Quick 15-Minute Pan-Seared Tilapia: Golden and Crispy Seafood Dinner

Pan-Seared Tilapia

Learn how to cook tilapia with this simple, 15-minute recipe for pan-seared tilapia. This easy method produces delicious, flavorful fillets the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Tilapia Recipe

Tilapia is a versatile, mild-flavored fish that pairs beautifully with zesty lemon, garlic, and buttery pan-fry seasonings. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a crispy, golden-brown crust and tender, flaky fish—perfect for a quick seafood dinner or a light protein option everyone raves about.

Ingredients for Pan-Seared Tilapia

• 4 (4-ounce) tilapia fillets
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the fish: Pat each tilapia fillet dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp crust. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the pan: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer (about 1 minute).
3. Sear the fillets: Add the tilapia fillets to the pan in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side without moving until golden and flaky.
4. Butter & lemon finish: Reduce heat to medium, add butter around the fillets, and tilt the pan to spoon melted butter over the fish. Squeeze lemon juice on top.
5. Serve immediately: Transfer fillets to a plate, garnish with extra lemon wedges, and enjoy your quick pan-fry tilapia dinner.

Nutrition Information

Tips & Variations for Perfect Tilapia

• Extra crunch: Lightly dust fillets with a mix of cornmeal and paprika before cooking.
• Herb twist: Add fresh dill or parsley during the butter-basting step for garden-fresh flavor.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or chili powder when seasoning.
• Family friendly: Serve with steamed veggies or a side of rice for a complete weeknight meal.

With this foolproof method, you’ll never overcook seafood again—just golden, flaky tilapia everyone will ask for on repeat. tilapia

Recipe credit: Allrecipes