Parmesan Crusted Halibut – Easy Recipe

This Parmesan-Crusted Halibut recipe is both easy to make and a delicious, wholesome and gluten-free entrée. Halibut is the ideal fish for a simple yet elegant dinner, thanks to its mild flavor and firm texture. When paired with a crispy, golden Parmesan crust, it becomes a simple yet elegant seafood dinner.

7 Tips on Cooking Halibut

If you’re fairly new to cooking with halibut, these tips will help you achieve the best results and make your cooking experience even easier.

1. Choose Fresh, Quality Fish: When buying halibut, look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a clean, slightly sweet smell. Fresh fish should not have a strong “fishy” odor. If buying frozen, ensure it’s been properly stored and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
2. Pat the Fish Dry: Halibut tends to release moisture during cooking, so be sure to pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps the seasonings stick and also ensures a crispier skin if you’re leaving the skin on.
3. Don’t Overcook: Halibut is best when cooked just until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should flake easily with a fork but still retain moisture. Overcooking can cause it to dry out, so keep an eye on the time and temperature.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked halibut every time, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fillet for an accurate reading. Halibut is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). The fish should also flake easily with a fork when it’s done.
5. Experiment with Toppings and Seasonings: Halibut has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Don’t hesitate to try different herbs, spices, and coatings. This Parmesan crust recipe is a great example, but you can also experiment with lemon, garlic, herbs, or even a light marinade before cooking.
6. Leave the Skin On for Crispiness: If you like crispy fish skin, leave the skin on your halibut fillets. The skin helps retain moisture while the flesh cooks, and if you bake or pan-sear it correctly, it will crisp up beautifully. Just make sure to cook the fish skin-side down when baking or pan-frying.
7. Rest the Fish Before Serving: Once the halibut is done cooking, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the fish stays moist when you cut into it.

Substitutions and Recommendations

Halibut substitutions

Halibut fillets are generally sold skin-on and boneless, making them easy to cook. If you’re unable to find halibut, you can substitute with another firm white fish like cod, sea bass or haddock. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillet.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

While pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, fresh-grated Parmesan is preferred for this recipe. Freshly grated cheese melts and crisps better, resulting in a more flavorful crust. If you must use pre-grated, choose a high-quality option for the best results.

What is a good substitute for green onions?

If you’re not a fan of green onions or don’t have them on hand, feel free to leave them out. You can substitute them with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, thyme, or some garlic for an additional layer of flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it’s best to cook this dish fresh for the crispiest results, you can prepare the halibut fillets with the Parmesan topping in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. However, bake the fish within a couple of hours for the best texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use pure Parmesan cheese (without added fillers). This halibut dish is a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Does halibut grill well?

Yes! If you’d prefer to cook the halibut on the grill, preheat it to medium heat and place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets to cook for another 3-4 minutes until done. Be cautious while flipping so the Parmesan crust doesn’t fall off.

Explore some of our favorite gluten-free seafood recipes

Gluten-Free Salmon Wellington Recipe

Creamy Salmon Pasta – Gluten Free

Salmon With Thai Coconut Cream Sauce

Smoked Salmon, Asparagus & Goat Cheese Quiche (Keto & Gluten-Free)

Serving Suggestions:

This seafood dish pairs beautifully with a light coleslaw, or one of our delicious rice dishes. My personal favourite side is the Low-Carb Garlic Mashed Fauxtatoeswhich complements the halibut perfectly for a well-rounded meal.

Recipe Review: Parmesan-Crusted Halibut

This Parmesan-Crusted Halibut recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both delicious and healthy. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this recipe offers a fantastic way to highlight the delicate flavor of halibut with a crispy, savory twist.

With helpful tips and recommendations, you’re guaranteed to achieve great results every time. The combination of fresh Parmesan cheese and green onions gives the fish a golden, flavorful crust, while the baking process ensures the halibut remains tender and moist. It’s an easy yet impressive way to to create a seafood meal!

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Many thanks!

Kristina x