If you’re searching for the ultimate, crowd-pleasing seafood dinner that’s simple to make yet truly feels like a special occasion, this Heavenly Halibut recipe is about to become your new obsession. Each tender halibut fillet is smothered in a creamy, zesty mayonnaise-Parmesan topping that bakes up impossibly golden and flavorful. The aroma alone will make your mouth water, and one bite delivers a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth fish that fully lives up to its name. Whether you’re impressing guests or craving a weeknight treat, Heavenly Halibut is always a winning pick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish so irresistible is how just a handful of kitchen staples come together to work a little magic. Each ingredient plays an important part, building a balanced medley of creaminess, zest, and a hint of herbal warmth that defines Heavenly Halibut. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Halibut fillets: Firm, mild, and buttery, halibut is the star that soaks up all the amazing flavors without falling apart.
- Mayonnaise: This secret weapon creates a rich, tangy base and helps keep the fish fabulously moist while baking.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that forms the irresistible golden crust on top.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds just the right pop of brightness to bring everything alive.
- Butter: A dab of softened butter gives the topping a velvety richness and helps with browning.
- Dried basil: Even a little bit adds subtle herbaceous notes that complement the delicate fish.
- Ground black pepper: For gentle warmth and even more depth of flavor.
- Onion powder: Delivers mellow savory undertones that round out the sauce.
- Celery salt: A hint of celery lifts the flavors and gives balance without overwhelming the palate.
How to Make Heavenly Halibut
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This medium heat ensures the halibut cooks evenly and stays juicy. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all your fillets in a single layer; this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Arrange the Halibut
Gently lay the halibut fillets in the prepared dish. Give them a little space so the topping can bubble up and brown nicely around each piece. Pat the fish dry with paper towels beforehand to help the sauce cling.
Step 3: Mix the Heavenly Halibut Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, softened butter, basil, black pepper, onion powder, and celery salt. You’re looking for a spreadable, creamy mixture that smells like pure heaven—this is where all those bold flavors combine and get ready to transform your fish.
Step 4: Smother and Spread
Divide the sauce evenly among the halibut fillets, smoothing it over the tops with the back of a spoon or spatula. Make sure every inch gets covered, right to the edges. This is the secret to locking in moisture and guaranteeing every bite is luxuriously coated.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and set the timer for 15–20 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily when prodded with a fork and the topping is set but not overly browned. If you want that extra touch of golden crispness, switch on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes—just watch carefully so the topping doesn’t burn.
How to Serve Heavenly Halibut
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, sprinkle a bit more grated Parmesan or a fresh crack of black pepper over the top right before serving. A lemon wedge or two on the side is never a bad idea, letting everyone add extra fresh zest to their portion. Fresh parsley or a few basil ribbons add a splash of color and just the right touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Think fluffy rice pilaf to soak up all the heavenly sauce, simple steamed green beans or asparagus for crunch, or a crisp green salad to contrast the richness of the fish. Roasted potatoes or a lemony couscous work wonderfully too, rounding out your meal without overpowering those signature flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling extra festive, try serving Heavenly Halibut on a bed of wilted spinach or sautéed zucchini ribbons. For dinner parties, arrange individual fillets on pretty plates, drizzle with a touch of basil oil, and top with microgreens. This fish also makes elegant sliders—just tuck flakes into a soft bun and top with a bit of the sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Heavenly Halibut (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature. Place the fillets in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as enjoyable the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked fillets. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them into a freezer bag. Try to use within a month for the freshest taste. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
To keep your reheated Heavenly Halibut as moist as possible, place the fillets in a baking dish, cover lightly with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. For a crispy top, uncover for the last few minutes under the broiler. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the fish tough.
FAQs
Can I use another white fish instead of halibut?
Absolutely! While halibut is classic for this dish, mild, firm white fish like cod, haddock, or even tilapia will work beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thinner fillets may cook faster.
Is there a lighter alternative to mayonnaise?
You can swap in light mayonnaise or even a mixture of plain Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter sauce that still gives you creamy richness without as much fat.
How do I know when my Heavenly Halibut is done?
Your fillets should flake easily with a fork and the topping will be set and lightly golden. Overcooking can dry out halibut, so check after 15 minutes and go by texture more than color alone.
Can I prepare the topping in advance?
Yes! The topping for Heavenly Halibut can be mixed up a day ahead and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just spread it over the fillets and pop them in the oven as directed.
What’s the best way to get a golden, crispy topping?
Broiling for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking gives that beautiful golden crust. Keep the baking dish close to the broiler and watch it closely so it doesn’t burn—just that little bit of extra heat does wonders.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a recipe that’s as quick and easy as it is unforgettable, and Heavenly Halibut checks every box. The flavors are bright and comforting, the texture is perfectly flaky, and the whole meal comes together in 30 minutes. Try it once, and you might just make it the go-to star of your dinner table.
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Heavenly Halibut Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Heavenly Halibut recipe is a delightful way to prepare halibut fillets that are moist, flavorful, and topped with a cheesy, tangy crust. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Halibut Fillets:
- 4 halibut fillets (about 6 oz each)
Cheesy Topping:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp celery salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare fillets: Place halibut fillets in a greased baking dish.
- Mix topping: Combine mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, butter, basil, pepper, onion powder, and celery salt.
- Top fillets: Spread mixture over each fillet.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until fish flakes easily.
- Broil: Optionally broil for a golden top during the last few minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- This recipe pairs well with cod or haddock.
- Great with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
