Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Fish

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you’re on the hunt for a weeknight dinner that’s both deliciously crispy and refreshingly light, look no further than this Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Fish. With a delightful combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s quick to whip up and perfect for any season.

Ingredients for Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Fish

The main star here is the white fish fillets like cod or haddock. They’re mild and flaky, letting the herb crust shine. The breadcrumbs add that essential crunch, while Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty depth. Fresh parsley and dill are the herbs of choice, providing a bright, clean flavor. Lemon zest offers a citrusy zing that pairs beautifully with fish. A touch of salt and black pepper balances everything out. Melted butter and olive oil help the crust adhere and keep the fish moist. Finally, lemon wedges are perfect for squeezing over just before serving to enhance the flavors even more.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispiness, toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a dry pan before mixing them with the cheese and herbs.
  • If you only have dried herbs, use about a third of the amount in place of fresh, but fresh herbs really make a difference.
  • Ensure the fish fillets are of even thickness to cook uniformly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this with a simple arugula salad tossed in olive oil and lemon juice for a light, refreshing meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy IPA would complement the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before coating.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or leave it out if you prefer a lighter crust.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Fish Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the fish will bake evenly and the crust can get nice and golden. While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Grab a mixing bowl and combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until everything is evenly distributed. This is your flavorful crust waiting to happen!

Now, brush each fish fillet with a mix of melted butter and olive oil. The combination of these fats helps the breadcrumb mixture stick nicely and adds moisture to the fish as it bakes.

Time to dredge! Press each buttered fillet into your breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to coat it well on all sides, giving it a gentle press to help the crumbs adhere. Place the crusted fillets on your prepared baking sheet.

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for a golden crust and fish that flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it — everyone’s oven is a little different, and you don’t want to overcook your fish.

Once done, serve these crispy beauties immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon just before digging in really brightens up each bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
  • A healthier spin on the classic fried fish — baked, not fried.
  • Perfectly crispy crust that stays on the fish, not on the baking sheet.
  • Fresh, vibrant flavors from herbs and lemon that brighten up the dish.
  • Simple ingredients you probably already have at home.

Ingredients

4 white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush each fish fillet with melted butter and olive oil.
4. Dredge the fillets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Arrange the fish on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

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