Discover 15 healthy baked fish recipes perfect for easy weeknight dinners. From light and flaky white fish to flavorful salmon and tilapia, these simple oven-baked meals are nutritious, family-friendly, and ready in minutes.
Finding easy, healthy dinners during a busy week can feel like a challenge, which is exactly why I love keeping a few go-to baked fish recipes in my rotation. They’re quick, light, and pair beautifully with so many of my favorite side dishes, like my Italian Mixed Salad with Shaved Parmesan and Brown Rice with Spinach and Herbs.
These 15 Healthy Baked Fish Recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, each one bursting with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re craving white fish, salmon, tilapia, or scallops, I’ve got a seafood meal for you!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Fish
Even the simplest baked fish recipes can go wrong with a few small missteps. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid so your fish turns out tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time:
- Overbaking the fish. The most frequent mistake! Fish cooks fast, and even a few extra minutes can dry it out. Start checking for doneness early. Fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temp of 145°F.
- Skipping the pat-dry step. Excess moisture can prevent browning and lead to a mushy texture. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking.
- Using too much liquid. A splash of citrus or broth is great, but too much can make the fish poach instead of bake. Keep added liquids minimal.
- Not seasoning enough. Fish has a mild flavor, so don’t be shy with herbs, spices, citrus, or marinades. Salt is essential for enhancing flavor.
- Baking at the wrong temperature. Low temps can make the fish rubbery, while overly high temps dry it out. Most baked fish recipes shine between 375°F-425°F.
- Skipping the resting time. Letting fish rest for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute and keeps each bite tender, whether it’s cod, halibut, tuna, or salmon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Many types of fish can go straight from freezer to oven. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time and season generously since frozen fish releases more water.
Avoid overcooking, use a light coating of olive oil or butter, and bake at a higher heat for a shorter time. Baking with lemon slices or a simple marinade also helps lock in moisture.
Most baked fish recipes are cooked uncovered, so the heat can circulate evenly and the fish can develop a light, flavorful crust. However, covering the fish with foil can be helpful if you want a softer, more steamed texture, or if you’re baking thicker cuts that need a little extra time without drying out. In general, bake uncovered for flaky, golden results and covered for extra-moist, gently cooked fish.
15 Healthy Baked Fish Recipes
Baked White Fish Recipes
Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Potatoes, Eggplant, and Tomatoes
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Parmesan Crusted White Fish
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Lemon Butter Baked White Fish
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Broiled White Fish with Mango Salsa
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Lebanese Baked Fish with Tahini Sauce and Toasted Pine Nuts
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Baked Salmon Recipes
Salmon with Lemon and Oregano
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Baked Dijon Salmon
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Garlic and Dill Roasted Salmon
Baked Salmon with Fresh Herbs
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Sweet and Spicy Baked Salmon
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Sheet Pan Salmon with Olives and Tomatoes
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Other Baked Fish Recipes
Baked Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
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Baked Tilapia Filet with Sun-Dried Tomato
Crispy Baked Fish Sticks with Tartar Sauce
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New England Baked Scallops with Panko
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Not in the Mood for Baked Fish? Try These Instead!
- Grilled White Fish with Tahini Sauce
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
- Crab Linguine in a White Wine Garlic Sauce
- Authentic Tequila Lime Shrimp
- Lightened Seafood Chowder
Eat It, Like It, Share It!
Did you try any of these recipes and like it? The next time you make one, snap a picture and share it to your socials! Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your dish.
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