Baked Fish With Lemon Butter Sauce
Juicy baked fish topped with a zesty lemon butter sauce, perfect for a light, flavorful meal suitable for seafood lovers and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season fish fillets with salt, pepper, and onion powder on both sides.
- Arrange the seasoned fish in a buttered baking dish.
- Heat melted butter and lemon juice together and pour over the fish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Sprinkle with paprika and garnish with lemon slices before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the lemon butter sauce. If you don't have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Flaky white fish, such as tilapia or cod, can be substituted for the fillets. Keep an eye on cooking time as thinner fillets may cook faster.
Serving Suggestions
This baked fish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes or a grain like quinoa for added texture. A glass of white wine or a light beer complements the dish well, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to ensure it warms evenly without drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fish With Lemon Butter Sauce contains roughly 1044 calories, with 24g protein, 180g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (123% of the Daily Value), calcium (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 34g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and baking. This may require adjusting the baking time slightly, so check for doneness by ensuring the fish flakes easily with a fork.
How can I tell when the fish is done cooking?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Look for a translucent appearance turning to an opaque color. If unsure, it's best to check it a few minutes before the suggested cooking time.
What can I do with leftover lemon butter sauce?
Leftover lemon butter sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it to drizzle over steamed vegetables or pasta, or as a dipping sauce for seafood recipes. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).