Easy lemon butter fish fillet recipe made in under 20 minutes. Juicy white fish cooked in garlic lemon butter sauce for a simple and delicious dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in under 20 minutes
Light and healthy meal option
Buttery lemon garlic flavor
Simple pantry ingredients
Perfect for weeknights or meal prep
Ingredients
For the Fish
4 white fish fillets (tilapia, cod, or haddock)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat fish dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook fish fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky.
- Remove fish and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic.
- Add lemon juice, zest, and chili flakes. Stir well.
- Return fish to pan and spoon sauce over fillets.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Equipment
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Tips and Variations
Do not overcook fish to keep it tender
Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
Add capers for a Mediterranean twist
Swap butter with olive oil for lighter version
Add spinach or asparagus as a side in the pan
Store leftovers in fridge up to 2 days
Serving Suggestions
Serve with rice or mashed potatoes
Pair with roasted vegetables
Great with fresh salad
Serve with extra lemon wedges
Nutrition Facts Approximate per serving
Calories 280
Carbohydrates 3g
Protein 30g
Fat 16g
Conclusion
This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is quick, healthy, and full of bright flavor. It’s the perfect go-to meal for busy nights when you want something light yet satisfying. Save this recipe for an easy and delicious dinner.
FAQ
What fish works best
Cod, tilapia, or haddock
Can I bake instead of pan-fry
Yes bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes
How do I know fish is done
It flakes easily with a fork
Can I make it dairy-free
Yes use olive oil instead of butter
Can I add cream
Yes for a creamy lemon sauce version