Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that feels both elegant and comforting at the same time. Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce is one of those recipes that perfectly fits the bill. Flaky, tender fish fillets are baked to perfection and then drizzled with a velvety, tangy cream sauce infused with fresh lemon. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

This dish strikes the ideal balance of light and rich—the mild fish pairs beautifully with the luscious cream, while the lemon cuts through with a refreshing brightness. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without being heavy, making it a favorite for seafood lovers and anyone looking for a restaurant-style dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly.
Versatile fish options: Works with cod, tilapia, haddock, halibut, snapper, or your favorite white fish.
Flavor balance: Creamy sauce is lightened by citrus, giving you a fresh, vibrant taste.
Elegant yet approachable: Suitable for casual meals or special occasions.
Customizable: Can be adapted with herbs, spices, or vegetable sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fish:

4 white fish fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless and boneless)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, adds a touch of color)

For the Lemon Cream Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
Juice of 1 fresh lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a richer sauce)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Place fillets on a greased baking dish.
Brush with olive oil or melted butter, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in broth and simmer for 2 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
Stir in cream, lemon juice, and zest. Reduce heat and let simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan cheese (if using) and whisk until smooth.
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Once the fish is baked, transfer to serving plates.
Spoon the warm lemon cream sauce generously over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon zest.
Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

What Type of Fish Works Best?

This recipe is versatile, and you can use almost any mild white fish. Great options include:

Cod → firm and meaty, holds up well to baking.
Tilapia → budget-friendly and mild in flavor.
Haddock → slightly sweet and flaky.
Snapper or grouper → light, fresh taste.
Halibut → thicker fillets, perfect for special occasions.

Avoid oily fish like salmon or mackerel here, since the creamy sauce pairs best with mild varieties.

Flavor Variations

Herbed Lemon Cream Sauce: Add fresh dill, basil, or thyme to the sauce.
Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Garlic-Lovers Version: Double the garlic in the sauce for a stronger punch.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Lighter Sauce: Swap half the cream for milk or unsweetened almond milk.

Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly

Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini roasted with olive oil and herbs.
Rice or grains: Lemon rice, quinoa, or couscous soak up the sauce beautifully.
Potatoes: Mashed, roasted, or boiled potatoes add heartiness.
Light salads: A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette keeps the meal fresh and balanced.
Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into extra sauce.

Tips for Perfect Results

Don’t overbake: Fish cooks quickly—check at 12 minutes and adjust.
Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh citrus.
Room temperature fish: Let fillets sit at room temp for 10 minutes before baking for more even cooking.
Consistency of sauce: If too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of broth.
Presentation tip: Garnish with thin lemon slices or parsley sprigs for a restaurant-worthy look.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s nourishing too:

Fish: A lean source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Lemon: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
Cream (in moderation): Adds richness and flavor while providing calcium.

By pairing with light sides, you can create a wholesome, balanced meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make ahead: Bake the fish and prepare the sauce separately. Combine just before serving for best texture.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Can I grill the fish instead?
Absolutely—grilling adds a smoky flavor, and you can still serve it with the lemon cream sauce.

Is this sauce good on other proteins?
Yes! It pairs wonderfully with shrimp, scallops, or even chicken.

How do I thicken the sauce more?
Let it simmer longer, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce is a true weeknight hero—fast, easy, and utterly satisfying. The creamy lemon sauce transforms simple baked fish into a dish that feels gourmet without requiring advanced cooking skills. It’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite herbs, side dishes, or fish varieties, ensuring it never gets boring.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its flavor, texture, and presentation. Next time you’re craving something comforting yet light, skip the takeout and whip up this elegant seafood dinner right in your kitchen.