There’s something magical about searing a delicate piece of tilapia and letting it simmer in a creamy roasted pepper sauce. It’s the kind of dinner that tastes like you put in extra effort — but only takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is all about bold flavors with very little fuss. The sweetness of roasted red peppers paired with a silky sauce brings restaurant-quality taste right to your table.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner, Fish | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 4 servings | ~280 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4–6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Season the fish: Pat tilapia fillets dry and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Sear the fillets: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tilapia and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Blend peppers: Puree roasted red peppers in a blender until smooth, then add to the skillet.
- Simmer gently: Stir in chicken broth, cream, paprika, and chili flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return fish to pan: Place tilapia back in skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve & garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or rice.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Don’t overcook the tilapia: It cooks quickly and stays tender if you remove it once it flakes easily with a fork.
- Thicker sauce? Let it simmer a little longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stove.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Use chicken breast cutlets, shrimp, or salmon instead of tilapia.
- Lighter Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a healthier sauce.
- Extra Spice: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tilapia over a bed of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even pasta to soak up that luscious sauce. Pair with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Quick Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce is one of those recipes that makes dinner feel a little special without being complicated. It’s fast, cozy, and full of flavor — perfect for sharing with your loved ones around the table. So grab a skillet, whip up this sauce, and savor every bite!