Traditional Oven-Baked Flounder

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful way to prepare fish, this Traditional Oven-Baked Flounder recipe is a must-try. With a crispy breadcrumb coating and a hint of Parmesan, it's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Traditional Oven-Baked Flounder

Flounder fillets are lean and mild, making them an excellent canvas for the flavors in this dish. All-purpose flour gives the fish a light coating that helps the egg adhere. Eggs act as a sticky binder for the breadcrumbs, ensuring a crispy, flavorful crust. Breadcrumbs provide texture, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. A bit of salt, black pepper, and paprika round out the seasoning. Finally, unsalted butter adds richness and helps the crust crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
  • Make sure your fillets are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
  • If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This flounder pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen flounder?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading.
What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or omit it altogether, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Traditional Oven-Baked Flounder Recipe Walkthrough

First, get your oven preheated to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Next, set up your breading station. In a shallow dish, mix the flour with salt, black pepper, and paprika. In another dish, beat the eggs until they're smooth. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Now, take each flounder fillet and coat it in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess; you want just a thin layer. Next, dip the fillet into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press the fish into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated. Place the fillets on your prepared baking sheet.

Drizzle the melted butter over the fish. This step is key for achieving that golden, crispy finish without frying. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You'll know it's done when the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses common pantry ingredients.
  • Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
  • Light yet satisfying, perfect for any season.

Ingredients

1 lb flounder fillets
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth.
4. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese.
5. Dip each flounder fillet first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
6. Place the coated fillets onto the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with melted butter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

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