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Pan-Seared Tilapia with Garlic Butter Sauce - Fast, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 4–6 ounces each), patted dry
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional, for color and warmth)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or chives)
  • Lemon zest from 1/2 lemon (optional, but brightens the sauce)

Method
 

  1. Prep the fish: Pat tilapia dry on both sides. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
  3. Sear the tilapia: Place fillets in the pan without crowding. Cook 2–3 minutes until edges turn opaque and the underside is golden.
  4. Flip and finish: Gently flip. Cook 1–2 more minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  5. Make the sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. When melted and foamy, add garlic. Cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring so it doesn’t brown.
  6. Brighten: Stir in lemon juice and zest. Scrape up browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
  7. Combine: Return the fish to the skillet for 20–30 seconds, spooning sauce over the top. Sprinkle with parsley.
  8. Serve: Plate fillets, pour over more sauce, and add lemon wedges on the side.