Bake Tilapia at 350: The Perfect Recipe and Cooking Time

Bake Tilapia at 350 for a flaky, flavorful, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds! Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen; this method delivers perfectly cooked tilapia with minimal effort. Have you ever struggled to get fish just right – either dry and rubbery or undercooked and unappetizing? Those days are over!

While tilapia itself doesn’t boast a long, storied history like some other fish, its mild flavor and affordability have made it a global favorite in recent decades. It’s a blank canvas, ready to absorb whatever delicious flavors you throw its way. And that’s precisely why baking it at 350 degrees is such a winning strategy.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, the taste is simply divine. The gentle heat of the oven ensures the tilapia remains moist and tender, allowing its delicate flavor to shine through. Second, the texture is perfect – flaky and light, never tough or chewy. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it’s unbelievably convenient. With just a few simple ingredients and about 20 minutes, you can have a healthy and satisfying meal on the table. So, are you ready to learn how to bake tilapia at 350 and create a culinary masterpiece with minimal fuss?

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 Tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• Optional Vegetables: 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced

Preparing the Tilapia:

1. First things first, let’s get our tilapia ready! Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. This is important because it helps them get a nice sear in the oven and prevents them from steaming. We want a little bit of browning for extra flavor.
2. Now, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is our flavor bomb that will make the tilapia sing! If you’re using white wine, add it to the mixture now. The wine adds a lovely depth of flavor and helps keep the fish moist.
3. Season the tilapia fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy! This is your chance to really bring out the natural flavors of the fish.
4. Place the tilapia fillets in a baking dish. I usually use a glass baking dish, but any oven-safe dish will work. Make sure the fillets aren’t overlapping so they cook evenly.
5. Pour the lemon-herb mixture over the tilapia fillets, making sure to coat them evenly. You can use a spoon to spread the mixture around.
6. If you’re adding vegetables, now’s the time to arrange them around the tilapia fillets in the baking dish. The vegetables will roast alongside the fish and soak up all those delicious flavors.

Baking the Tilapia:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the tilapia in. This ensures even cooking.
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to trap the moisture and prevent the tilapia from drying out.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them.
4. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the tilapia to brown slightly. This step is optional, but it adds a nice visual appeal and a little extra flavor.
5. To check if the tilapia is done, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of a fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s ready! If not, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

Serving:

1. Once the tilapia is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while the lemon wedges provide a burst of acidity that complements the richness of the tilapia.
3. Serve the baked tilapia immediately. It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh.
4. This baked tilapia is delicious served with a variety of sides, such as rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lemon-herb mixture.
• Add some zest: Grate some lemon zest into the lemon-herb mixture for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Use different herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or dill.
• Add capers: Sprinkle some capers over the tilapia before baking for a salty, briny flavor.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or sour cream into the lemon-herb mixture for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Bake in parchment paper: For easy cleanup, bake the tilapia in a parchment paper packet. Simply place the tilapia fillets on a sheet of parchment paper, top with the lemon-herb mixture and vegetables (if using), and fold the parchment paper to create a sealed packet. Bake as directed.
• Broil for a crispy top: For a crispy top, broil the tilapia for the last minute or two of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
• Use different fish: If you don’t have tilapia, you can use other white fish fillets, such as cod, haddock, or flounder.
• Make it a sheet pan dinner: Toss chopped potatoes, broccoli florets, and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet, then place the tilapia fillets on top. Drizzle the tilapia with the lemon-herb mixture and bake as directed. This makes for a complete and easy sheet pan dinner.
• Marinate the tilapia: For even more flavor, marinate the tilapia fillets in the lemon-herb mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can even marinate them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Add cherry tomatoes: Halve some cherry tomatoes and add them to the baking dish along with the other vegetables. The tomatoes will burst and release their juices, creating a delicious sauce.
• Use butter instead of olive oil: For a richer flavor, use melted butter instead of olive oil in the lemon-herb mixture.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the tilapia before baking for a cheesy, savory flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of rice or quinoa.
• Serve with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
• Serve with a simple salad.
• Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Serve with a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill.
• Serve with a side of couscous.
• Serve with a glass of crisp white wine.

Enjoy your delicious and easy baked tilapia!

Conclusion:

This baked tilapia recipe isn’t just another fish dish; it’s a weeknight dinner champion, a flavor-packed adventure, and a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. I wholeheartedly believe you need to try this. The flaky, tender tilapia, infused with the bright lemon and savory herbs, is a delightful experience that will leave you wanting more. It’s quick, it’s healthy, and it’s incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to your regular meal rotation.

But why is this particular baked tilapia recipe a must-try? Beyond the ease of preparation, it’s the balance of flavors that truly shines. The lemon brightens the delicate fish, while the herbs add a depth of savory goodness. The olive oil keeps everything moist and tender, preventing the tilapia from drying out in the oven. It’s a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied without being weighed down. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that requires minimal cleanup?

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations! This baked tilapia is fantastic served alongside a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. The grains soak up the delicious pan juices, creating a complete and satisfying meal. For a low-carb option, try pairing it with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a vibrant green salad. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving adds an extra burst of flavor.

Feeling adventurous? There are so many ways to customize this recipe to your liking! If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. If you’re looking for a creamier sauce, whisk a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt into the pan juices after baking. You could even try using different herbs, such as dill, parsley, or thyme, to create unique flavor profiles. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination!

Another great variation is to add a light breadcrumb topping for added texture. Simply mix some panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle it over the tilapia before baking. This will create a crispy, golden crust that complements the tender fish beautifully.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how delicious and easy it is to prepare. I truly believe that this baked tilapia will become a staple in your kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of perfectly baked tilapia. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your creations! I’d love to hear about your experiences, your variations, and your favorite ways to serve this dish. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create!