Why You’ll Love 30-Minute Baked Tilapia with Lemon Recipe
I love how simple this dish is while still feeling special enough for a family dinner. I rely on basic pantry spices, fresh lemon, and a quick bake time to get flaky, tender fish every single time. I also appreciate that it’s low calorie, nutritious, and easy to pair with almost any side.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). I line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the tilapia fillets in a single layer. I drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fish, then sprinkle on the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. I place lemon slices on top of each fillet and bake everything for 15 to 20 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork. I finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
I get 4 servings from this recipe, with one fillet per person. Prep time takes me about 10 minutes, and the baking time is around 20 minutes, making the total time roughly 30 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
I sometimes add sliced onions or cherry tomatoes under the fillets for extra flavor. When I want more herbs, I mix dried oregano or thyme into the seasoning. For a slightly richer taste, I brush a little melted butter over the fillets before baking.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I prefer using the oven at a low temperature or gently warming the fish in a covered skillet so it stays moist. I avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the fish from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tilapia?
I can use frozen tilapia as long as I fully thaw it and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.
How do I know when the tilapia is done?
I check that the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout.
Can I substitute another fish?
I often swap tilapia with cod, haddock, or sole using the same method and timing.
Do I need to flip the fillets?
I don’t flip them since they cook evenly in the oven.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I prefer making it fresh, but I can bake it a few hours ahead and gently reheat before serving.
What sides go well with this recipe?
I like serving it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
Can I reduce the oil?
I can slightly reduce the olive oil, but I keep enough to prevent the fish from drying out.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
I find the mild lemon flavor and soft texture work well for kids.
Can I add more lemon flavor?
I sometimes squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets right before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
I use it for short-term meal prep, usually within one or two days for best texture.
Conclusion
I keep this baked tilapia with lemon recipe in regular rotation because it’s fast, healthy, and dependable. It fits perfectly into busy family nights while still delivering fresh flavor and a satisfying meal everyone can enjoy.
A light, healthy baked tilapia recipe with fresh lemon and simple pantry spices, ready in just 30 minutes. This easy family-friendly dish delivers tender, flaky fish with clean, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
4 tilapia fillets
2 lemons, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the tilapia fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the fillets.
Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Pat the fish dry before seasoning for best texture.
Do not overbake, as tilapia can dry out quickly.
Fresh lemon juice can be squeezed on top before serving for extra brightness.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
