Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender fish fillets are baked to perfection and topped with a zesty, creamy lemon sauce that adds a refreshing touch.
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter and place the fish fillets inside. Season them with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Bake the fish for 15-20 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 3: While the fish is baking, prepare the lemon cream sauce. In a small saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 4: Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pan. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 5: Remove the fish from the oven and spoon the warm lemon cream sauce over each fillet. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese while simmering.
- Try using fresh herbs like dill or parsley to garnish and enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer, swap out heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less thick.
- Make sure not to overbake the fish to keep it moist and tender.
Storage
Store any leftover baked fish and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated carefully.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen fish fillets can be used; just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before baking to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture.
What other types of fish work well in this recipe?
Mild, flaky white fish such as cod, haddock, tilapia, or sole work best, but you can experiment with salmon or trout for a richer flavor.
PrintBaked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe
A simple and elegant baked fish dish topped with a tangy and creamy lemon cream sauce, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut), about 6 ounces each
Sauce
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prepare the fish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
- Bake the fish: Bake the fish fillets in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Make the lemon cream sauce: While the fish is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove the baked fish from the oven and plate the fillets. Spoon the lemon cream sauce generously over the fish fillets and serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices.
Notes
- Use a firm white fish for best results, like cod or halibut.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less rich.
- Do not overcook the fish; it should be moist and tender.
- Add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve this dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: baked fish, lemon cream sauce, easy fish recipe, healthy dinner, seafood, quick dinner
