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Easy Baked Halibut Recipe - Tender, Flaky, and Ready in Minutes

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 halibut fillets (6–8 ounces each, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional but great with halibut)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly oil a baking dish.
  • Pat the fish dry: Use paper towels to dry the halibut on all sides. This helps the seasonings stick and encourages even cooking.
  • Mix the flavor base: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and half the lemon juice. Stir in parsley, dill, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Season the fillets: Place the halibut on the pan. Spoon the butter mixture over the top and sides, coating evenly.
  • Bake until just done: Cook for 10–14 minutes, depending on thickness. Halibut is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 130–135°F in the center (carryover heat will bring it up a bit).
  • Finish with freshness: Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the fish. Add extra parsley or dill if you like.
  • Serve right away: Plate with lemon wedges. Great sides include roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, couscous, or a simple salad.