Name: Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup panko bread crumbs; ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley; ¼ cup chopped fresh dill; ¼ cup chopped fresh chives; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; extra-virgin olive oil for rubbing on the fillets; 4 (6 ounce) halibut fillets; salt & pepper, to taste after cooking

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 86 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a special occasion but comes together without any fuss, the Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish perfectly balances the mild, flaky texture of fresh halibut with a crispy, golden crust packed with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and sharp parmesan. Every bite bursts with savory layers, making it an irresistible meal that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe brings charm and simplicity to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three pieces of pale raw fish fillets with a light drizzle of yellow oil on top, lying on white parchment paper that covers a silver metal tray. To the right side of the tray, there is a large white bowl filled with a crumbly mixture that has green herbs sprinkled throughout. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each play a key role in creating that unforgettable flavor and texture. From the crunchy panko breadcrumbs to the brightness of fresh herbs, every element complements the delicate halibut perfectly.

¾ cup panko bread crumbs: Adds a wonderfully light and crispy texture to the crust.
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Brings a deliciously sharp, salty flavor that crisps up beautifully.
⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley: Lends a fresh, slightly peppery note that brightens the dish.
¼ cup chopped fresh dill: Offers a subtle anise-like aroma that pairs well with fish.
¼ cup chopped fresh chives: Adds a mild oniony hint without overpowering the flavors.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Provides a zesty citrus punch that cuts through the richness.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Used to moisten the fillets and help the crust stick while adding richness.
4 (6 ounce) halibut fillets: The star ingredient, tender and mild in flavor.
Salt & pepper, to taste: Simply seasoned after baking to enhance all the other flavors without overshadowing them.

How to Make Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Herb Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 400ºF, so it’s perfectly hot for baking that crusty topping. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to keep cleanup easy. In a shallow bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dill, chives, and lemon zest. This mixture is where the magic happens — it’s going to form that irresistible crunchy crust that coats the halibut.

Step 2: Prep the Halibut

Rinse your halibut fillets gently under cold water and pat them completely dry using paper towels. Dry fish ensures proper adhesion of the crust and prevents steaming instead of baking. Place the fillets onto your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the tops and rub it into both sides of each fillet; this step not only adds moisture but also helps the herb and parmesan mixture cling beautifully.

Step 3: Apply the Parmesan and Herb Crust

Dredge each fillet in the crumb and cheese mixture, pressing lightly with your fingers to make sure the coating sticks well. Don’t be shy — the more evenly coated, the better the final crunch will be when baked.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Return your coated fillets to the baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly browned and the fish is opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. Patience here results in perfectly cooked halibut with a golden, flavorful crust.

Step 5: Season and Serve

After baking, taste and season the fish with salt and pepper if desired. Since parmesan is naturally salty, you might find you need very little or no extra salt. This finishing touch enhances the flavors without overshadowing the fresh herbs and delicate fish.

How to Serve Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a meal with three main parts: on the left is a piece of fish covered in a golden brown, crumbly topping mixed with green herbs, the middle has bright green cooked green beans seasoned with cracked black pepper, and on the right is a mound of fluffy light brown rice. Two thin lemon slices sit on the plate, one resting on the green beans and the other between the fish and rice. A silver fork and knife lie beside the plate. In the background, there is a white bowl with pepper and another white plate with a similar meal, all on a soft white cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When serving your Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness right before plating. A few lemon wedges on the side are not just pretty — they invite guests to add a touch more citrus brightness for an elevated bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light and vibrant sides to keep the meal balanced. Consider serving it alongside garlic roasted asparagus, a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or fluffy quinoa tossed with pine nuts and fresh herbs. These choices complement the crust’s richness without competing with the gentle flavor of the halibut.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, place each fillet on a bed of wilted spinach or lightly mashed cauliflower. Drizzle a subtle lemon butter sauce around the plate to tie the flavors together visually and tastefully. If you’re feeling fancy, topping the dish with a few microgreens or edible flowers can make your meal feel restaurant-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from the Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep nicely for up to two days. To maintain the crispy crust, try to keep the fillets separated by parchment paper.

Freezing

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze unbaked, coated fillets. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Use within one month for best quality. When ready to cook, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat leftover baked halibut without losing the crispiness of the crust, use an oven or toaster oven set to 350ºF. Warm the fish for about 10 minutes until heated through, avoiding the microwave which tends to soften the coating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish with this recipe?

Absolutely! While halibut is ideal for its firm texture and mild flavor, thick fillets of cod, haddock, or even sea bass would work wonderfully with the parmesan and herb crust.

How do I know when the halibut is done baking?

The halibut is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The crust should be golden and lightly browned. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep a close eye starting at the 10-minute mark.

Can I prepare the herb crust mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the panko, parmesan, herbs, and lemon zest in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a day. This makes the assembly even quicker.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor and provide vibrant color in this recipe. While dried herbs can work in a pinch, they won’t deliver the same brightness or texture in the crust.

What sides pair best with this recipe for a dinner party?

Keep it light and elegant with sides like roasted baby potatoes, a crisp arugula salad with shaved parmesan, or lemon garlic butter green beans. These complementary flavors let the baked halibut remain the star of the meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about the Baked Halibut with Parmesan and Herb Crust Recipe — it’s a dish that feels sophisticated yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of fresh herbs, crisp parmesan crust, and tender halibut fillets makes it a weeknight winner or a go-to for entertaining. Give it a try soon, and you might find it becoming one of your most requested recipes.