Lemon Butter Fish Fillet – 15-Min Dinner Fix

Lemon butter fish fillet is hands-down one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes. This simple recipe transforms any white fish into a tender, flaky masterpiece, much like my lemon garlic tilapia that’s ready in just 30 minutes. that even my pickiest grandchild devours without complaint.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my late husband Frank – he was skeptical about fish until he took that first bite of perfectly seasoned fillet drizzled with tangy lemon butter. From that day forward, he’d request “Betty’s lemon fish” every Friday night. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: just a handful of pantry staples create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or hosting Sunday dinner, this lemon butter fish fillet never fails to impress. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

This recipe has been my go-to for over thirty years because it combines the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon with rich, creamy butter to create the perfect balance. I’ve served this lemon butter fish fillet to countless family gatherings, and it never disappoints – even folks who claim they “don’t like fish” always come back for seconds.

• Quick and easy preparation that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast
• Works beautifully with any white fish – salmon, tilapia, cod, or whatever looks freshest at your market. For another easy seafood option, try my sheet pan lemon herb salmon.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen create maximum flavor impact
• Healthy choice packed with lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids
• Foolproof cooking method that works for beginners and experienced cooks alike
• Versatile enough for casual family dinners or special occasions

This tender, flaky fish with its golden buttery coating is more than just a meal – it’s become a cherished tradition in my kitchen that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredient Note List

Fish Fillets: I always choose fresh, firm fillets that smell like the ocean rather than “fishy” – this makes all the difference in your final dish. Salmon adds richness, while tilapia and cod offer mild, family-friendly flavors that work perfectly with the lemon butter sauce.

Butter: Real butter creates that luxurious, golden coating that makes this lemon butter fish fillet so irresistible. I prefer using unsalted butter so I can control the salt level myself, especially since different fish varieties have varying natural saltiness.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Nothing beats fresh-squeezed lemon juice for that bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter. I’ve learned that one medium lemon typically yields about 2-3 tablespoons of juice, which is perfect for this recipe.

Salt and Black Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering the delicate lemon butter combination. I like to season generously but taste as I go.

Fresh Parsley: This bright green herb adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the lemon beautifully. I always chop it just before serving to maintain that vibrant appearance and crisp taste.

Optional Seasonings: Garlic powder adds a subtle savory note, while paprika gives a gentle warmth and beautiful color to the fish. These extras let you customize the flavor to your family’s preferences.

How to Cook Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Step 1. I always start by preheating my oven to 400°F because a properly heated oven ensures even cooking and prevents the fish from becoming rubbery. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper – trust me, this makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 2. Place your fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season them generously with salt and pepper. I’ve found that patting the fish dry first helps the seasonings stick better and promotes that lovely golden color we’re after.

Step 3. In a small bowl, I whisk together the melted butter and fresh lemon juice until they’re completely combined. My grandmother always said this step creates the magic – that smooth, silky sauce that makes everything taste restaurant-quality.

Step 4. Drizzle the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet — this technique also works beautifully in my baked garlic butter shrimp and rice recipe., making sure to coat the entire surface. I like to use a spoon to spread it gently if needed, ensuring every bite will have that perfect tangy-rich flavor.

Step 5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. I always check for doneness by gently pressing the fish with a fork – it should flake easily and be opaque throughout when perfectly cooked.

Step 6. Remove from the oven and let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your lemon butter fish fillet moist and tender.

Step 7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while it’s hot and the butter is still glistening. A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating adds that extra burst of brightness that makes this dish shine.

How to Store & Reheat

I usually store any leftover lemon butter fish fillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to 2 days. Make sure the fish cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation that can make it soggy.

While this dish tastes best fresh from the oven, freezing isn’t something I typically recommend for cooked fish as it can become flaky and lose that tender texture we love. However, if you must freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in foil and use within one month.

For best results, I like to reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F for about 8-10 minutes, just until warmed through. You can also use the microwave on medium power for 30-45 seconds, but be careful not to overcook it. A light drizzle of fresh lemon juice before reheating helps restore some of that bright flavor.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green color and slight crunch of steamed broccoli provides the perfect contrast to the tender, buttery fish while adding essential nutrients to your meal.

Roasted Baby Potatoes: These golden, crispy potatoes soak up any extra lemon butter sauce beautifully and create a satisfying, hearty base for your dinner plate.

Fresh Garden Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with light vinaigrette adds refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the fish and keeps the meal feeling light and healthy.

Rice Pilaf: The nutty, fluffy texture of rice pilaf complements the delicate fish perfectly while providing a neutral backdrop that lets the lemon butter flavors shine.

Roasted Asparagus: In my kitchen, I often serve this with roasted asparagus because the slightly charred tips and tender stalks pair wonderfully with the citrusy fish.

Garlic Green Beans: These crisp, flavorful beans add color and texture variety to your plate while the garlic enhances the overall savory profile of the meal.

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