Oven Baked Blackened Tilapia

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Step 2

Combine 3 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon onion powder, one teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon dry thyme, one teaspoon dry oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. The cayenne heat level will be 9/10 at 1 teaspoon, 7/10 at 1/2 teaspoon and 3-4/10 at 1/4 teaspoon.

Step 3

This makes more seasoning than you need and save it tightly sealed for another cooking. You should only use 1/3 to 1/2 of this per pound of tilapia.

Step 4

Line a sheet pan with foil and add 2 tablespoon olive oil. Brush it over the foil in an area that will have fish.

Step 5

Rinse and pat dry 1 pound of tilapia. Brush with olive oil. Cover the fillets with the spices and rub it in (both sides). Use only about 1/3 - 1/2 of what you mixed. Save the rest for another cooking.

Step 6

Place on the oiled pan and give a light spray of PAM. Place in the preheated oven.

Step 7

If you want a homemade tartar sauce, combine 1/3 cup mayo, 2 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Mix well.

Step 8

Cook until nicely brown and flaky. Internal temperature should be 145 degrees. This is about 10 minutes for big fillets and a minute or two less for small to medium fillets. Be sure to check the fish a few minutes before you think it should be done.