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Servings: 4
Course: Main Course

Broiled Haddock with Brown Butter Breadcrumbs

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Ingredients
  

  • 4 haddock fillets 5 to 6 oz each
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 garlic clove finely minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cracked black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Sheet pan or over-safe skillet
  • Small saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fish spatula
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Prep
  1. Pat the haddock fillets very dry with paper towels. Lightly salt them and place in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes for a quick dry brine.
  2. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and zest the lemon.
  3. Preheat the broiler on high and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
Do
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Let it foam and cook until golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove immediately from heat.
  2. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Add the brown butter and mix until evenly coated.
  3. Pat the fish dry again after dry brining. Lightly brush the tops with Dijon mustard.
  4. Place the haddock on a lightly oiled sheet pan and season with pepper. Press a thin, even layer of breadcrumbs onto each fillet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
  5. Broil on high for 6 to 9 minutes until the topping is golden and crisp and the fish reaches 125 to 130°F internally. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Finish
  1. Rest for 2 minutes. Finish with fresh lemon juice and serve immediately.

Notes

This method builds on classic baked haddock and breadcrumb crust techniques, using broiling for faster cooking and better texture.

Level up ideas:
  • Add grated parmesan to the crumbs for deeper savoury flavour
  • Finish with capers and extra brown butter for a sharper finish
  • Add chilli flakes for light heat
 
Make it gluten free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers
Make it dairy free: Replace butter with high-quality olive oil and skip browning

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