Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Crispy Baked Fish (20 min) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 47 reviews

This Crispy Baked Fish recipe delivers perfectly golden, crunchy-coated white fish with a zesty and flavorful breadcrumb crust. Using a simple mayonnaise and Dijon mustard mixture for moisture, the fish is coated in toasted panko crumbs seasoned with Cajun spices and lemon zest, then baked to flaky perfection in just 20 minutes. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish served with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fish

  • 1 pound (450g) white fish, skinned, cut into even(ish) pieces
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Panko Breadcrumb Coating

  • 1 cup (119g) Panko breadcrumbs (or finely crushed Ritz crackers/cornflakes)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (use 1 1/2 tbsp for extra buttery crumbs)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or Old Bay seasoning)
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Mayonnaise Coating

  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (light is fine)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon thyme

Garnish and Dipping Sauce

  • Lemon wedges
  • Dipping sauce options (e.g., tartar sauce, aioli, cocktail sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Rack: Heat oven to 425°F (217°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, place a grill or rack on top, and spray the rack with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  2. Toast Breadcrumbs: In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter and add panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and Cajun seasoning. Toast for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the crumbs are golden brown but not burnt. Alternatively, you can spread the crumbs on a baking pan and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through until toasted.
  3. Prepare Mayonnaise Coating: In a shallow dish, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and thyme. Stir well to create the coating mixture.
  4. Coat Fish with Mayo and Breadcrumbs: Brush both sides of each fish piece with the mayo mixture. Lightly season one side with salt and pepper, unless using a salty Cajun seasoning. Dip the coated side into the toasted panko crumbs, gently pressing to help the crumbs adhere. Arrange the coated fish pieces in a single layer on the rack atop the baking sheet. Sprinkle any remaining crumbs on top.
  5. Bake the Fish: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and bake the fish for 7-10 minutes depending on thickness—approximately 10 minutes for 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick pieces and 7-8 minutes for thinner pieces. The fish should reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C), flake easily, and remain slightly translucent.
  6. Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your preferred dipping sauce for a tasty, crispy meal.

Notes

  • Note 1: Use firm white fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia for best results.
  • Note 2: Cajun seasoning can be substituted with Old Bay or any preferred spice blend to adjust flavor.
  • Note 3: Suggested dipping sauces include tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or cocktail sauce according to taste preference.
  • Ensure fish pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  • Using a rack for baking helps keep the crust crisp by allowing heat circulation around the fish.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/crispy-baked-fish-20-min-recipe/