Deliciously easy, melt-in-the-mouth fillets, this Garlic Butter Baked Tilapia is the perfect fuss-free dinner. It makes a great quick weeknight meal and is super simple to make – so a great recipe for when you need dinner to feel peaceful and rewarding!

Every week without fail, simple baked fish recipes are some of the most popular searches for busy cooks. It seems we just can’t get enough of dishes that feel comforting without trying too hard!

Well, after many quiet, successful dinners, I decided this one deserved a proper spotlight…

And I am pleased to report that this Garlic Butter Baked Tilapia is just as tender… and just as satisfying as you’d hope!

I’ve used plenty of melted butter and gentle garlic heat, but otherwise kept the process incredibly straightforward.

Perfect if you prefer calm cooking to chaos… or why not add this steady favorite to your rotation this week?

Ingredients in Garlic Butter Baked Tilapia

This ingredient list stays short and friendly, which keeps prep relaxed and stress low.

How to make Garlic Butter Baked Tilapia

This recipe stays calm, steady, and easy from start to finish.

1. Heat the oven

Set the oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease a baking dish so the fish lifts easily after cooking.

2. Prepare the butter

Mix melted butter with garlic, lemon juice, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and fragrant.

3. Arrange the fish

Place tilapia fillets in a single layer inside the baking dish. Leave space so heat moves evenly.

4. Season generously

Spoon the garlic butter mixture over each fillet. Make sure the surface stays fully coated.

5. Bake gently

Slide the dish into the oven and bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork. This usually takes twelve to fifteen minutes.

6. Check doneness

Look for opaque flesh and soft texture. Avoid overcooking since tilapia cooks quickly.

7. Rest briefly

Let the fish sit for a couple of minutes so the juices settle before serving.

How to serve Garlic Butter Baked Tilapia

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the fish shine. Steamed rice catches the buttery sauce nicely, while roasted vegetables add balance and color. A light salad works well when the meal needs to feel fresh and clean.

Recipe Tips

Pat the fish dry before seasoning so the butter sticks better.
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor here.
Watch baking time closely to keep the fish tender.
Use parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Finish with extra parsley for brightness.