Oh, let me tell you about my all-time favorite Baked Haddock recipe! This dish has been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember, and it never fails to impress. The delicate, flaky fish paired with a crispy topping is not only simple to make, but it’s also light and healthy – perfect for any day of the week! Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser during family gatherings. If you’re like me and love seafood, you’ll definitely want to add this to your recipe collection.
I fondly remember the first time I made this Baked Haddock for my friends. I was a little nervous, but seeing their smiles when they took the first bite was absolutely priceless. It’s amazing how a delicious meal can bring people together. And the best part? It only takes about 20 minutes to whip up! Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
What’s in Baked Haddock?
Haddock: The star of the show! Haddock is a mild, flaky white fish that comes out tender and flavorful when baked. I prefer fresh fillets whenever possible, but frozen works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch and texture to the topping. They toast up beautifully, making the fish irresistibly crispy.
Butter: We all know butter adds richness and flavor! I like to use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and complements the fish beautifully. Freshly squeezed is always best, but bottled will do in a pinch.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the fish. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add a bit more!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a savory umami flavor to the party, and it helps the topping brown beautifully.
Is Baked Haddock Good for You?
Absolutely! I adore this recipe not just for its taste, but also for its health benefits. It’s light, low in calories, and rich in protein.
Haddock: As a lean source of protein, it’s great for muscle maintenance and overall health. Plus, it’s loaded with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for heart health.
If you’re mindful of sodium intake, using unsalted butter and controlling the amount of Parmesan cheese can keep this dish heart-friendly while still being delicious!
Ingredients
– 4 haddock fillets (around 6 ounces each)
– 1 cup panko bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
*Serves 4.*
How to Make Baked Haddock?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your haddock gets that perfect golden crust.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
3. Place the haddock fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Take a generous scoop of the breadcrumb mixture and press it onto each fillet – the more topping, the better, in my opinion!
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through (it should flake easily with a fork) and the topping is golden brown.
6. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
A Few Friendly Tips
– If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a dash of your favorite herbs – thyme or dill would work wonders here!
– Serve your Baked Haddock with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
– Don’t be shy about making extra crispy topping—there’s never too much crunch in my book!
I hope you give this Baked Haddock recipe a try! It’s become a cherished favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Remember to share your experience, and let’s keep this culinary adventure going! Happy cooking!
