If you are searching for a delicious, comforting dish that brings the perfect balance of buttery richness and tender flaky fish, the Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a delightful baked creation where the haddock is infused with luscious melted butter, bright lemon notes, and a crispy, golden topping. It’s not just an easy weeknight dinner—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special without any fuss, making your kitchen smell like a seafood bistro in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the delicate mildness of fresh haddock fillets to the crunchy, flavorful topping that adds just the right texture. Let me walk you through the essentials.
- Haddock fillets: Choose fresh or thawed fillets, about 6 ounces each, for tender, flaky fish.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to infuse the dish with rich, creamy moisture and carry the spices beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular, they create a crispy, golden crust that locks in flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory note that complements the breadcrumbs perfectly.
- Lemon juice: Offers a bright, fresh zing that cuts through the buttery richness.
- Garlic powder: Provides a warm, subtle depth of flavor without overwhelming the fish.
- Paprika: Gives a hint of color and mild smokiness to the topping.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every layer of the dish.
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges: For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color to the final presentation.
How to Make Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and to allow the haddock to bake evenly in its butter bath. This step sets the stage for juicy, perfectly cooked fish every time.
Step 2: Mix the Butter and Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. This mixture will bring both flavor and moisture to the haddock, ensuring each bite is aromatic and satisfying.
Step 3: Arrange Fish and Add First Butter Drizzle
Place the haddock fillets neatly in your prepared baking dish. Drizzle half of the butter and spice mixture over the tops. This initial layer starts dissolving into the fish as it bakes, creating a base of richness.
Step 4: Prepare and Sprinkle the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the fillets, then drizzle the remaining butter mixture on top. This layering helps the topping achieve a beautifully golden, crunchy texture when baked.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Flaky
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown, and the haddock flakes easily with a fork. The butter will have permeated the fish, creating a luscious, tender main dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing the baked haddock with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges. These not only brighten the plate but also add a fresh herbal and citrusy contrast to the buttery fish.
How to Serve Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top instantly elevates the look, adding vibrant green hues and a subtle herbaceous note. Lemon wedges on the side invite diners to brighten their portions with a fresh squeeze, cutting the richness and balancing the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve this butter-baked haddock alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf to soak up every delicious drop of butter. Steamed green beans, sautéed asparagus, or a fresh garden salad add crisp texture and color, making the meal wholesome and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, plate each haddock fillet on a bed of herbed couscous or quinoa. Drizzle a little of the buttery pan juices around the plate, and add a delicate sprinkle of breadcrumbs toasted with Parmesan for extra crunch. This simple tactic turns weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy the rich, buttery flavors again without sacrificing texture.
Freezing
If you want to save leftovers for longer, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Haddock freezes well for up to one month, maintaining the quality and taste so you can indulge at your convenience.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes to recapture the crispy topping and tender fish texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the fish and diminish that delicious buttery crust.
FAQs
Can I use another type of fish instead of haddock?
Absolutely! Cod, pollock, or even tilapia are great substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking time might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to ensure the dish remains just as crispy and delicious without gluten.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake later?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to the step before baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
You can omit it or substitute with a hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar savory punch in the topping.
Final Thoughts
This Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Its buttery crust paired with flaky, tender fish makes every meal feel like a celebration. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to dinners, perfect for both cozy nights in and impressing friends at your next gathering.
Print
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 baked to perfection with a flavorful buttery sauce, a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan topping, and zesty lemon accents. It’s an easy, delicious seafood dish that comes together quickly in the oven, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
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 Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to blend the flavors evenly.
- Arrange Haddock: Place the haddock fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle half of the butter mixture evenly over the fillets to infuse them with flavor.
- Make Topping and Apply: In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the fillets. Then drizzle the remaining butter mixture on top to moisten the breadcrumb layer.
- Bake the Haddock: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an added citrus burst.
Notes
- Use fresh haddock fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier topping but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on your preference.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- This recipe can be paired nicely with steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
