Stuffed Flounder
Stuffed Flounder offers a delicate combination of tender fish fillets filled with a flavorful crab and vegetable stuffing. The dish features rich, savory, and slightly buttery flavors, finished with a touch of lemon and paprika. Perfect for special occasions or elegant family dinners, appealing to seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer green pepper, onion, celery, and garlic in butter; let cool slightly.
- Mix the cooled vegetables with bread crumbs, beaten eggs, pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Add lump crabmeat to the mixture and combine well.
- Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of stuffing in the center of each flounder fillet.
- Put a pat of butter on top of the stuffing and sprinkle with lemon juice.
- Lap the ends of each fillet over the stuffing and secure with toothpicks.
- Sprinkle the stuffed fillets with paprika.
- Place the fillets in a greased baking dish and bake at 325°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs or substituting half of the butter with olive oil. You can also use shrimp or scallops instead of crabmeat if desired. If you want more flavor, add some lemon zest to the stuffing mixture. Ensure the filling is well-seasoned; taste before stuffing the flounder. This recipe pairs beautifully with American recipes that include fresh vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed flounder with a side of steamed asparagus or a light salad for a balanced meal. A drizzle of lemon butter sauce can enhance the dish's flavor, or you may pair it with a refreshing white wine. This dish also goes well with rice pilaf or roasted potatoes, creating a delightful seafood experience for your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed flounder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery. You can also serve leftovers cold as part of a seafood salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Flounder contains roughly 216 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature before stuffing the flounder fillets. This helps maintain the dish's texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for flounder?
If flounder is unavailable, you can use other mild white fish such as sole, tilapia, or cod. Each of these options will work well with the stuffing and maintain a similar cooking time. Adjust the baking time slightly if the fillets are thicker or thinner.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed flounder before baking. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to enjoy seafood recipes on busy nights.
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).