This recipe is simple, healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Baking ensures the halibut stays moist and tender without much effort. It uses minimal ingredients while delivering fresh, clean flavors. The dish is versatile, pairing beautifully with vegetables, grains, or salads, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 halibut fillets (about 6 ounces each) 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Lemon slices for garnish
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil (or melted butter), lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Spoon or brush the mixture evenly over the fillets.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon slices on the side.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 12–15 minutes Total time: Approximately 25 minutes
Variations
Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese before baking. Top with sliced cherry tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired version. Drizzle with a honey mustard glaze for a sweet and tangy twist. Add fresh dill or thyme for a different herb flavor. Bake with asparagus or green beans in the same dish for an easy one-pan meal.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover baked halibut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture.
FAQs
How do I know when halibut is done baking?
The fish should turn opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.
What internal temperature should halibut reach?
An internal temperature of about 130–135°F (54–57°C) is ideal for moist halibut.
Can I use frozen halibut?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.
Why is my halibut dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause. Keep an eye on cooking time and check for doneness early.
Can I bake halibut in foil?
Yes, wrapping it loosely in foil can help lock in moisture.
What sides go well with baked halibut?
It pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter.
Is halibut a healthy fish?
Yes, halibut is high in protein and relatively low in fat, making it a nutritious choice.
Can I add a sauce?
Absolutely. Lemon butter sauce, garlic herb sauce, or a light cream sauce work beautifully.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and ensure the fillets are arranged in a single layer.
Conclusion
Baked Halibut is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the best in this firm, flaky fish. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a reliable recipe for both everyday meals and special occasions. Light, flavorful, and versatile, it’s a seafood classic worth keeping on repeat.
Baked Halibut is a light and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender, flaky fish seasoned simply and baked to perfection, highlighting its natural richness with minimal effort.
Ingredients
4 halibut fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil (or melted butter), lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Spoon or brush the mixture evenly over the fillets.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon slices on the side.
Notes
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for a crunchy topping.Add sliced cherry tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean twist.Drizzle with honey mustard glaze for a sweet and tangy variation.Use fresh dill or thyme for a different herb profile.Bake with asparagus or green beans for an easy one-pan meal.Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
