Are you craving that flaky, perfectly seasoned baked fish you remember from Golden Corral? Forget the buffet lines and the crowds! This recipe brings that delicious taste right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly simple, healthy, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. Get ready to experience homemade deliciousness that rivals your favorite restaurant!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed.
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets, or your preferred white fish (such as tilapia or haddock)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Fish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture forms the base of the incredible flavor profile.
Step 3: Marinate and Bake
Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the fish, ensuring each fillet is coated. This step is crucial for that Golden Corral-like flavor. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for even deeper flavor penetration. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Garnish
During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the fish. This adds a delightful salty and cheesy topping. Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Fish:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked fish is dry and tough. Use a fork to gently check for doneness. It should flake easily.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to customize the herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations!
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs always provide a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs. If using fresh oregano and thyme, use about double the amount.
- Bone your fish: If using whole fish fillets, ensure all bones are removed for a safer and more enjoyable dining experience.
Variations:
- Spicy Fish: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Butter: Instead of a simple butter marinade, try a compound butter with lemon zest, garlic, and herbs.
- Creamy Fish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche to the marinade for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers to the baking dish for a complete and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This delicious Golden Corral-inspired baked fish recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal your family will love. Enjoy!