Butter-Herbed Baked Fish
Butter-Herbed Baked Fish offers a flavorful, crispy crust with savory herbs and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner suitable for seafood lovers and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Combine crushed saltines or Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Dip fish fillets in melted butter, then into the crumb mixture to coat.
- Arrange coated fillets in the baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have saltines or Ritz crackers on hand, crushed panko breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes can work as great substitutes. To add a bit of zest, consider mixing in some lemon zest to the crumb mixture. This dish is reminiscent of traditional American recipes, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked fish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with a lemon wedge for added brightness. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa. This recipe makes a delightful main dish inspired by classic seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the crust remains crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter-Herbed Baked Fish contains roughly 288 calories, with 18g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (116% of the Daily Value), calcium (72% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1408mg per serving (61% 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 fresh fish instead of frozen fillets?
Yes, fresh fish fillets can be used instead of frozen. Just ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry before coating. Fresh fillets may require slightly less baking time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, consider using Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor profile. Nutritional yeast is also a great dairy-free alternative that can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I add vegetables to the baking pan?
Absolutely! Adding thinly sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to the baking pan can enhance the dish. Just ensure that the vegetables are cut uniformly and placed around the fish so they cook evenly alongside it.
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).