Picture this: tender, flaky fish that melts in your mouth, drizzled with a hint of lemon and topped with fresh parsley. This Baked White Fish Recipe is all about simple flavors that come together to create a dish that’s not just easy to make but also feels like a warm hug on a cozy evening. It’s creamy without any cream, making it a lighter choice that still packs a flavor punch. Whether you’re enjoying this with family or impressing friends, you’ll feel like a kitchen pro in no time!
This dish shines during the cooler months, making it perfect for those crisp autumn evenings when all you want is comfort food that’s not too heavy. Plus, with just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip it up without any stress. The smell that wafts through your kitchen while it bakes? Absolutely irresistible! Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in.
You can easily switch up the sides or keep it simple. Serve it with roasted veggies, some fluffy quinoa, or a side salad, and you’re all set for a delightful meal. Baked white fish is not just delicious; it’s also a healthy option packed with protein and essential nutrients.
So let’s get cooking! This low-effort meal will quickly become a weeknight favorite.
Why You’ll Love Baked White Fish Recipe (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
Imagine biting into a perfectly baked fillet that’s buttery and infused with garlic and herbs. The texture is so silky that it practically glides off your fork! Here’s why this recipe is going to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Speedy Cooking: You can have this on the dinner table in under 30 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: Most are pantry staples, so no special trips to the store!
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy the leftovers.
- Dietary Notes: Low-carb, protein-rich, and suitable for a range of dietary lifestyles.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Ready to treat yourself to a cozy dinner?
The Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked White Fish Recipe
- 6 haddock fillets (6 ounces each; can also use cod or tilapia) – The hero of the dish, yielding a soft texture.
- Olive oil spray – A light coating to keep the fish moist while baking.
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt – Enhances the fish’s natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of warmth without overwhelming the fish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory note that pairs perfectly with the fish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Offers an earthy aroma and taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Gives a subtle smoky flavor and a lovely color.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter – Provides that rich, creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed) – Brightens up the dish with a refreshing zing.
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Lemon slices (for serving) – Perfect for an extra squeeze of citrus.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Baked White Fish Recipe
Phase 1 – Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gives your fish a nice, even cook.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Spray the parchment lightly with olive oil to help prevent sticking.
- Season your fish by sprinkling salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika on both sides.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Dollop butter on each fillet. You want that creamy goodness to melt over the fish.
- Drizzle lemon juice on top to add a refreshing flavor.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve with lemon slices on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
- Pair with your favorite sides, like steamed veggies or rice.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Fresh Fish: Fresh fish will always taste better, so if you can buy it locally, do it!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the fish; overbaking can make it dry. It’s done when it flakes easily.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to switch up the dried thyme for other herbs like oregano or dill for a twist.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Easy Cleanup: Parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze, so don’t skip it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the fish. Because fish cooks quickly, keep an eye on it and use a fork to check for doneness; it should flake easily. If it gets too dry, there’s no going back, so time it right!
Another mistake is using too much seasoning. While you want flavor, too much salt or spices can overwhelm the delicate fish. Stick to the amounts in the recipe unless you love a strong kick!
Lastly, not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure it’s hot before you add your fish to get that perfect bake every time.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; enjoy it guilt-free!
- Spicy: Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper for a zesty kick.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread.
- Air Fryer: You can cook this in an air fryer for a quicker result; just adjust cooking time to about 10-12 minutes.
How to Serve Baked White Fish Recipe
- Best Pairings: Serve with roasted veggies, a fresh garden salad, or fluffy quinoa.
- Toppings & Garnishes: Try adding capers or sliced almonds for an extra crunch!
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! You can prep the fish the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze the fish before cooking, but cooked fish will lose some texture if frozen. If freezing cooked fish, enjoy it within two months for the best quality.
Reheating
For reheating, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best results.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Just use a little more butter or drizzle with a creamy sauce (like a yogurt sauce) right before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure you have a baking sheet large enough to fit all the fillets without crowding.
How to fix a too-thick sauce?
Simply whisk in a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Don’t miss out on this delicious Baked White Fish Recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s healthy and quick to prepare. Give it a try and let us know how it goes. Happy cooking!
Baked White Fish
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 6 pieces haddock fillets (6 ounces each; can also use cod or tilapia) The hero of the dish, yielding a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt Enhances the fish's natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper A touch of warmth without overwhelming the fish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds a savory note that pairs perfectly with the fish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Offers an earthy aroma and taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika Gives a subtle smoky flavor and a lovely color.
Butter and Garnish
- 4 tablespoons salted butter Provides that rich, creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed) Brightens up the dish with a refreshing zing.
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped, for garnish) Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 1 whole Lemon slices (for serving) Perfect for an extra squeeze of citrus.
Cooking Essentials
- 1 spray Olive oil spray A light coating to keep the fish moist while baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Spray the parchment lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the fish by sprinkling salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika on both sides.
Cooking
- Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Dollop butter on each fillet to melt over the fish.
- Drizzle lemon juice on top for a refreshing flavor.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve with lemon slices on the side and your favorite sides.