Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut

A rich and savory seafood dish, Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut features tender halibut fillets topped with a roasted garlic and parmesan-mayo crust, then broiled to golden perfection. With deep flavor and a creamy finish, it’s an elegant yet easy option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the delicate flavor of halibut with the bold richness of roasted garlic and parmesan cheese. The creamy topping not only adds moisture to the fish but also forms a flavorful crust under the broiler. It’s simple to prepare, visually impressive, and packed with protein—making it a go-to for both busy weeknights and dinner parties.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• garlic
• olive oil
• unsalted butter
• halibut fillets, skinless
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• mayonnaise
• parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the top off a head of garlic, leaving the cloves intact.
3. Brush off excess outer paper skin and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Wrap in foil and roast for 45 minutes until garlic is soft and golden.
5. Set aside 6 roasted cloves for the recipe. Reserve any remaining cloves for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Halibut

1. Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
2. In an oven-safe pan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place fillets in the pan and transfer to the oven. Roast for 10 minutes, until the fish is opaque and just cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Topping

1. Blend 6 roasted garlic cloves with mayonnaise and grated parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Broil the Halibut

1. Remove halibut from the oven.
2. Spread the garlic-parmesan mixture generously over the top of each fillet.
3. Set oven to high broil and return the pan to the oven.
4. Broil for 3–4 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the pan from the oven and let the fish rest for a minute.
2. Serve hot with seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories per serving: 350 kcal (approximate, based on 1400 kcal for entire recipe)

Variations

• Different Fish: Substitute cod, haddock, or tilapia if halibut isn’t available.
• Add Herbs: Blend in fresh parsley or chives for added brightness in the topping.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic-mayo blend.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the topping for a touch of citrus to balance the richness.
• Crusted Finish: Sprinkle a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs over the topping before broiling for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover halibut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, which may dry out the fish.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy topping may separate and affect texture upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I prepare the garlic-parmesan topping ahead of time?

Yes, the topping can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Is halibut the only fish that works for this recipe?

No, other firm white fish such as cod, sea bass, or snapper are also good alternatives.

Can I roast the garlic ahead of time?

Absolutely. Roasted garlic can be made up to a week ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container.

How do I know when halibut is done?

Halibut is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 130°F (54°C) to 135°F (57°C).

Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

Yes, but freshly grated parmesan will melt and blend more smoothly with the mayonnaise.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad pair beautifully with this halibut.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.

Can I use garlic powder instead of roasted garlic?

Roasted garlic is essential for the rich flavor. Garlic powder lacks the depth and sweetness, so it’s not a recommended substitute.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You may use a dairy-free parmesan substitute and vegan mayonnaise, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

What wine pairs best with this halibut?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut is a flavorful and elegant seafood option that’s surprisingly easy to make. The roasted garlic and creamy parmesan topping elevate the mild halibut, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refined. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet weeknight meal, this recipe delivers with taste and presentation.

Garlic Parmesan Baked Halibut

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A rich and savory halibut dish topped with roasted garlic, creamy parmesan mayo, and broiled until golden — perfect for an elegant weeknight dinner or impressive seafood centerpiece.

• Author: Mari
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking, Broiling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 head of garlic
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 pound halibut fillets, skinless, divided into 4 portions
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the top off a head of garlic, brush off the outer paper skin, and leave the cloves intact. Place on foil, drizzle with olive oil, wrap tightly, and roast for 45 minutes until soft. Set aside 6 cloves for the recipe and save the rest for later use.
2. Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Heat butter in an oven-safe pan over low heat. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper. Once butter is melted, place fillets in the pan and transfer to oven. Roast for 10 minutes until opaque and just cooked through.
3. Blend 6 roasted garlic cloves with mayonnaise and grated parmesan until smooth and creamy.
4. Remove the fish from the oven and generously spread the garlic-parmesan mixture on top. Set oven to high broil and return the pan for about 4 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.
5. Carefully remove the pan and let the halibut sit for a minute. Serve hot with your favorite vegetable or salad sides.

Notes

• Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and texture.
• Leftover roasted garlic can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Be careful not to overcook the halibut to maintain its tender texture.
• This topping works well on other white fish like cod or haddock.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg