Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter White Fish Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of delicate white fish and savory garlic butter that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. It’s fast to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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White fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
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Unsalted butter
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Garlic cloves, minced
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Lemon juice
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Olive oil
directions
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Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley, then return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the fish.
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Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Preparation time is about 5 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 10 minutes, making it ready in under 20 minutes total.
Variations
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Use different herbs such as thyme or dill instead of parsley for a twist in flavor.
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Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle spicy kick.
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Substitute lemon juice with lime juice or white wine for a different acidity profile.
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For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
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Try topping with toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
storage/reheating
Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at a low setting to avoid drying out the fish. Avoid overcooking during reheating.
FAQs
What type of white fish works best for this recipe?
Cod, tilapia, haddock, and sole are all great options because they have a mild flavor and flaky texture that pairs well with garlic butter.
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, just be sure to thaw the fish completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance, but it’s best to add it fresh to the cooked fish for the best flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil and ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.
Can I bake the fish instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake the seasoned fish at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with the garlic butter sauce before serving.
What sides pair well with garlic butter white fish?
Steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad complement this dish nicely.
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
Can I double the recipe for more servings?
Absolutely, just increase the ingredient quantities accordingly and cook the fish in batches if needed.
Is lemon juice necessary for the recipe?
Lemon juice brightens and balances the richness of the butter, but you can omit it if preferred.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter White Fish is a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that anyone can prepare with minimal ingredients and effort. Its tender texture and flavorful garlic butter sauce make it a standout dish for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or guests, this recipe promises a satisfying and elegant meal with very little fuss.
Garlic Butter White Fish
Delicious and easy Garlic Butter White Fish recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This tender white fish fillet cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce is flavorful and healthy. Ideal for those craving a light, low-carb meal with a touch of garlic goodness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Drizzle the lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Drizzle the lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
