Herb-Butter Tilapia Bake
Indulge in the savory flavors of our Herb-Butter Tilapia Bake, a simple yet delightful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. This recipe features fresh tilapia fillets, lovingly coated in a rich, herbed butter mixture with a hint of lemon and garlic. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs and baked to flaky perfection, it's a dish that pleases everyone at the table. Serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal that’s sure to impress.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tilapia fillet
1 - 1 1/2 lb (Rinse and pat dry)
Butter
4 tablespoons (Melted)
Lemon juice
2 teaspoons (Freshly squeezed)
Garlic
1 - 2 cloves (Minced)
Sugar
1 teaspoon (None)
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Thyme
1/2 teaspoon (Dried)
Parsley
1 tablespoon (Chopped)
Breadcrumbs
1/3 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 13" x 9" baking dish with cooking spray or oil and set it aside.
2
Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
3
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, sugar, pepper, thyme, and chopped parsley until well combined.
4
Evenly pour the herb-butter mixture over the fish fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
5
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs generously over the top of the fish for added crunch.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb-Butter Tilapia Bake?
It is a simple and savory seafood dish featuring tilapia fillets coated in an herbed butter mixture and topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
What kind of fish is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses fresh tilapia fillets.
How long does it take to bake the tilapia?
The tilapia should be baked for approximately 20 minutes in a preheated oven.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
What ingredients are in the herb-butter mixture?
The mixture includes melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, sugar, pepper, thyme, and chopped parsley.
How should I prepare the tilapia fillets before baking?
Rinse the fillets under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels before placing them in the baking dish.
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia, but ensure they are completely thawed before you begin the preparation.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 13x9 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed to be a simple and fast meal perfect for busy weeknights.
What are the primary herbs used for seasoning?
The recipe uses dried thyme and freshly chopped parsley.
How do I know when the tilapia is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Can I substitute tilapia with another type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute tilapia with other white fish like cod, haddock, or orange roughy.
Why are breadcrumbs added to the top?
Breadcrumbs are added to provide a crispy texture and a satisfying crunch to the dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of standard ones.
Is there sugar in this herb-butter recipe?
Yes, one teaspoon of sugar is included to help balance the savory and acidic flavors.
How much butter is required?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of melted butter.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried parsley, though fresh parsley is recommended for the best flavor profile.
What are some suggested side dishes?
Steamed vegetables or a light garden salad are excellent accompaniments for this meal.
Can I omit the breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can omit them for a lower-carb version, though the dish will lack the crunchy topping.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for its bright flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How many garlic cloves should I use?
The recipe suggests using one to two cloves of minced garlic depending on your preference.
Why is it important to pat the fish dry?
Patting the fish dry ensures the herb butter sticks to the fillets and prevents the fish from steaming instead of baking.
Can I add extra spices to the butter?
Absolutely, you can add red pepper flakes for heat or paprika for color and smokiness.
Is tilapia a healthy protein choice?
Yes, tilapia is a lean, low-calorie protein source, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers.
What does 'opaque' mean in terms of cooked fish?
Opaque means the fish is no longer translucent or see-through and has turned solid white.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on 1 to 1.5 pounds of fish, it typically serves 3 to 4 people.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil for a different flavor profile and lower saturated fat content.
Should the fish be in a single layer?
Yes, arranging the fillets in a single layer ensures even cooking and proper coating.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients; just ensure you use a larger baking dish or two separate ones.