Baked Fish Fillets
Baked Fish Fillets is a delightful dish that highlights the fresh flavors of fish enhanced by a creamy, buttery sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It's perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, ideal for families or those seeking a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut fish fillets into serving pieces and place in a greased, shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Blend in flour, a dash of salt, and pepper, and add milk.
- Cook and stir until thick.
- Pour sauce over fish and sprinkle breadcrumbs over all.
- Bake at 350° for 35 minutes. Garnish with parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a white fish like cod or tilapia. If you're out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even finely chopped nuts can work as a substitute. To enhance flavor, add herbs like dill or parsley to the sauce. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. This recipe is also great for meal prep; just keep the sauce separate until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked fish fillets with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a healthy meal. A dollop of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon can add brightness to the dish. This pairs beautifully with Maryland Crab Cakes for a seafood-themed dinner. Consider serving with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals until heated through, but this may make the fillets less crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fish Fillets contains roughly 69 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1804mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
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 fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and baking. This will help the coating adhere better and prevent excess moisture in the dish.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free version?
You can substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Coconut oil can also work, but it may impart a slight flavor. Just use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of the baked fish, consider marinating it in lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. Adding a little grated cheese on top before baking can also add a delicious crust.
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).