This is the only baked halibut recipe you will ever need. It’s a simple, elegant, and foolproof method that delivers perfectly flaky, moist, and flavorful fish in under 20 minutes. Forget dry, tough fish forever! We’re using a simple combination of lemon, garlic, and butter to enhance the halibut’s naturally mild and sweet flavor, making it a perfect healthy weeknight dinner or a dish worthy of special occasions.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to cooking seafood, this recipe is designed for success. We’ll walk through the simple steps and share the essential tips to ensure your oven-baked halibut comes out juicy and tender every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Halibut Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This entire dish comes together in less than 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy & Delicious: Halibut is a lean source of protein and omega-3s. This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a meal that’s both nutritious and incredibly tasty.
- Foolproof Method: The number one fear when cooking fish is drying it out. Our method, combined with our pro tips, guarantees moist and flaky results.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to create this restaurant-quality dish.
The 5 Key Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. We’re letting the high-quality fish shine, complemented by classic flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Halibut Fillets: Look for fresh or frozen-thawed halibut fillets that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness is key to a juicy final product. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and is essential for keeping the fish moist. You can substitute with a good quality olive oil.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Avoid the jarred kind if you can.
- Lemon: We use both the zest and the juice for a bright, fresh citrus flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end. Dill is also a wonderful substitute.
- Salt & Pepper: To season the fish and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make The Best Baked Halibut Recipe
Making delicious oven-baked halibut is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result.
1. Preparation
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the halibut fillets completely dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial! A dry surface allows the fish to brown slightly and helps the seasoning adhere properly. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in a baking dish lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This simple sauce is the secret to flavor and moisture.
3. Season and Bake
Brush the lemon garlic butter sauce generously over all sides of the halibut fillets. Season them well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Moist & Flaky Halibut
- Don’t Overcook: This is the most important rule. Halibut is a lean fish and will dry out quickly if overcooked. The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) and flakes easily with a fork. It will continue to cook slightly from residual heat after you remove it from the oven.
- Thickness Matters: The “10-minute rule” is a great guideline for cooking fish: bake for 10 minutes per inch of thickness. For this recipe at 400°F, we find a slightly faster cook time works best.
- Use Enough Fat: The butter or olive oil is not just for flavor; it creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture. Be generous!
Halibut Baking Time Chart (at 400°F / 200°C)
Use this table as a starting guide. Always check for doneness by flaking with a fork or using a thermometer.
| Fillet Thickness | Estimated Baking Time |
|---|---|
| ¾ inch | 8-10 minutes |
| 1 inch | 10-12 minutes |
| 1.5 inches | 14-16 minutes |
Recipe Variations to Try
This simple baked halibut recipe is a fantastic base. Feel free to customize it with these delicious variations:
- Crispy Topping: For a delightful crunch, try this Amazing Parmesan Crusted Halibut Recipe. Mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley with the melted butter mixture and press it onto the top of the fillets before baking.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Top the halibut with cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese before baking for an Easy One-Pan Mediterranean Halibut Recipe.
- Spicy & Smoky: If you love a bit of heat, our Spicy and Flavorful Blackened Halibut Recipe (coming soon) is a must-try. Use a good quality blackened seasoning instead of just salt and pepper.
What to Serve with Baked Halibut
Baked halibut pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Vegetables: Roasted Asparagus, Sautéed Green Beans, or a simple garden salad.
- Starches: Lemon Herb Quinoa, Roasted Potatoes, or a creamy Parmesan Risotto.
- Sauces: A simple dill yogurt sauce or a fresh mango salsa can add another layer of flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftover halibut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a 275°F (135°C) oven with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, until just warmed through.
The Best Baked Halibut Recipe
Baked Halibut Recipe (Perfectly Flaky & Moist Every Time)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Thoroughly pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and the juice of half the lemon.
- Brush the lemon garlic butter sauce all over the halibut fillets. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with the remaining lemon cut into wedges.
Notes
Frozen Halibut: Ensure halibut is completely thawed before baking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Substitutions: Fresh dill can be used in place of parsley. Olive oil can be substituted for butter for a dairy-free option.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Baked Halibut Recipe
For the best texture, we highly recommend thawing halibut completely before baking. Baking from frozen can result in uneven cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
There are three keys to moist halibut: 1) Do not overcook it. 2) Pat the fish completely dry before seasoning. 3) Use enough fat, like the lemon garlic butter in this recipe, to create a protective barrier that locks in moisture.
Halibut is done when it flakes easily with a fork and its flesh has turned from translucent to opaque. For perfect results, use an instant-read thermometer—the internal temperature should be between 130-135°F (54-57°C) in the thickest part.
Halibut has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with simple seasonings. Lemon, garlic, butter, salt, and pepper are classic choices. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme are also excellent additions.
The best temperature for baking halibut is 400°F (200°C). This high heat cooks the fish quickly, which helps to keep it moist and tender without drying it out.
More Delicious Fish Recipes To Try
We hope you love this simple and delicious baked halibut recipe as much as we do! If you’re looking for an even simpler version, check out This Simple Easy Baked Halibut Recipe (coming soon). It’s another fantastic weeknight option.
If you make this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. We love hearing from you! And don’t forget to save it to your favorite board on Pinterest!
