Creole Baked Fish
A flavorful Creole baked fish dish featuring a savory tomato and onion sauce, seasoned with thyme and lemon, topped with bread crumbs and baked to perfection. Perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dress the fish and split it.
- Place the fish in an oiled pan.
- Sprinkle the fish with garlic salt and pepper.
- Heat butter in the pan and sauté the chopped onion and tomatoes for five minutes.
- Stir in thyme, lemon juice, and water.
- Pour the sauce over the fish.
- Mix bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and lemon peel.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the fish.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider marinating the fish in lemon juice and garlic salt for 30 minutes before cooking. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned tomatoes work well too. You can substitute the fish with any firm white fish, such as cod or sole. To add a bit of heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the breadcrumb mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creole Baked Fish with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh green salad, such as Potato Shoestring Salad, to complement its flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables or a light pasta dish.
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 for about 15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out. Avoid microwaving as it may result in a rubbery texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Baked Fish contains roughly 273 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% 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, frozen fish can be used, but ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This will help the seasonings adhere better and improve the overall texture of the dish.
What type of fish is best for baking?
Firm white fish like cod, halibut, or sole are excellent choices for baking as they hold their shape and have a mild flavor. For a more adventurous option, try using catfish, which can also be baked with great results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fish and sauce ahead of time. Layer the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, uncover and allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
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).