This yummy dish features tilapia seasoned just right and served in a creamy roasted pepper sauce. It’s rich, colorful, and oh-so-satisfying to eat!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just sear the fish and then pour on that creamy sauce. I love to pair it with rice, so every bite is extra tasty. Who knew dinner could be this simple? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This fish is mild and flaky, perfect for this dish. If tilapia isn’t available, you could use other mild white fish such as cod, haddock, or even chicken breast for a different texture.
Roasted Red Peppers: You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience, but if you have fresh peppers, roasting them yourself adds a great flavor! Simply grill or roast them until charred and peel off the skin.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk. I’ve used coconut milk before, and it gave a unique twist while keeping it creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the milk.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Tilapia to Keep it Tender?
Cooking tilapia properly ensures it stays tender and moist. Here’s how to do it:
- This fish cooks quickly, so don’t overdo it. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the fish for a nice sear.
- Don’t move the fish around too much as it cooks. Let it get a nice golden crust before flipping.
- If the tilapia starts to flake easily when you poke it with a fork, it’s done!
These tips will help ensure your tilapia turns out perfectly every time!
Easy Tilapia in Creamy Roasted Pepper Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or freshly roasted), chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shallots, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious tilapia dish will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and satisfying meal that you can enjoy in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tilapia:
Start by patting the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides of the fillets with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.
2. Cook the Tilapia:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, gently add the tilapia fillets. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Carefully remove the fish from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce Base:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until everything is fragrant and the shallots are soft but not browned.
4. Add Roasted Red Peppers:
Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and let them cook for an additional 2 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle into the sauce beautifully.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir it often, letting it simmer for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly—it’s going to be delicious!
6. Incorporate Cheese and More Flavor:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and squeeze in the lemon juice. Stir the mixture until the cheese has melted and the sauce has become creamy and smooth.
7. Combine the Tilapia with the Sauce:
Carefully return the tilapia fillets back to the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy roasted pepper sauce over the fish. Let everything warm together for about 1-2 minutes to soak in the flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a pretty finish, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top, along with a bit more Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve your creamy tilapia immediately over steamed rice or pasta to really enjoy that sauce!
This easy and rich dish is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy every bite of your creamy roasted pepper tilapia!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tilapia for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen tilapia completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or place the sealed fillets in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning!
How Can I Make a Lighter Version of This Dish?
If you want to lighten things up, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and low-sodium chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk for creaminess without the dairy.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy tilapia pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, pasta, or even quinoa. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad also make great sides to balance the richness of the sauce!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the tilapia in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
