Baked Croaker
Baked croaker features tender fish infused with lemon, butter, and Old Bay seasoning, complemented by sweet onions. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking a flavorful, easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cleaned fish in a greased baking dish.
- Arrange onion slices under, over, and in the fish.
- Place approximately 1 tablespoon of butter in each fish.
- Pour lemon juice into the baking dish.
- Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning and sugar over the fish.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 30 to 45 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley inside the croaker. If you don't have Old Bay seasoning, a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper works well. Ensure the fish is thoroughly cleaned to avoid any unpleasant taste. You can also substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter option, which pairs beautifully with this baked fish dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked croaker with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs nicely with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices. For a delightful contrast, consider pairing it with Luscious Jello Salad for a colorful and refreshing touch to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covering it with foil to retain moisture. This will help maintain the fish's tenderness and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Croaker contains roughly 426 calories, with 7g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen croaker for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen croaker, but ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before preparing. This will help achieve the best texture and flavor. Adjust baking time slightly if the fish is still a bit cold during cooking.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice, white wine or vinegar can be used as a substitute. They will provide acidity and enhance the fish's flavor. However, keep in mind that using vinegar may alter the taste slightly, so adjust to taste.
How can I tell when the croaker is done baking?
The croaker is done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).