.
The balance of acidity from the lemon and the richness from the butter ensures every bite is as satisfying as the last.
And the minimal prep time?
That’s a win for busy cooks everywhere!
Final Thoughts
This recipe is proof that you don’t need a complicated process to create a meal that feels luxurious.
It’s perfect for impressing guests, treating yourself to something special, or simply enjoying a wholesome, flavorful dinner with your family.
Once you try this baked lemon garlic butter fish, it’s bound to become a regular on your menu.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and let the magic unfold!
Bon appétit!
