Oh, I can hardly contain my excitement about sharing this Crispy Baked Haddock recipe with you! There’s something so comforting and satisfying about sinking your teeth into flaky fish with a crunchy topping. I remember the first time I made this dish—my mom was visiting, and I wanted to impress her with my cooking skills. We sat down, and with the very first bite, her eyes lit up. The crispy texture and delicate flavor of the haddock had us both swooning!
What I love the most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels like a fancy restaurant dish. You’ll feel like a culinary genius! Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to frying, and trust me, your taste buds won’t be able to tell the difference. I can’t wait for you to try it!
What’s in Crispy Baked Haddock?
Now let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish a favorite in my kitchen:
Haddock Fillets: Fresh or frozen, haddock fillets are the star of this dish. They are mild in flavor and have a lovely flaky texture when cooked. If you can get your hands on fresh haddock, do it! It brings out the best flavor.
Breadcrumbs: For that perfect crispy topping! I prefer using panko breadcrumbs because they are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs. They give an irresistible texture that I just adore.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that elevates this dish. Make sure it’s freshly grated for the best results.
Butter: Just a bit of melted butter helps in achieving that golden brown crust. If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil works just as well!
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and enhances the flavor of the fish. I always say, when it comes to fish, lemon is your best friend!
Seasoning: A little garlic powder, salt, and pepper round out the flavors perfectly. Don’t be shy—season generously!
Is Crispy Baked Haddock Good for You?
Absolutely! This Crispy Baked Haddock is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Haddock is an excellent source of lean protein and is low in calories, which makes it a great option for those watching their dietary intake. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids—wonderful for heart health!
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the amount of salt you add, and opt for low-sodium breadcrumbs if possible. Overall, this recipe is a smart choice for a healthy meal, especially when paired with a side of veggies or a fresh salad.
Ingredients List
– 4 haddock fillets (about 4-6 ounces each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted (or olive oil)
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people.
How to Make Crispy Baked Haddock?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your delicious topping!
3. In another bowl, combine the melted butter and lemon juice.
4. Dip each haddock fillet into the butter mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure it’s well covered!
5. Arrange the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve hot with a wedge of lemon on the side—you won’t regret it!
Creative Ways to Serve Your Haddock
If you want to jazz things up a bit, consider serving your crispy haddock with a tangy tartar sauce or a spicy remoulade. It’s also fantastic alongside steamed vegetables, a light salad, or even some roasted potatoes. You can even flake the leftover fish and throw it into a taco for a fun twist the next day!
I’m so thrilled for you to try this Crispy Baked Haddock recipe! It was a hit at my family table, and I hope it finds its way to yours as well. Don’t forget to share your experience or any fun variations you try! Happy cooking!