If you are looking for a dish that is both effortlessly elegant and bursting with rich flavor, this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender haddock fillets are bathed in a luscious blend of melted butter, zesty lemon, and savory spices before being topped with a crunchy, golden breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. The combination is irresistible—moist fish with a crisp, cheesy topping that’s perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss. This recipe brings out the best in haddock with layers of buttery goodness and vibrant seasonings that will have you wiping your plate clean every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, but every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the richness of butter to the sharpness of Parmesan, each component enhances the dish while keeping it straightforward and accessible.
- 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each): Fresh or thawed, these flaky white fish fillets are the mild-star of the dish.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds luscious moisture and helps the topping crisp up beautifully.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular): Provides the delightful crunch that contrasts the tender fish.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, nutty depth to the crunchy topping.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with fresh citrus notes.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic warmth without overpowering the fish.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and enhances the golden color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges (for garnish): Provides a burst of color and extra fresh flavor when serving.
How to Make Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and to help achieve a nicely browned crust on the fish. This simple preparation step gets everything ready so the haddock cooks evenly and the topping crisps just right.
Step 2: Mix the Butter and Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. This blend infuses the butter with bright, tangy, and savory notes that perfectly complement the fish. This flavorful mixture will both moisten the fillets and keep them tender during baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Haddock Fillets
Arrange your haddock fillets in the greased baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle half of the butter mixture evenly over the fillets, ensuring each piece is coated. This coats the fish with a layer of flavor and moisture before adding the crunchy topping.
Step 4: Combine and Apply the Topping
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and season them with salt and pepper. This mixture adds that signature crunchy, cheesy layer. Sprinkle it generously over each fillet, then drizzle the remaining butter mixture on top to encourage browning and richness as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is gorgeously golden brown. This bake time locks in the fish’s juiciness under that satisfying crust you’ll want to savor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish the buttery baked haddock with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. The parsley adds a fresh pop of green color, while the lemon wedges allow everyone to add an extra zing of citrus at the table for a personalized finish.
How to Serve Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet effective, fresh parsley gives a lovely herbal lift and brightens the plate visually. Lemon wedges aren’t just decoration—they add an invigorating pop of acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese, balancing each bite perfectly.
Side Dishes
This butter-baked haddock shines alongside light, fresh sides that won’t overpower its delicate flavor. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus are crisp companions, while a fluffy rice pilaf or creamy mashed potatoes soak up the buttery juices deliciously. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette also pairs beautifully for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the haddock on a bed of wilted spinach lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil. Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch and drizzle with a little of the pan juices. Alternatively, plate the fish atop a bright beet and orange salad for a colorful, restaurant-style experience that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover butter-baked haddock should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days. Keep the topping intact as much as possible to maintain texture. If the topping softens, you can always crisp it up in the oven when reheating.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked haddock by wrapping each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cooked fish is best consumed within one month to avoid texture degradation. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the haddock on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This helps rejuvenate the buttery crust, bringing back some of the original crispiness without drying out the tender fish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe?
Absolutely! While haddock is ideal because of its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can swap in cod, pollock, or even tilapia for similar results. Just adjust the baking time slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level more precisely, especially since both Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs can add saltiness. However, if you only have salted butter on hand, reduce or skip the additional salt in the seasoning steps.
Can I prepare this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe in advance?
You can assemble the fish and topping ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan adds a nutty sharpness that complements the breadcrumbs perfectly, but if you’re out, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a sharp aged cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I know when the haddock is fully cooked?
The best test is to use a fork and gently flake the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily and looks opaque all the way through, it’s done. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and fish thickness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the buttery, golden crust of this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe paired with the tender, flaky fish underneath. It’s a dish that feels special yet comes together with humble ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do sharing it. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite for your dinner rotation!
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Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Butter-Baked Haddock recipe features tender haddock fillets coated in a flavorful garlic, paprika, and lemon butter mixture, topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple yet elegant seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
Butter Mixture
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Prepare butter mixture: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the melted unsalted butter with lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika to create a flavorful baste for the haddock.
- Arrange fish: Place the haddock fillets evenly in the greased baking dish and drizzle half of the prepared butter mixture over them, coating each piece well.
- Make breadcrumb topping: In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the fish fillets in the dish. Then, drizzle the remaining butter mixture on top to add richness and help the topping brown.
- Bake the haddock: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness and a zesty finish, then serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the haddock fillets are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a subtle heat.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
