Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Walleye

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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This Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Walleye is a delightful way to enjoy this mild-flavored fish. With its golden, crunchy crust and fresh herbs, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's make walleye the star of your next meal!

Ingredients for Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Walleye

Walleye fillets are mild and flaky, making them ideal for absorbing the flavors of the crust. The panko breadcrumbs create that irresistible crispy texture. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while fresh parsley and dill bring a vibrant herbal note. Garlic powder and onion powder provide subtle background flavors. A touch of salt and black pepper balances the seasoning. Butter, when melted, helps the crust adhere and adds richness. Finally, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up, bringing the dish to life!

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don’t have walleye, tilapia or cod are great substitutes.
  • For an even crispier crust, you can toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan for a few minutes before using.
  • Ensure your fish fillets are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • If your fillets are particularly thick, you might need a few extra minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans. A light, lemony pasta or a quinoa salad would also complement the flavors beautifully. For something heartier, consider serving it with roasted potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use them sparingly. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount.
Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and use a plant-based butter alternative.
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, it should read 145°F (63°C).

Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Walleye Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked fish with a crispy crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Next, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This blend creates an incredible crust full of flavor and crunch.

Now, take each walleye fillet and dip it into the melted butter. This step is crucial because it helps the breadcrumb mixture stick and adds a delicious buttery flavor. After the butter bath, press the fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's well-coated on all sides.

Place the fillets on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the lemon juice over them, adding a zesty freshness that complements the herbs and cheese beautifully.

Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You'll know they're done when the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly.

Once done, serve the walleye immediately with lemon wedges. The fresh squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors and adds a finishing touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The herb crust adds a burst of fresh flavor and texture.
  • A healthier alternative to fried fish, thanks to baking.
  • Minimal cleanup with just one baking sheet required.
  • This dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs walleye fillets
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp lemon juice
Lemon 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 shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each walleye fillet in melted butter and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

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