Crispy Baked Halibut Delight
This Crispy Baked Halibut Delight is a treasured recipe from my Alaskan school cafeteria days, where it quickly became a local favorite. The halibut fillets are coated in a crunchy Ritz cracker crust that locks in the moistness of the fish, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish not only brings back fond memories but is also incredibly fast and straightforward to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that your family will surely love.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Halibut fillets
4 (3 - 4 ounce) (cut into 3 - 4 oz portions)
Butter
1 cup (melted)
Seasoning salt
1 teaspoon (Johnny's or preferred brand)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Garlic powder
1 teaspoon ( )
Ritz crackers
2 cups (crushed into crumb-sized pieces)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Cut the halibut fillets into 3 - 4 oz portions—about the size of your fist.
3
In a small bowl, melt the butter completely. Set aside.
4
Using a food processor or a plastic bag and rolling pin, crush the Ritz crackers until they achieve a crumb-like consistency.
5
In a separate bowl, combine the seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, mixing well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
6
Dip each halibut portion into the melted butter, coating it thoroughly, then dredge it in the cracker mixture, making sure to cover all sides.
7
Arrange the coated halibut portions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
8
Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top of the halibut for extra flavor and moisture.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 - 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Baked Halibut Delight?
It is a treasured seafood recipe featuring halibut fillets coated in a crunchy Ritz cracker crust, originally popularized in Alaskan school cafeterias.
What type of fish is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses halibut fillets, which are known for being moist and flaky.
How should I portion the halibut?
The halibut should be cut into 3 to 4 ounce portions, approximately the size of your fist.
What provides the crunch in the crust?
The signature crunch comes from two cups of crushed Ritz crackers.
How do I prepare the Ritz crackers for the coating?
You can crush them using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin until they reach a crumb-like consistency.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking the halibut.
How much butter is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of melted butter.
What seasonings are added to the cracker mixture?
The seasoning blend includes one teaspoon of seasoning salt, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and one teaspoon of garlic powder.
Which brand of seasoning salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests using Johnny's seasoning salt or your own preferred brand.
How do I apply the coating to the fish?
Dip each halibut portion into the melted butter first, then dredge it in the cracker and seasoning mixture to cover all sides.
How long does the halibut need to bake?
The fish should bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
How can I tell when the halibut is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
What should I do with any leftover melted butter?
Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top of the halibut portions before baking for extra flavor and moisture.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is described as incredibly fast and straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights.
What side dishes pair well with Crispy Baked Halibut?
It pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh salad.
Does the Ritz cracker crust help keep the fish moist?
Yes, the Ritz cracker crust locks in the moistness of the fish while it bakes.
What is the origin of this specific recipe?
The recipe comes from the creator's Alaskan school cafeteria days.
Is garlic powder necessary for the recipe?
Yes, one teaspoon of garlic powder is included in the seasoning mix to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
Can I use ground black pepper?
Yes, the recipe specifies using half a teaspoon of ground black pepper.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features a crunchy exterior with a moist and flaky interior.
Is this considered Alaskan cuisine?
Yes, it is tagged as Alaskan cuisine and was a local favorite in Alaska.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 6 main ingredients: halibut, butter, seasoning salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Ritz crackers.
What is the total number of cracker crumbs needed?
The recipe requires 2 cups of Ritz cracker crumbs.
Do I need to grease the parchment paper?
The recipe does not specify greasing, as the parchment paper itself prevents sticking.
Can I use frozen halibut?
While the recipe uses fillets, if using frozen halibut, ensure it is completely thawed and patted dry before dipping in butter.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and brings back fond memories for the creator.
What is the main flavor profile?
The flavor is savory and buttery with a hint of garlic and a salty crunch.
Does this recipe work for kids?
Yes, its mild flavor and crunchy texture made it a favorite in school cafeterias.