If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances rich buttery flavor with tender, flaky fish, then the Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe is here to steal your heart and your fork. This dish brings out the best in simple ingredients, wrapping delicate haddock fillets in a golden crust of buttery, garlicky breadcrumbs, brightened by a squeeze of fresh lemon. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance effortlessly, making every mouthful a delightful celebration of flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe is straightforward thanks to its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each element adds its own unique touch—whether it’s the buttery richness, the crunchy topping, or that subtle zing of lemon that brightens the whole dish.
- 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm haddock for tender, flaky results.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds a luscious, silky coating that keeps the fish moist and rich.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular): The crunchy crust comes from these, offering a delightful contrast to the soft fish.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth that enhances the topping’s flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens and balances the buttery flavors with a fresh, tangy kick.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the dish with warm, inviting aroma and subtle spice.
- 1 tsp paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness and lovely color that makes the dish visually appealing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors into harmony.
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and freshness at the very end.
How to Make Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and help the crust crisp up beautifully. This simple prep sets the stage for that perfectly baked finish you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Mix the Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. This mixture is where the magic begins—the butter lends moisture, while the lemon and spices pack in flavor that will infuse the haddock as it bakes.
Step 3: Arrange and Drizzle
Place your haddock fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the butter mixture over the fish, making sure each fillet gets a nice coating. This helps lock in moisture so the fish stays incredibly tender inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each haddock fillet. Then drizzle the remaining butter mixture on top—this will help the topping turn golden and crispy while adding extra depth to every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish easily flakes with a fork and the breadcrumb topping has developed a gorgeous golden-brown crust. The aroma at this point is positively irresistible!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the fish and serve with bright lemon wedges on the side. This extra touch adds freshness and a beautiful burst of color that makes your meal feel complete and inviting.
How to Serve Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges are your best friends here. The parsley adds a lovely herbal note and visual freshness, while lemon wedges allow everyone to customize the brightness level to their liking. Don’t underestimate how much a simple squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. Each side helps balance the richness of the buttery haddock and adds varied textures to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, try plating the haddock atop a bed of lemon-herb quinoa, or serve alongside colorful roasted vegetables arranged in neat rows. You can even toast the breadcrumbs separately and sprinkle extra on top for an added crunch right before serving. A few edible flowers or microgreens can transform this comfort dish into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Properly stored, your cooked butter-baked haddock will stay fresh for up to 2 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, making for a great next-day meal.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked haddock if needed. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. For best quality, consume within one month to preserve the buttery crust and tender fish texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the haddock in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispness of the topping without drying out the fish, unlike microwaving which can make it rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While haddock is ideal due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with cod, pollock, or even halibut if you prefer. Each will bring a slightly different texture but pair beautifully with the buttery topping.
Is Panko breadcrumbs necessary?
Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their extra crunch and light texture, but regular breadcrumbs work perfectly fine as well. The key is choosing a crumb that creates a nice golden crust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. The flavor and texture remain delicious while keeping it allergy-friendly.
How do I know when the fish is perfectly cooked?
The best indicator is when the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque all the way through. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye during baking and start checking at the 20-minute mark.
Can I prepare the Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish up to the breadcrumb topping stage and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add the final drizzle of butter before putting it in the oven to keep everything moist and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish as comforting yet elegant as this Butter-Baked Haddock Recipe. It manages to be both simple and deeply flavorful, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser anytime you serve it. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and watch how a few humble ingredients can come together to create a truly unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!
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
A simple and flavorful Butter-Baked Haddock recipe featuring tender haddock fillets baked with a delicious buttery breadcrumb topping, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly golden and flaky, this easy oven-baked fish dish is garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish.
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 the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Mix Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Arrange Fish and Drizzle Butter: Place the haddock fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish and drizzle half of the butter mixture over them to coat evenly and infuse flavor.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the haddock fillets.
- Drizzle Remaining Butter and Bake: Pour the remaining butter mixture over the breadcrumb topping, then bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing the baked haddock with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed haddock for the best texture and flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier topping but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Do not overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
