Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut is a delightful seafood dish that combines the mild, flaky texture of halibut with a rich, savory topping. This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, offering a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of spice creates a delectable crust.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from rice to roasted vegetables.
- Healthy: Halibut is a lean source of protein, and baking reduces the need for excess oil.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
- 4–6 cloves garlic, crushed
- Dash of Tabasco sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 4 halibut fillets (approximately 1 inch thick)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Prepare Halibut: Season the halibut fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Place them in a baking dish.
- Initial Bake: Bake the seasoned halibut for 6 minutes.
- Prepare Topping: In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, chopped green onion, crushed garlic, and a dash of Tabasco sauce.
- Apply Topping: Remove the halibut from the oven and spread the Parmesan mixture over the top and sides of the fish.
- Broil: Turn the oven to broil and cook the halibut for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as rice and vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping mixture for extra heat.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the topping for added freshness.
- Alternative Fish: Substitute halibut with other white fish like cod or tilapia if desired.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture of the topping.
FAQs
How do I know when the halibut is fully cooked?
The halibut is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
Can I use frozen halibut fillets?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and baking.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Common pairings include rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the topping?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I prepare the topping in advance?
Yes, the topping mixture can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, especially the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free.
What wine pairs well with Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the flavors well.
Can I grill the halibut instead of baking?
Grilling is possible, but be cautious as the topping may melt off. It’s recommended to use a grill-safe pan.
How do I prevent the topping from burning under the broiler?
Keep a close eye during broiling and adjust the rack position to avoid burning.
Can I add breadcrumbs to the topping for extra crunch?
Yes, adding a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs can provide a delightful crunch.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the best in seafood. Its quick preparation and rich flavors make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious baked halibut recipe topped with a savory garlic Parmesan crust, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or elegant seafood meal.
Ingredients
- 4 halibut fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, and parsley to form a moist crumb mixture.
- Spoon and gently press the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch but regular breadcrumbs can also be used.
- Swap halibut with cod or haddock if preferred.
- Great with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or salad.
- Don’t overbake—the fish is done when it flakes easily and is opaque.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 85mg