Lemony-Stuffed Fish Fillets
Lemony-Stuffed Fish Fillets feature tender fish topped with a flavorful stuffing and a fresh lemon butter sauce, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a 1-quart saucepan, melt 1/3 cup butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped celery and onion, and sauté until tender.
- Stir in herb seasoned stuffing mix, chopped parsley, lemon juice, grated lemon peel, salt, and pepper.
- Set aside the stuffing mixture.
- Cut each fish fillet into 8 pieces of approximately 3 x 4 inches.
- Place 4 fillet halves in an ungreased baking dish.
- Top each with 1/4 cup of the stuffing mixture, then place the remaining fillet halves on top.
- Melt another 1/3 cup of butter in a saucepan.
- Stir in dill weed into the melted butter.
- Pour the dill-butter mixture over the fish fillets.
- Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using olive oil instead of butter. You can also substitute the herb seasoned stuffing mix with a homemade blend of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices for a fresher taste. Adding chopped capers or olives to the stuffing can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a different type of fish, tilapia or cod works well in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemony-Stuffed Fish Fillets with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a citrusy quinoa salad or garlic bread for a heartier option. For a delightful finish, consider serving it alongside Vicki'S Crab Dip as an appetizer or light side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemony-Stuffed Fish Fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish covered with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemony-Stuffed Fish Fillets contains roughly 48 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A.
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, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag under cold water for quicker thawing. Ensure they are patted dry before adding the stuffing.
What type of fish is best for stuffing?
Firm white fish like haddock, cod, or tilapia works best for stuffing as they hold their shape well during cooking. These fish also have a mild flavor that complements the lemon and herb stuffing. Avoid delicate fish like sole, as they may fall apart.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before assembling the dish. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve the Lemony-Stuffed Fish Fillets.
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).