This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a total game-changer for quick, healthy dinners. You get tender, flaky white fish seasoned to perfection, coated in a bright, garlicky lemon butter sauce, all ready in just 25 minutes. It was born out of a busy weeknight need for something fast and flavorful, and now it’s become a regular in my dinner rotation. Best part? It’s naturally gluten-free, keto-friendly, and packed with protein and healthy fats.
Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
Quick Weeknight Wonder
From start to finish in under 30 minutes, this is your go-to when time is tight, but flavor matters.
Restaurant-Quality Results
It tastes like something from a fancy seafood spot, but it’s affordable, simple, and done right at home.
Foolproof Technique
Even if you’re new to cooking fish, this method ensures perfectly flaky fillets every time.
Versatile Superstar
You can use any white fish you have on hand, cod, tilapia, haddock, making it super flexible and easy to adapt.
Ingredients for this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
- White Fish Fillets, Use cod, tilapia, haddock, or whatever’s fresh
- Paprika, Adds subtle smokiness and a golden color
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder, Deep flavor without burning
- Olive Oil, For cooking and creating the sauce base
- Butter, For that velvety, luxurious finish
- Fresh Lemons, Both juice and zest bring bright, zesty flavor
- Fresh Garlic, A punch of flavor that mellows as it cooks
- Fresh Parsley, For a pop of color and freshness
- Salt and Pepper, Essential for balanced seasoning
Exact measurements will be listed in your printable recipe card below.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
Step 1, Prep and Season the Fish
Pat the fillets dry with paper towels, this is key to a good crust. Rub with olive oil on both sides, then season generously with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2, Cook the Fish
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3, Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add butter and olive oil. Once the butter melts, add the garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Season to taste and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4, Plate and Serve
Return the fish to the plate or serving platter. Spoon the warm sauce over each fillet and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
Choose Evenly Sized Fillets, for even cooking
Don’t Flip Too Soon, Let a crust form before turning the fish
Adjust Sauce Thickness, Simmer longer or thin with a splash of broth
Make Ahead Tip, You can season the fish and refrigerate it up to 4 hours in advance
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cauliflower rice, for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal
- Pair with roasted veggies, like asparagus or broccoli
- Enjoy with mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice, to soak up all that buttery sauce
- Create a Mediterranean plate, with Greek salad and lemon-herb quinoa
Storage and Reheating
Fresh Is Best
This dish shines when served hot and fresh, with that perfect crust and tender interior.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover fish and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce may solidify when cold, but will melt again when reheated.
Gentle Reheating
Warm the fish in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Reheat the sauce in the microwave in short bursts or on the stovetop, then pour over the fish to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Frozen fish may release more moisture, so cook a bit longer if needed.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.
Can I substitute salmon?
Yes, it works beautifully with salmon. Adjust cooking time depending on thickness, usually 4–5 minutes per side.
How do I know when fish is done?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If using a thermometer, internal temp should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with plant-based butter or more olive oil. The lemon and garlic will still shine!
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is one of those recipes that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. It’s become my go-to for impressing dinner guests or treating myself to something special on a weeknight.
The combination of tender fish and that bright, buttery sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent while still being good for you. Whether you’re following a specific diet like keto or just looking for more delicious ways to incorporate seafood into your meals, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. I’d love to hear if you try it, keep this recipe and happy cooking, friends!
Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 4 white fish fillets cod, tilapia, or haddock
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lemons juice and zest
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry. Rub with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Fish: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook fish 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and olive oil. Stir in garlic and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Add lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Assemble: Place fish on a platter. Drizzle with lemon butter sauce and garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
