1-First Step: Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures even cooking for your baked tilapia, helping it reach the ideal internal temperature safely. For those adapting for dietary needs, this temperature works well for low-fat versions too.

2-Second Step: Season the Tilapia – Take your 4 tilapia fillets and season them with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Arrange them in the baking dish for even exposure to heat. This baked tilapia recipe’s seasoning layer adds depth, and it’s easy to adjust for a milder taste if needed.

3-Third Step: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture – In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This mixture is the heart of garlic butter tilapia, infusing the fish with zesty flavors. Pour it evenly over the fillets to ensure every piece gets coated, which helps keep it moist during baking.

4-Fourth Step: Bake the Tilapia – Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Check for doneness by seeing if the fish flakes easily with a fork and hits 145°F (63°C) internally. This step in the baked tilapia recipe prevents overcooking, keeping it tender for all dietary preferences.

5-Fifth Step: Add Finishing Touches – Once out of the oven, garnish with red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, and lemon slices. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors of this easy tilapia recipe. For a twist, pair it with grilled veggies from our site; try this grilled vegetables recipe for a complete meal. The total time is just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.