If you’ve dismissed haddock as a bland, uninspiring fish, you’re in for a delightful surprise.
This lean, flaky white fish serves as the perfect canvas for an array of flavors, from zesty Mediterranean herbs to spicy Cajun seasonings.
You’ll find that its mild taste absorbs marinades beautifully while maintaining its delicate texture when baked properly.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, these eight recipes will transform ordinary haddock into something truly extraordinary.
Classic Lemon Herb Baked Haddock With Buttery Crumb Topping
This delightful baked haddock dish combines the delicate flavor of fresh fish with bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and a crispy, buttery topping.
The light, flaky texture of haddock makes it perfect for baking, while the herb-infused breadcrumb crust adds a satisfying crunch that complements the tender fish beneath.
Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds fresh haddock fillets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Rinse the haddock fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, and dried oregano. Brush this mixture over the fish.
Step 4: In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, remaining olive oil, fresh parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the fish fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Mediterranean Baked Haddock With Olives and Tomatoes
This Mediterranean-inspired baked haddock brings together the bright flavors of the Mediterranean coast with flaky white fish. Juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs create a flavorful base that infuses the delicate haddock with depth while keeping it moist and tender.
This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining.
Ingredients:
- 4 haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus additional wedges for serving)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the fish in a single layer.
Step 2: Pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, half of the parsley, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Spoon the tomato and olive mixture over and around the fish fillets. Arrange lemon slices on top of the fish.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley before serving.
Step 7: Serve hot with the tomato-olive sauce spooned over the fish and extra lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 285 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Spicy Cajun Baked Haddock With Crispy Cornmeal Crust
This spicy Cajun baked haddock delivers a perfect balance of heat and flavor with its crispy cornmeal coating. The delicate fish remains tender inside while the outside develops a satisfying crunch.
Easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds fresh haddock fillets
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (without alcohol ingredients)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly brush the paper with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Step 2: Pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix well to guarantee all spices are evenly distributed.
Step 4: In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.
Step 5: Dip each fillet into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat with the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 6: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fish.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
Step 8: Carefully transfer the fish to serving plates, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Serving size: approximately 6 oz of fish
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Haddock With Fresh Herbs
This delightful baked haddock recipe combines the mild, flaky texture of haddock with a crispy, flavorful crust of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic fresh herbs.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete, nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard together. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 5: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet, creating an even crust layer.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Calcium: 18% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Honey Mustard Glazed Haddock With Toasted Almonds
This delightful honey mustard glazed haddock combines the delicate flavor of fresh haddock fillets with a sweet and tangy glaze, topped with crunchy toasted almonds for texture.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables and rice.
Ingredients:
- 4 haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅓ cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over each fillet.
Step 4: In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 5: Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the glazed haddock fillets.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 290 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Coconut Curry Baked Haddock With Lime and Cilantro
This delightful baked haddock dish combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and curry with the bright accents of lime and fresh cilantro. The mild, flaky haddock absorbs these aromatic flavors perfectly, creating a balanced, satisfying meal that’s both healthy and impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds haddock fillets
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional for extra heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil a baking dish.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, curry powder, ginger, garlic, lime juice, half the lime zest, and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Place the haddock fillets in the prepared baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Scatter the sliced bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño (if using) around and slightly under the fish.
Step 5: Pour the coconut curry mixture over the fish and vegetables, ensuring the fillets are well coated.
Step 6: Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining lime zest and fresh cilantro.
Step 8: Serve immediately with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 45% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
Herb-Stuffed Haddock Fillets With Creamy Yogurt Sauce
These elegant herb-stuffed haddock fillets make a wonderfully light yet satisfying main course. The delicate fish is enhanced with a fragrant herb filling and paired with a cool, creamy yogurt sauce that perfectly balances the flavors. This dish looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 4 haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup fresh herbs (combination of parsley, dill, and chives), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 cucumber, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of the fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon olive oil, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper and mix well.
Step 3: Lay the haddock fillets flat and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place a generous portion of the herb mixture on each fillet and carefully roll them up, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
Step 4: Place the stuffed fillets in the prepared baking dish, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: While the fish is baking, prepare the yogurt sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, remaining fresh herbs, mint, cucumber, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Once the haddock is done, remove the toothpicks (if used) and serve immediately with a generous spoonful of the yogurt sauce on top or on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 14g (mostly healthy fats)
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Middle Eastern Spiced Haddock With Roasted Vegetables
This fragrant Middle Eastern-inspired haddock dish combines tender fish fillets with a warm spice blend of cumin, coriander, and sumac. The roasted vegetables create a colorful bed for the fish, while lemon adds brightness and fresh herbs bring the entire dish together for a healthy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 1 large zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon sumac
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 lemon, half juiced and half cut into wedges
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, mix together cumin, coriander, sumac, turmeric, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper to create your spice blend.
Step 2: Place the chopped vegetables on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with half of the spice mixture, and toss to coat evenly. Spread in a single layer and roast for 15 minutes.
Step 3: While vegetables are roasting, pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels. Brush with remaining olive oil and sprinkle the remaining spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
Step 4: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, stir the vegetables, and create spaces for the fish fillets. Place the seasoned haddock on the sheet among the vegetables.
Step 5: Sprinkle minced garlic over the fish and vegetables, then drizzle with lemon juice. Return to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Remove from oven and immediately scatter the fresh herbs over the fish and vegetables. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 265
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Final Thoughts
You’ve now discovered eight exceptional ways to transform humble haddock into restaurant-worthy creations.
With these recipes in your culinary arsenal, you’ll impress even the most discerning palates.
Did you know that haddock’s omega-3 content can be up to 1,300mg per serving?
That’s ocean-sourced nutrition wrapped in a blanket of aromatic herbs, zesty citrus, or warming spices.
Whether you’re craving Mediterranean brightness or Eastern depth, these foolproof methods deliver the perfect balance of flaky texture and bold flavor.
