New England Baked Haddock
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
341 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
New England Baked Haddock
Description
New England Baked Haddock focuses on haddock fillets coated with a rich, melted butter and breadcrumb topping. The fish is salted and peppered generously, then covered with a butter-infused crumb topping before baking at 350 degrees until the flesh flakes easily. The topping does not form a firm crust but lends moistness and gentle crunch. Lemon wedges and fresh parsley are suggested for serving to add brightness and freshness to the mild white fish.
The technique involves spreading butter on the baking dish bottom to prevent sticking and combining breadcrumbs with butter to create a textured topping laid evenly over the fish. The fish cooks through in approximately 15 minutes, depending on thickness, yielding a tender interior with a golden breadcrumb surface. Using pudding-like crushed crackers as a substitute topping and adjusting butter quantities is also an option detailed in the notes.
This simple recipe pairs well with vegetables, steamed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It is a classic method highlighting fresh fish without overpowering flavors, suited for those who prefer straightforward preparation and subtle tastes. Adjusting the seasoning or adding herbs and Parmesan can customize the dish to personal preference.
Variations in cooking time depend on fish thickness and oven performance. Using unsalted butter requires extra salt in the crumb mixture to balance flavor. The recipe includes a traditional option of crushed crackers in place of breadcrumbs, which requires less butter. Measuring seasoning for a balanced flavor and monitoring for doneness ensure the fish remains moist and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1-1.5 lbs. haddock patted dry (or cod)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs or seasoned, see note
- 6 tablespoons butter melted (see notes, salted
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- lemon for serving (optional, wedges; fresh
- parsley for serving (optional, wedges; fresh
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Put a spoonful of the melted butter in a baking sheet or dish and spread to coat the bottom.
- Combine the bread crumbs (1 cup) with the rest of the 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Salt and pepper both sides of the fish liberally (I used about 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper), and lay in the buttered baking dish.
- Spread bread crumbs - all of them - evenly over the top of the fish. I use my hands to sprinkle it on (it won't really stick like traditional breading - it's more like a topping).
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until fish is cooked thoroughly (and flakes easily).
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and a garnish of fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix herbs like parsley, dill, or chives into the breadcrumbs before baking.
- Grated Parmesan can be incorporated into the breadcrumb topping for richness.
- If using unsalted butter, add about 1/4 teaspoon salt to the crumbs for balanced seasoning.
- Adjust baking time based on fish thickness; thicker fillets may need extra minutes.
- Crushed Ritz crackers can substitute the breadcrumbs, reducing butter to 3 tablespoons.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 341 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 341kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 19g | 6% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Cholesterol | 106mg | 35% |
| Sodium | 589mg | 25% |
| Potassium | 377mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 590IU | 12% |
| Calcium | 67mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1.5mg | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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