Name: Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 4 fish fillets (salmon, tilapia, or cod); 2 tbsp butter (melted); 1 lemon (juiced); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, etc.)

Jump to Recipe

Bright, zesty, and impossibly simple, Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is one of those magical dishes that feels gourmet while being totally achievable on any weeknight. Fresh fish fillets soak up the tang of lemon and the richness of butter, all balanced by a touch of seasoning and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Whether you’re cooking for family or hoping to impress a dinner guest, this recipe is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet comes together with just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Every item on the list plays a starring role—from the silky butter and sharp lemon to the subtle lift of optional spices and the color pop of parsley, each contributes something special.

Fish fillets: Choose salmon, tilapia, or cod—each brings its own unique texture and flavor, so pick your favorite or what’s freshest!
Butter (melted): Infuses the fish with rich, velvety flavor and helps lock in moisture as the fillets bake.
Lemon (juiced): Adds essential brightness and acidity, cutting through the buttery goodness and enhancing the taste of the fish.
Salt: Essential for awakening all the flavors—don’t be shy, but season to your taste.
Pepper: Brings a gentle bite and depth to each fillet.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A final flourish of freshness and a pop of green that makes the dish extra inviting.
Optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, etc.): For those who love a little extra flavor, a pinch of garlic powder or smoky paprika makes this Lemon Butter Fish Fillet your own.

How to Make Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This simple step makes cleanup a total breeze, and ensures none of that precious lemon butter goes to waste.

Step 2: Arrange and Season the Fillets

Lay the fish fillets on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle each one with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings (like a whisper of garlic powder or a dash of paprika). This is where you set the stage for the flavors to shine.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and fresh lemon juice until they’re perfectly blended. You’ll see it turn into a glossy, aromatic mixture that smells absolutely heavenly.

Step 4: Drizzle the Goodness

Spoon or pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet. Make sure every piece gets some love! This is the heart of the Lemon Butter Fish Fillet—every bite will soak up that irresistible flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes apart easily with a fork. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye out for that telltale flaky texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the fillets rest for a few minutes. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor, then serve the Lemon Butter Fish Fillet hot—don’t keep anyone waiting!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Garnishes

The finishing touches matter! A handful of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a few thin lemon slices or even a light grating of lemon zest for extra citrus flair. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving takes it to restaurant quality.

Side Dishes

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet pairs beautifully with simple sides: think fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a medley of roasted vegetables. For a lighter take, a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette makes a perfect companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your Lemon Butter Fish Fillet for special occasions by plating it on a bed of wilted spinach or asparagus spears. Serve individual fillets in parchment paper “packets” for a little tableside drama, or arrange them family-style with lots of colorful veggies for a festive spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Lemon Butter Fish Fillet, simply store the fillets in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two days, making for easy meal-prep lunches or a quick dinner reboot.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Lemon Butter Fish Fillet by wrapping each completely cooled fillet tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Label with the date and enjoy within one month for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the fillets in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps preserve their delicate texture. A quick microwave blast works in a pinch, but for optimal flavor, oven reheating is your friend.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish for Lemon Butter Fish Fillet?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the fish fillets completely and pat them dry before cooking. This ensures they’ll absorb all the luscious lemon butter flavor without turning soggy.

What type of fish works best for this recipe?

Salmon, tilapia, and cod are all excellent choices, but this recipe is super flexible. Any mild, flaky white fish will work beautifully with lemon butter and the simple seasonings.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Definitely—experiment with herbs like dill, thyme, or basil, or try a dash of crushed red pepper for a gentle kick. The beauty of Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is how easily you can make it your own.

Is it necessary to bake, or can I pan-sear the fish instead?

While baking is fuss-free and keeps the fish extra moist, you can pan-sear the fillets in a skillet over medium heat. Just add the lemon butter at the end and let it sizzle into the fish before serving.

How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

You’ll know your Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork and turns fully opaque. If you use a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Final Thoughts

Once you try Lemon Butter Fish Fillet, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s speedy, full of flavor, and impressive enough for guests—so don’t wait for a special occasion. Make it tonight and treat yourself to restaurant-worthy flavor right at home!

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 26 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is a quick and flavorful way to prepare fish. The buttery lemon sauce enhances the natural taste of the fish, making it a delightful meal that is perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish Fillet:

4 fish fillets (salmon, tilapia, or cod)

Lemon Butter Sauce:

2 tbsp butter (melted)
1 lemon (juiced)
salt (to taste)
pepper (to taste)
fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, etc.)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Season Fish: Place fish fillets on the prepared sheet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika.
Prepare Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and lemon juice until combined.
Coat Fillets: Drizzle the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets.
Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Seafood