Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Buttery Garlic Lemon Baked Tilapia with Toasted Panko Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 32 reviews

Deliciously tender and flaky baked tilapia fillets infused with a rich garlic lemon butter sauce and topped with crispy toasted panko breadcrumbs, making for a quick and easy weeknight dinner packed with vibrant flavors.

  • Total Time: 17-19 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tilapia and Seasoning

  • 4 (6 ounce) tilapia fillets (1½ pounds total)
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

  • 5½ tablespoons salted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 2 lemons, sliced into rounds

Topping

  • ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh flat leaf parsley, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the center to ensure even cooking of the tilapia.
  2. Season the tilapia: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season all sides evenly with sea salt and paprika for balanced flavor.
  3. Prepare garlic lemon butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated lemon zest to infuse the butter with citrus aroma.
  4. Assemble for baking: Lay the lemon slices in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a flavorful bed. Place the seasoned tilapia fillets on top of the lemon slices and drizzle the garlic lemon butter evenly over the fish.
  5. Bake the tilapia: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the tilapia for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
  6. Make toasted panko breadcrumbs: While the tilapia bakes, melt the remaining 1½ tablespoons of butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly until they turn golden brown and crisp, about 4 minutes.
  7. Serve: Plate the baked tilapia fillets, sprinkle generously with toasted panko breadcrumbs, freshly cracked black pepper, and minced parsley if desired. Serve the lemon slices on the side to squeeze for extra freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure the tilapia is dry before seasoning for a better crust and flavor absorption.
  • Watch the garlic carefully when sautéing to avoid burning, which can make it bitter.
  • Fresh lemon slices under the fish add moisture and subtle citrus flavor during baking.
  • Toasted panko adds a delightful crunch contrasting the soft baked fish.
  • Parsley is optional but adds a fresh herbal note and color.
  • Use skinless fillets for ease, but skin-on can be used for additional texture.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/buttery-garlic-lemon-baked-tilapia-with-toasted-panko-recipe/