Haddock Recipes Baked – Easy, Healthy & Delicious Oven-Baked Haddock Ideas

Introduction

Haddock has long been a favorite among seafood lovers who appreciate its mild flavor and flaky texture. Many home cooks often look for a reliable way to prepare this fish that enhances its natural taste without masking it. Baking haddock achieves exactly that. It keeps the fish moist, brings out its sweetness, and allows flavors to mingle beautifully.

Unlike deep-fried or heavily seasoned methods, baked haddock highlights simplicity and balance. The process is straightforward, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Whether you are a seasoned cook or someone just beginning to explore seafood dishes, baked haddock offers a combination of taste, nutrition, and ease that is hard to match.

The beauty of baking haddock lies in how adaptable it is. You can keep it light and lemony for a fresh, coastal-inspired dinner, or add a crisp breadcrumb topping for a comforting, oven-baked delight. The fish cooks quickly, absorbs seasoning effortlessly, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A well-baked piece of haddock can rival even the most luxurious seafood entrees.

In this article, you will discover everything needed to make the perfect baked haddock at home. From ingredients and preparation to serving ideas and nutrition, each detail has been designed to help you master this classic recipe with confidence.

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Ingredients Needed

Creating a flavorful baked haddock starts with choosing fresh, high-quality fish. Opt for firm, white fillets with a clean ocean scent. Frozen fillets can also work well if they are thawed properly and patted dry before cooking. The following ingredients make a simple yet delicious version of baked haddock that anyone can prepare.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories
Fresh haddock fillets	4 pieces (about 6 oz each)	480
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	240
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons	8
Garlic cloves (minced)	2	8
Breadcrumbs	½ cup	200
Grated Parmesan cheese	¼ cup	110
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons	5
Paprika	1 teaspoon	6
Salt	½ teaspoon	0
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	2
Butter (melted)	2 tablespoons	200
Lemon wedges (for serving)	Optional	10

Total Calories (approximate per serving): 330 to 360

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the oven and baking dish
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish lightly with olive oil or butter. This prevents sticking and helps create a subtle golden crust underneath the fish.For more delicious ideas, don’t miss Red Snapper Fillet Recipes_ which pairs perfectly with this recipe.
2. Season the haddock fillets
   Pat the haddock fillets dry with a paper towel. Moisture can prevent the fish from baking evenly. Arrange the fillets in the prepared dish in a single layer. Drizzle them with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly over each piece.
3. Make the flavorful topping
   In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, melted butter, and chopped parsley. Mix until the texture resembles damp sand. The buttery mixture will create a crisp and savory crust as it bakes.
4. Coat the fish
   Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the haddock fillets, pressing gently so it adheres to the surface. The goal is to create an even layer that seals in the natural juices while providing texture and flavor.
5. Bake to perfection
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque in the center. If you prefer an extra-crispy topping, switch the oven to broil mode for the last two minutes of baking.
6. Add finishing touches
   Remove the dish from the oven and allow the fish to rest for about two minutes. Garnish with a few sprigs of parsley and fresh lemon wedges before serving. The bright citrus adds a refreshing balance to the buttery topping.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

One of the best things about baked haddock is its versatility. You can modify the ingredients to match your personal preferences or dietary needs.

• For a lighter version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed whole grain crackers or a sprinkle of almond flour. Use olive oil instead of butter to cut down on saturated fat.
• For extra flavor: Add a thin layer of Dijon mustard on top of the fish before applying the breadcrumb mixture. This enhances the tanginess and helps the topping stick.
• For a Mediterranean twist: Mix sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, and a touch of oregano into the topping. It will bring a burst of color and bold taste.
• For spice lovers: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
• For dairy-free diets: Skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast for a similar nutty flavor.

Experimenting with flavors keeps the dish exciting and allows you to personalize it for different occasions.

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Nutritional Information

Baked haddock is an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals. It provides a satisfying meal that supports both heart health and weight management. Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	36g
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fiber	1g
Sugars	0g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	420mg
Vitamin D	30% Daily Value
Vitamin B12	70% Daily Value
Selenium	45% Daily Value

The combination of lean protein and healthy fats makes baked haddock ideal for anyone seeking a balanced and nourishing meal.

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Serving Suggestions

Baked haddock pairs wonderfully with a range of sides. You can keep the meal light and fresh or turn it into a hearty family dinner.

• Classic option: Serve with roasted potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting, traditional plate.
• Healthy choice: Try a side of quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Elegant presentation: Plate the fish over creamy mashed cauliflower with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of microgreens.
• Coastal style: Pair with coleslaw, tartar sauce, and a warm dinner roll for a seaside-inspired meal.

Wine lovers can complement baked haddock with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity balances the richness of the butter and enhances the delicate flavor of the fish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake frozen haddock directly without thawing?
It is better to thaw the haddock first to ensure even cooking. Baking frozen fish may result in uneven texture and excess moisture.

2. How can I tell if haddock is fully cooked?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque all the way through. Overcooking can make it dry, so check after 15 minutes.

3. Can I use the same recipe for cod or tilapia?
Yes, this baked haddock recipe works well with other white fish such as cod, pollock, or tilapia. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

4. How long can leftovers be stored?
Cooked haddock can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture.

5. What is the best sauce to serve with baked haddock?
A simple lemon butter sauce or light garlic cream sauce complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering the dish.

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Conclusion

Baked haddock offers everything a great meal should deliver: flavor, simplicity, and nutrition. Each bite carries a subtle sweetness and tender texture that only fresh fish can provide. When seasoned thoughtfully and baked to perfection, it becomes a wholesome dish that can fit into any dining occasion.