Baked Haddock with Brown Butter

Name: Baked Haddock with Brown Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 12-16 oz of haddock fillets (or any white fish of choice); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Olive oil for drizzling; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Paprika to taste; Dried parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 5, 2025

Updated:

March 5, 2025

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Fresh haddock is a delightful catch that can transform a simple meal into something special. It’s tender and flaky, perfect for absorbing the rich flavors we love. Today, we’re bringing you a recipe that beautifully showcases haddock, making it the star of the show. Start with some fresh haddock, and let’s talk about how to elevate this dish with just a few ingredients. Trust me, you’ll impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a fun culinary adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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Why This Recipe Works

Fresh haddock is a tender, flaky fish that absorbs flavors beautifully. The combination of brown butter and simple seasonings enhances its naturally mild taste, making it an elegant dish that’s deceptively easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Start With Some Fresh Haddock

This recipe for Baked Haddock with Brown Butter is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter elevates the dish, while the quick preparation ensures it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

12-16 oz of haddock fillets (or any white fish of choice)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Paprika to taste
Dried parsley for garnish

Preparing Your Baked Haddock

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to get the temperature right for achieving flaky fish that doesn’t dry out.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Next, grab a cookie sheet and line it with aluminum foil. This will make cleanup a breeze! Lightly grease it by spritzing or drizzling a bit of olive oil over the surface.

Arrange the Haddock

Now, lay the haddock fillets skin-side down on your prepared cookie sheet. Make sure they’re spread out evenly for even cooking.

Seasoning the Fish

Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the fillets. Then, sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley to taste. This little bit of seasoning goes a long way!

Bake the Haddock

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how thick your fillets are. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Make the Brown Butter

While the fish is baking, let’s make the brown butter. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium to medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it, and whisk or swirl the butter continuously to prevent burning.

Achieve the Perfect Brown Butter

As the butter melts, it will start to foam. Keep whisking until you see tiny brown specks forming at the bottom of the pan. Remove it from the heat and continue to whisk for a few more seconds. This is where the magic happens!

Serve Immediately

After letting the brown butter rest for a minute, use a metal spoon to drizzle it over the baked haddock just before serving. There’s nothing like enjoying your meal fresh from the oven!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked haddock with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a wholesome meal.
Serve with quinoa or couscous to soak up that delicious brown butter.

Tips for Success

Ensure your fish is fresh for the best flavor.
Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Keep a close eye on the brown butter; it can burn quickly.

Variations

For a citrusy twist, try adding lemon zest or capers to the brown butter.
Experiment with different fish like cod or tilapia to suit your taste!

Storage Tips

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
When reheating, do so gently in the oven to keep the fish’s texture intact.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc alongside your meal for a delightful pairing.
Serve with crusty bread to mop up any remaining brown butter sauce, and you’ll be in heaven.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen haddock for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before baking.

2. What can I substitute for brown butter?
While brown butter adds a unique flavor, you can use regular melted butter if needed.

3. How do I know when the haddock is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork.

4. Can I cook this recipe on a grill?
Absolutely! Just make sure to well-oil the fish to prevent it from sticking.

5. What sides go best with baked haddock?
Light sides like a garden salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pair wonderfully.

Baked haddock with brown butter is not just a meal—it’s an invitation to enjoy something unique and delicious. With this easy preparation, fresh fish can truly shine, while the rich brown butter adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Suitable for seasoned chefs and novices alike, this recipe shows how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dining experience. So invite your loved ones to the table, and savor the moments spent together around good food and good company!

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