This delicious recipe for baked flounder fillets with a golden breadcrumb crust and a tangy lemon butter sauce is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. With its crispy topping, tender fish, and buttery citrus sauce, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. It’s both hearty and refreshing, making it ideal for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the preparation process, ingredients, and key tips for perfecting this intermediate-level dish.
Preparation Overview
- Preparation Time: 50 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
While the preparation time is just under an hour, it involves simple steps that are manageable with the right tools and attention to detail. This recipe yields a balanced and flavorful dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing.
Ingredients Breakdown
To achieve the perfect taste and texture, the following ingredients are required:
- Flounder Fillets (3 kg): The star of the dish. Flounder, a delicate and mild white fish, is ideal for baking. Its flaky texture pairs perfectly with the buttery breadcrumb topping.
- Breadcrumbs (150g): Adds crunch and texture to the fish.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (100g): Infuses the crust with a rich, savory flavor.
- Dried Parsley (2 tablespoons): Provides an herbaceous and slightly earthy undertone.
- Dried Basil (2 tablespoons): Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Garlic Powder (1 tablespoon): Introduces a subtle garlicky warmth.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Unsalted Butter (200g): Forms the base of the lemon butter sauce, contributing richness and creaminess.
- Lemon Juice (4 tablespoons) and Zest (1 lemon): Adds a bright, tangy freshness that cuts through the richness of the fish and butter.
Kitchen Tools
To prepare this recipe efficiently, ensure you have the following tools:
- Baking Sheet: Used to bake the fish fillets evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the breadcrumb mixture.
- Whisk: Helps emulsify the lemon butter sauce.
- Measuring Cups: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Paring Knife: Handy for zesting the lemon and trimming the fish if needed.
- Spoon: For spreading and pressing the breadcrumb mixture onto the fish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating the oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures the oven reaches the ideal temperature for baking the fish, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly cooked fillets.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed. This mixture will form the flavorful crust on the fish.
3. Prepare the Fish Fillets
Lay the flounder fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Gently press the breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each fillet, ensuring an even layer. Press lightly to adhere the mixture to the fish without damaging the fillets.
4. Bake the Fish
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. You’ll know the fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, and the crust is golden brown.
5. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
While the fish is baking, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once fully melted, whisk in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Remove from heat and set aside. This sauce will add a tangy, buttery richness to the dish.
6. Serve
Once the flounder fillets are done baking, serve them hot. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over each fillet to enhance the flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Total Calories: 1300 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Proteins: 220g
- Fats: 80g
This recipe offers a balanced macronutrient profile, making it a nutritious option for those seeking a high-protein, moderate-fat meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While dried herbs are used in the recipe, incorporating fresh parsley or basil as a garnish can elevate the dish’s flavor and presentation.
- Don’t Overcook the Fish: Flounder is a delicate fish that can dry out quickly if overbaked. Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the fillets remain tender and moist.
- Customize the Crust: For added crunch, mix crushed nuts (like almonds or walnuts) into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
- Pair with Sides: Serve the flounder with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the meal.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The combination of textures and flavors is what makes this dish exceptional. The crunchy, cheesy crust complements the tender, flaky flounder, while the lemon butter sauce adds a bright and zesty finish. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between richness and freshness, making it both indulgent and light.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this baked flounder recipe is sure to impress. Its intermediate difficulty level makes it approachable for home cooks who want to try something new and slightly challenging. With a little attention to detail and a focus on fresh ingredients, this dish can become a go-to recipe in your kitchen repertoire.
