If you’re craving a seafood dish that balances flaky tenderness with a satisfyingly crunchy topping, this Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful harmony of mild, buttery halibut enveloped in a golden, herb-seasoned panko crust that bakes up perfectly in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises simplicity without sacrificing flavor, texture, or that irresistible crispy crust that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe is all about simple ingredients that come together to deliver big flavor. Each element plays a crucial role—from the flaky halibut providing a subtle ocean freshness, to the crunchy panko and vibrant herbs adding layers of texture and aroma that make the dish pop.
- Halibut fillet (1 pound): Choose a fresh, thick fillet for the best flaky texture that holds up under baking.
- Melted butter (1 1/2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the crust achieve that golden color and crispy finish.
- Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the halibut’s natural flavors with a clean, mild seasoning.
- Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle warmth that complements the buttery fish.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): The secret to that irresistible crunch that sets this recipe apart.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (3 tablespoons): Brings a nutty, savory depth while helping the crust bind beautifully.
- Fresh thyme, chopped (1 teaspoon): Infuses the crust with an earthy herbal note that brightens each bite.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle savoriness without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers mild garlicky warmth that pairs perfectly with the fish and cheese.
How to Make Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is just right for baking the halibut, ensuring the fish cooks evenly while the panko topping crisps up beautifully without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Halibut
Pat the halibut fillet dry with paper towels—this step is essential for getting that crispy crust to stick well. Place the fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Then, brush the fish generously with the melted butter, seasoning it with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavor.
Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder until fully combined. This mixture delivers a perfect balance of crunch, cheesy umami, and fragrant herbs to top the halibut.
Step 4: Apply the Crust
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the buttered halibut fillet. Press down lightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon to ensure the topping adheres firmly to the fish for maximum crispiness during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the halibut for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This brief, high-heat baking keeps the fish moist beneath the crunchy crust, creating the perfect texture contrast that this Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe is loved for.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are a classic garnish, adding a bright citrus zing that cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese crust. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or additional thyme over the top for a fresh herbal finish and a pop of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe pairs beautifully with light and vibrant sides. Consider serving it alongside steamed asparagus, garlic-roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Each side brings its own fresh flavor and texture to balance the indulgent crunch of the fish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elevated presentation, plate the halibut on a drizzle of lemon butter sauce or a vibrant pea puree. Stack slices of roasted vegetables alongside or serve atop a bed of herbed quinoa to turn this simple recipe into a restaurant-quality experience at your own table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 1 to 2 days for the best texture and flavor; the crust remains tasty but might lose some of its crispiness over time.
Freezing
Freezing cooked halibut isn’t ideal because the texture can become watery after thawing, but if necessary, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and foil to minimize freezer burn. Thaw gently overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back some of the original crust crunch, reheat leftovers in an oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes rather than using a microwave, which tends to soften the crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?
Yes! While halibut is preferred for its firm texture and mild flavor, you can try this method with cod, haddock, or even salmon for a similar crispy crust and moist interior.
Is panko necessary for the crust?
Panko breadcrumbs are ideal because they create a lighter, crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the topping won’t be quite as crisp.
Can I prepare the breadcrumb mixture in advance?
Absolutely. You can mix the panko, Parmesan, thyme, and seasonings a day ahead and store it in an airtight container to save time on baking day.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
Look for the fish to be opaque and to flake easily with a fork. For precision, use an instant-read thermometer—145 degrees Fahrenheit is the safe internal temperature.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the panko for a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative. Many stores carry gluten-free panko-style crumbs that work just as well for the crispy topping.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen for its ease, flavor, and satisfying textures. I love how it takes just a handful of simple ingredients and turns them into a dish that feels special but comes together effortlessly. Give it a try for your next dinner—you might just find your new go-to fish recipe that dazzles every time!
Print
Crispy Baked Halibut Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Baked Halibut recipe features tender halibut fillets coated with a flavorful, crunchy panko breadcrumb and Parmesan topping, baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that combines fresh herbs and aromatic spices, ideal for a healthy and delicious seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Halibut
- 1 pound Halibut fillet
Topping
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the halibut evenly and achieving a crisp topping.
- Prepare the fish: Pat the halibut fillet dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place the fillet on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the fish evenly with the melted butter, then sprinkle with kosher salt and ground black pepper to season.
- Make the topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend all the flavors.
- Apply the topping: Evenly sprinkle the panko breadcrumb mixture over the buttered halibut fillet. Press down gently to ensure the topping adheres well to the fish surface for a crunchy crust once baked.
- Bake the halibut: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fish for 12 to 15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reads 145 degrees Fahrenheit using an instant-read thermometer, guaranteeing the fish is cooked safely and remains moist.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate doneness check to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh thyme enhances the flavor but dried thyme can be substituted if unavailable.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges to brighten the dish.
