Quick Overview
If you’re looking for a delightful dinner idea that combines flavor and crunch, then this recipe for mayonnaise and panko crusted baked fish is just what you need. This dish features tender fish fillets coated in a creamy mayonnaise mixture and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredient Breakdown
Fish Fillets
For this recipe, you will need four boneless fish fillets such as cod or tilapia. These types of fish are mild in flavor and have a flaky texture when cooked. Each fillet should weigh about six ounces to ensure even cooking.
Mayonnaise
You will require half a cup of mayonnaise. This ingredient acts as both a binder and a flavor enhancer. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the fish while adding moisture during baking.
Panko Breadcrumbs
One cup of panko breadcrumbs is essential for achieving that delightful crunch. Panko is lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, providing a fantastic texture contrast to the tender fish beneath.
Lemon Juice
Two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice brighten up the dish with acidity. The citrus not only enhances the overall flavor but also balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
Garlic Powder
A teaspoon of garlic powder adds a savory depth to the dish without overpowering it. Garlic complements the flavors of both the fish and the crunchy topping beautifully.
Salt & Pepper
You will need one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper as seasonings. These ingredients enhance all other flavors in the dish, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step By Step Recipe: Mayonnaise and Panko Crusted Baked Fish
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your oven is hot enough to create a crispy crust on your panko-covered fish. Preheating allows for even cooking so that each fillet turns out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps prevent the fish from sticking while also allowing it to brown nicely during baking. Ensure that you spread the oil evenly across the bottom of the dish for best results.
Step 3: Mix Mayonnaise and Seasonings
In a medium bowl, combine half a cup of mayonnaise with two tablespoons of lemon juice, one teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these ingredients together until well blended. This creamy mixture will coat your fish fillets beautifully while adding tons of flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Fish Fillets
Take each fish fillet and dip it into your mayonnaise mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. Use a spatula or spoon to spread an extra layer over the top if desired; this will help keep your fillets moist during baking.
Step 5: Add Panko Topping
After coating each fillet in mayonnaise, sprinkle one cup of panko breadcrumbs generously over each piece. Press down slightly so that they adhere better to the mayonnaise layer without falling off during baking.
Step 6: Bake in Preheated Oven
Place the coated fish fillets into your prepared baking dish and put them in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the fillets are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The breadcrumbs should be golden brown at this stage.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Once your baked fish is ready, remove it from the oven carefully using oven mitts. Allow it to cool for a couple of minutes before serving; this resting time helps settle flavors while making it easier to serve without breaking apart.
Serving and Storing Tips
Tip 1: Serve with Fresh Sides
Pair your mayonnaise and panko crusted baked fish with fresh sides like steamed vegetables or a light salad. These complementing flavors enhance your meal experience while keeping it healthy.
Tip 2: Storing Leftovers Properly
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain crispiness when reheating, consider using an air fryer or oven instead of microwaving them.
Tip 3: Reheating Suggestions
When reheating your leftover baked fish, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain that crunchy texture from the original bake while ensuring safety in food handling.
With these instructions at hand, you’ll create delicious mayo and panko crusted baked fish that everyone can enjoy!
Tips and tricks
Using fresh ingredients always makes a difference in flavor. When selecting fish for your mayonnaise and panko crusted baked fish, look for fillets that smell clean and ocean-like rather than overly “fishy.” Freshness contributes greatly to not only taste but also texture; fresh fish holds up better during cooking.
For an extra crunchy crust, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with your panko breadcrumbs. This addition brings a pleasant nutty flavor while enhancing crispiness. Just mix equal parts panko to cheese so it balances well with your mayo layer without overpowering it.
Experiment with herbs and spices in your panko mix. Adding dried herbs like dill or parsley can elevate your dish significantly. You could also sprinkle some garlic powder or paprika for a hint of warmth and depth that complements the fish beautifully.
Don’t skip on cooling time after baking! Allowing your mayonnaise and panko crusted baked fish to rest for about five minutes before serving helps set the crust and keeps everything intact when you cut into it. This small step improves presentation as well as taste by allowing juices to redistribute within the fish itself.
Finally, consider serving with a dip or sauce on the side. A simple tartar sauce or homemade aioli pairs beautifully with this dish, adding another layer of flavor while providing moisture alongside that crispy crunch you’ve created.
Summary
Creating delicious mayonnaise and panko crusted baked fish requires careful attention to detail—from choosing fresh ingredients to ensuring proper cooking techniques. Avoid common mistakes like overcrowding pans or skipping seasoning for maximum flavor enhancement. Incorporate tips such as resting time post-baking along with flavorful suggestions like serving alongside salads or sauces for added enjoyment!
Delicious Mayonnaise and Panko Crusted Baked Fish Recipe
Description
If you’re looking for a delightful dinner idea that combines flavor and crunch, then this recipe for mayonnaise and panko crusted baked fish is just what you need. This dish features tender fish fillets coated in a creamy mayonnaise mixture and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
- Fish Fillets
- Mayonnaise
- Panko Breadcrumbs
- Lemon Juice
- Garlic Powder
- Salt & Pepper