Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
Ingredients
4 white fish fillets (about 6 oz each), such as cod, tilapia or haddock
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 large lemon, sliced into rounds
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp dried rosemary
½ tsp salt, or to taste
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2–3 fresh rosemary sprigs
2–3 fresh thyme sprigs
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent the fish from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry using paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each fillet.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, dried rosemary and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Fish
Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the fish fillets, making sure each piece is well coated. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of each fillet for extra flavor.
Step 5: Add Lemon and Herbs
Arrange the fresh lemon slices around and on top of the fish. Add fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the baking dish. These herbs infuse the butter sauce with a wonderful aroma while baking.
Step 6: Bake the Fish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12–18 minutes, depending on the thickness and type of fish.
The fish is ready when it turns opaque, flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overbaking to keep the fish moist and tender.
Step 7: Baste and Garnish
Carefully spoon some of the melted lemon garlic butter sauce over the fish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a little extra black pepper.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the baked fish immediately with the warm lemon butter sauce from the baking dish. Add fresh lemon wedges for extra brightness and flavor.
Cooking Tips
Choose fresh fish: Cod, haddock, tilapia and sea bass all work well for this recipe.
Pat the fish dry: Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick and improves the texture.
Don’t overcook: Check the fish early, as thinner fillets cook faster.
Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon juice gives the sauce a brighter flavor.
Add extra garlic: If you love garlic, add one additional minced clove.
Keep the sauce: Spoon the buttery juices over the fish before serving to keep it moist and flavorful.
Use fresh herbs: Rosemary and thyme add a lovely aroma, but parsley or dill can also be used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed white rice or lemon herb rice.
Pair with roasted potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes.
Add steamed broccoli, asparagus or green beans.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad.
Enjoy with toasted garlic bread to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings using lean white fish.
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
280 kcal
Protein
35 g
Carbohydrates
3 g
Fat
14 g
Saturated Fat
6 g
Fiber
1 g
Sugar
1 g
Sodium
420 mg
Nutrition values vary depending on the fish variety and the exact ingredients used.
Nut Information
Nuts: No nuts are required in this recipe.
Nut-free: This recipe can be prepared without nuts. Check all ingredient labels for potential nut cross-contact if cooking for someone with a nut allergy.
Allergens: Contains fish and dairy (butter).
Dairy-free option: Replace butter with a suitable dairy-free butter alternative or additional olive oil.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover fish in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked fish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: Warm in a covered baking dish at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Add a little extra butter or lemon juice to help retain moisture.
Food safety: Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of fish is best for this recipe?
Cod, tilapia, haddock and halibut are all excellent choices. Choose firm, mild white fish fillets that hold their shape during baking.
2. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes. Thaw the fish completely in the refrigerator before cooking and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I make this recipe without butter?
Yes. Replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
4. How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque, flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at its thickest part.
5. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the lemon garlic butter sauce and season the fish a few hours ahead. Keep everything refrigerated and bake just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Fish is a simple yet delicious meal that combines flaky, tender fish with a rich buttery sauce, fresh lemon and fragrant herbs. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup and is perfect for a healthy family dinner or a special weekend meal. Serve it with your favorite vegetables, rice or potatoes for a complete and satisfying dish.