Name: Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb tilapia fillets; 3 tbsp butter; salt and pepper to taste; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 6 oz roasted peppers, chopped; 6 oz roasted peppers, pureed; ¾ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; chopped parsley; additional grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 3 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both elegant and surprisingly simple, this Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. The tender, flaky tilapia pairs perfectly with a luscious roasted pepper sauce that’s creamy, vibrant, and packed with flavor. It’s a gorgeous, restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this delightful combo, it will quickly become one of your favorites for good reason.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan filled with three layers visible from above: the bottom layer is a chunky red tomato sauce mixed with small pieces of onion spread unevenly, the middle layer is a thick, creamy white sauce partially covering the tomato sauce in the center and edges, and the top layer is a pile of finely shredded white cheese placed in the middle of the pan. The pan has a silver handle and is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is straightforward but essential because each one brings something special to the plate. From the richness of butter and Parmesan to the sweet, smoky depth of roasted peppers, every element plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of taste, color, and texture.

1 lb tilapia fillets: Tender and mild, tilapia is a perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the sauce.
3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps develop a beautiful sautéed base.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides a natural sweetness and texture contrast.
2 garlic cloves: Infuses an aromatic, savory punch to the sauce.
6 oz roasted peppers, chopped: Offers sweetness and a bright, smoky flavor; fresh roasted or jarred both work.
6 oz roasted peppers, pureed: Blended to create a smooth, silky sauce body.
¾ cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, creamy texture.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Chopped parsley to garnish: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.

How to Make Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Tilapia

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is hot and foaming, add your tilapia fillets. Cook them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Then, transfer the cooked fish onto a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss in the diced onion. Sauté the onion gently for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. This step is key because your onions form the delicious flavor foundation of the sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Roasted Peppers

Next, stir in the garlic cloves, finely chopped, followed by both the chopped and pureed roasted peppers. Let this mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the smoky roasted pepper flavors to mingle with the onions and garlic, creating an irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Turn the heat off and stir the sauce gently, allowing the cheese to melt into the cream and blend perfectly with the roasted pepper base. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt if needed—you want a well-balanced, creamy sauce that complements but doesn’t overpower the tilapia.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked tilapia to the pan and nestle it gently into the luscious roasted pepper cream sauce. Spoon the sauce generously over each fillet to fully coat them in that velvety goodness. Let the fish warm in the sauce for a minute or two, then you’re ready for that finishing touch.

How to Serve Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a creamy orange sauce with visible chunks of red and green herbs spread thickly over what looks like a soft white fish. The fish is firm and flaky, with parts broken apart by a shiny silver fork placed at the bottom right of the image. The sauce has a smooth, rich texture with small bits of tomato and flecks of seasoning throughout, creating a vibrant, colorful top layer. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley is the perfect herbaceous, colorful garnish that brightens the dish both visually and in flavor. You can also sprinkle a bit more grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory pop.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside light, simple sides that soak up the delicious sauce. Consider serving it with garlic-infused mashed potatoes, fluffy risotto, or a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the tilapia fillets stacked slightly on each other while drizzling the sauce elegantly around the plate. Garnish with a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge to add a fresh, zesty note. Using shallow bowls instead of flat plates emphasizes the creamy sauce and makes every bite more indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 2 days. Storing the fish in the sauce helps maintain moisture so the flavors meld nicely overnight.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the tilapia fillets tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. The sauce may slightly change texture after freezing, so it’s best to use within one month for optimal flavor and quality.

Reheating

Reheat the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to allow the sauce to warm evenly without separating. Avoid microwave reheating as it may cause the cream sauce to split. A slow reheat keeps that sauce just as luscious as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish instead of tilapia?

Absolutely! While tilapia’s mild flavor is ideal for this dish, you can substitute it with other white fish like cod, sole, or even sea bass. Just adjust cooking times depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Do I have to roast the peppers myself?

Not necessarily. Store-bought jarred roasted red peppers work wonderfully and save time. Just ensure they’re of good quality, and you can chop and puree them straight from the jar.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just double-check labels if using jarred items to be sure.

Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream, and omit or replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar umami effect.

How spicy is the roasted pepper sauce?

The roasted pepper sauce is mild with a sweet and smoky profile rather than spicy. If you want to add a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic and onions.

Final Thoughts

Making this Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe feels like treating yourself to something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant roasted pepper sauce paired with tender fish strikes a perfect balance that’s both comforting and elegant. I can’t wait for you to discover how easy and satisfying this dish is—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!