Baked Stuffed Fish
Baked stuffed fish offers a savory, tender seafood dish filled with flavorful bread cubes, butter, and grated onion, topped with paprika for a hint of spice. Perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions, this dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying, elegant meal that highlights the delicate taste of fish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the fish by cleaning and patting it dry.
- In a bowl, combine bread cubes, grated onion, salt, and melted butter.
- Stuff the mixture into the cavity of the fish, securing with toothpicks or string if necessary.
- Place the stuffed fish on a baking dish.
- Sprinkle paprika over the top of the fish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and golden.
- Remove from oven, remove toothpicks or string, and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or parsley into the stuffing mixture. If you don't have bread cubes, crushed crackers or cooked quinoa can serve as excellent substitutes. Ensure the fish is well-seasoned to enhance its natural taste. For a variation, try using a mix of seafood, like shrimp or crab, for a unique twist on this baked dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked stuffed fish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. A light lemon butter sauce can elevate the flavors. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it with crusty bread or rice pilaf. This dish also pairs beautifully with Shrimp Cocktail as a starter.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked stuffed fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Stuffed Fish contains roughly 178 calories, with 11g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1602mg per serving (70% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish, but ensure it is fully thawed before preparing. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture when baked. Frozen fish may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
What type of fish works best for stuffing?
Firm white fish like cod, haddock, or snapper are excellent choices for stuffing due to their texture and flavor. They hold up well during baking and allow the stuffing flavors to complement the fish. Avoid delicate fish like sole, as they may fall apart.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed fish a few hours ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just cover it with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's chilled.
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).