Lemon Butter Baked Fish
Lemon Butter Baked Fish offers tender catfish fillets infused with fresh lemon and parsley, baked to fluffy perfection—ideal for a flavorful, easy-to-make seafood dinner for 2 to 3 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange the catfish fillets in a 12 x 8 x 2-inch dish with the thickest, meaty areas toward the outside edge.
- Sprinkle the fillets with salt and pepper.
- In a 1-quart casserole dish, melt the butter in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice into the melted butter.
- Pour the butter mixture over the fish fillets.
- Sprinkle paprika evenly over the fillets.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the fillets are fluffy.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of white wine to the butter mixture. If catfish is unavailable, tilapia or cod can be used as substitutes. Adjust the salt based on your preference and dietary needs, especially if using salted butter. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also enhance the dish's freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon butter baked fish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, like Aloha Shrimp Salad, for a light meal. It pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious butter sauce. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked fish can be stored 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 heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Butter Baked Fish contains roughly 268 calories, with 18g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (167% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (110% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 catfish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed before baking, as this will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the butter and seasonings.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly, but it will still yield a delicious dish.
How do I know when the fish is done baking?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque. For catfish, an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is recommended. 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).