Baked Red Snapper with Lemon Herb Butter is a light yet luxurious seafood dish that perfectly showcases the delicate flavor of fresh snapper. The tender, flaky fillets are topped with a bright and buttery lemon-herb sauce that infuses every bite with richness and zest. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinner parties.
🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple but Elegant: Just a few fresh ingredients create a restaurant-quality meal.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with protein and omega-3s for a wholesome dinner option.
- Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in less than half an hour.
- Customizable: Switch up the herbs or add your own twist with spices or citrus flavors.
🐟 Ingredients
For the Red Snapper:
- 4 red snapper fillets (6–8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
For the Lemon Herb Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Pinch of salt
🍋 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the butter, garlic, parsley, dill, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Season the Red Snapper
Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel.
Drizzle both sides with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Place the snapper fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Fish
Arrange lemon slices over and around the fillets.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Add the Lemon Herb Butter
Remove the fish from the oven and immediately top each fillet with a generous spoonful of the lemon herb butter.
Let it melt into the warm fish, creating a luscious, citrusy sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the fillets to serving plates and drizzle with any melted butter from the pan.
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a bright, elegant presentation.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your baked red snapper with these delicious sides for a complete meal:
- Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Rice or Quinoa – Perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad – Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Grilled Zucchini or Broccoli – For an extra healthy and vibrant plate.
💡 Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Snapper: Fresh fish delivers the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven — snapper cooks quickly!
- Try New Herbs: Basil, chives, or rosemary make delicious substitutions.
- Double the Butter: Make extra lemon herb butter to drizzle over sides or store for future meals.
🔄 Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a touch of heat.
- Mediterranean Style: Top with cherry tomatoes, capers, and olives before baking.
- Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lemon, lime, and orange zest for a tropical twist.
- Grilled Version: Grill the fish instead of baking for a smoky, summery flavor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! This recipe works beautifully with cod, halibut, or tilapia.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare the lemon herb butter and season the fish up to a day in advance. Store separately and bake just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely — it’s naturally gluten-free.
Can I replace the butter?
Use olive oil or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter or vegan-friendly version.
✨ Conclusion
This Baked Red Snapper with Lemon Herb Butter is a simple yet sophisticated dish that delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. The combination of buttery richness, zesty citrus, and tender fish makes it an unforgettable meal — perfect for any occasion.
Serve it fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides, and enjoy a taste of coastal luxury at home!
🕒 Recipe Summary
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes