Baked Flounder (Easy, Flaky, Fast!) Recipe
Introduction
This baked flounder recipe is quick, easy, and results in tender, flaky fish with a subtle smoky flavor. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to create a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 5-oz flounder fillets
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and place them on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, and lemon juice. Brush this mixture onto both sides of each fish fillet.
- Step 3: In another small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of each fillet liberally with this seasoning blend.
- Step 4: Bake the flounder in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees F (60 degrees C). Check at 10 minutes as cooking time may vary depending on thickness.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra citrusy touch, add lemon zest to the butter mixture before brushing on the fish.
- Substitute smoked paprika with sweet or hot paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added brightness.
- If you prefer, cook until 145 degrees F for firmer fish, but 140 degrees F keeps it more moist and tender.
Storage
Store leftover baked flounder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to prevent drying out. For best texture, consume within one day.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, this seasoning and baking method works well with delicate white fish like cod, sole, or tilapia. Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish.
What can I serve with baked flounder?
Baked flounder pairs nicely with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
Print
Baked Flounder (Easy, Flaky, Fast!) Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Flounder recipe is an easy, fast, and delicious way to prepare flaky flounder fillets. With a simple blend of melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, and flavorful spices, this dish bakes to tender perfection in just 12-15 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light seafood meal, it delivers moist, well-seasoned fish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 5-oz Flounder fillets
Butter Mixture
- 1 tbsp Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Meanwhile, pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and place them on a rimmed baking sheet to prepare for seasoning.
- Prepare the butter mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, olive oil, and lemon juice thoroughly. Using a brush, coat both sides of each fish fillet evenly with this mixture to add flavor and help retain moisture during baking.
- Season the fish: In another small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle and rub this seasoning blend liberally onto both sides of the fish fillets to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Bake the flounder: Place the baking sheet with fish into the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees F (60 degrees C). Check at 10 minutes as baking time varies depending on fillet thickness. For slightly firmer fish, you may bake to 145 degrees F, but 140 degrees yields more tender, moist results.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps the butter and spices adhere better.
- Use a cooking thermometer for precise doneness and moist texture.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste or add fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
- Serve with lemon wedges or your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables or rice.
- Do not overcook to keep the fillets flaky and tender.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked flounder, easy fish recipe, flaky fish, quick seafood dinner, healthy baked fish
