5 Easy Haddock Recipes to Try Today in 2024

Haddock is a fantastic choice for boosting your diet with lean protein, vitamins, and minerals without adding many calories. Although fattier fish like salmon are a superior source of omega-3 fatty acids, haddock, which is rich in protein and low in fat, can still contribute to your daily intake of essential nutrients that support heart and brain health¹.

While many recipes may not typically feature haddock, this versatile fish can be easily substituted in many seafood recipes. For those ready to explore its culinary potential, I've collaborated with our in-house nutritionist to outline 5 easy recipes you can try. 

If haddock isn’t available, many other fish like cod, pollock, halibut, or tilapia can also be used in these recipes. For those interested in exploring more seafood options, refer to our list of the best pescatarian meal delivery services. This flexibility allows you to enjoy a variety of dishes while still reaping similar nutritional benefits.

1. Cheesy Baked Haddock

Ingredients 📃

• 4 portions of haddock (150 g per person)

• 120 g of breadcrumbs

• 120 g grated parmesan

• 4 tbsp of olive oil

• Half cup of whole milk

• Seasoning (salt & pepper)

• Mixed dried herbs (optional)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Mix breadcrumbs with the grated cheese.

2. Dip haddock in milk, then coat in cheesy breadcrumbs.

3. Place breaded fish portions into an oven-proof baking dish.

4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle seasoning (plus optional herbs) over.

5. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes at 500 degrees F.

Overview

Cheesy-Baked Haddock is a family-friendly recipe, particularly because it allows kids to actively participate. They can help by dipping the haddock into milk and then coating it with the cheesy breadcrumb mix. This not only makes cooking fun but also educational as they learn about the ingredients and process.

This dish is easily customizable, offering the option to switch up the types of cheese used – such as cheddar or parmesan – to suit different tastes. Adding dried herbs like oregano can enhance the flavor, making it a perfect recipe for those who like to experiment in the kitchen.

Cheesy-Baked Haddock pairs well with a wide array of sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Whether served with a simple mashed potato and veggies or a more elaborate rice and salad combo, this dish fits seamlessly into various meal plans, catering to different dietary preferences and occasions.

2. Mediterranean-Style Haddock

Ingredients 📃

• 600 g of chopped haddock (150 g per person)

• Seasoning

• Juice of half a lemon

• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup of olives

• 1 sliced zucchini

• 1 red onion, chopped

• 4 tbsp olive oil 

• Dried or fresh herbs (optional)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Place haddock pieces in an oven-proof dish, season, and drizzle with lemon juice.

2. Combine tomatoes, olives, zucchini, and onion in a separate bowl with olive oil, seasoning, and herbs (if preferred).

3. Pour the mixture from the bowl over the fish.

4. Bake at 450 degrees F for 20 minutes. 

Overview

The Mediterranean-Style Haddock stands out as an excellent choice for those with limited time. Preparation is straightforward and fast, requiring just a few minutes to assemble the ingredients before baking. This simplicity makes it a perfect go-to dish for quick weeknight dinners or last-minute meals.

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have in your fridge. For example, bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus can easily be substituted for or added to the zucchini and onion, enhancing the dish’s flavor and nutritional value. 

Serving this flavorful haddock with boiled potatoes and green leafy vegetables like kale or spinach creates a balanced and satisfying meal. The mildness of the potatoes and the freshness of the greens complement the rich flavors of the Mediterranean-style toppings, rounding out the dish beautifully.

3. Fried Fish Sandwich 

Ingredients 📃

• 4 haddock filets (150 g per person)

• 1 egg 

• Seasoning

• 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup of flour 

• 4 tbsp canola oil for frying

• 4 bread buns

• Sliced cucumber

• Sliced tomato

• Lettuce

• 4 tbsp mayo (to serve)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Beat the egg in a bowl with seasoning.

2. Place flour on a plate and breadcrumbs onto a separate plate. 

3. Dip each haddock filet into the flour, then into the egg, before pressing into the breadcrumbs to coat. 

4. Heat oil in a skillet on a medium-high heat.

5. Fry each breaded filet for 2 to 3 minutes on each side then drain on kitchen paper.

6. Split buns to toast (if preferred) then assemble filets in buns with cucumber, tomato, lettuce, and mayo.

Overview

This recipe takes a beloved classic and enhances it with the light, flaky texture of haddock. The image above from Dinnerly is created with tilapia instead of haddock, which shows how easy it is to adapt recipes to suit your tastes. The crispy panko breadcrumb coating provides a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tender fish.

Preparing this sandwich involves a simple breading process that even novice cooks can master quickly. By dipping the haddock filets first in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs, you create a seal that locks in the fish's moisture during frying.

Assembling the sandwich with fresh cucumber, tomato, and lettuce not only adds a refreshing crunch but also balances the richness of the fried fish. You can easily substitute the mayo with other sauces like tartar or a light yogurt dressing to suit your tastes. You could also use other toppings like avocado or coleslaw.

4. Smoked Haddock Pasta Bake

Ingredients 📃

• 300 g of pasta shapes

• 2 large smoked haddock filets (200 g per person)

• 2 cups of vegetable broth

• 1 ½ cups of crème fraîche

• Seasoning to taste

• Dried or fresh parsley

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook your pasta shapes according to the instructions on the packet.

2. Add the broth and smoked haddock filets to a large pan and simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Remove the smoked haddock from the pan and break it into chunks.

4. Drain pasta and add the crème fraîche to the pasta in the hot pan.

5. Stir in the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt.

6. Stir haddock through the pasta and creamy sauce and add seasoning and herbs to taste.

Overview

This dish caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're a fan of traditional pasta shapes like fusilli and penne or require a gluten-free option, this recipe allows you to use your favorite kind. This adaptability makes it a suitable dish for everyone, ensuring that pasta lovers can enjoy it just the way they like.

There’s something inherently comforting about a hearty pasta dish paired with a creamy sauce, especially during the cooler months. The combination of tender smoked haddock, rich crème fraîche, and warm pasta creates a satisfying meal that soothes and fills. This dish is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to indulge in classic comfort food with a flavorful twist.

Enhancing this pasta bake with vegetables not only increases its nutritional profile but also adds vibrant colors and textures to the dish. Leafy greens like spinach and kale, or crunchy vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers, blend beautifully with the creamy pasta. Adding these makes the meal more nutritionally balanced.

5. Basque-Style Haddock 

Ingredients 📃

• ¾ cup uncooked rice

• 2 haddock filets (150 g per person) 

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves of minced garlic

• ½ red onion, diced 

• 1 can (400 g) of diced tomatoes

• Seasoning

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook rice according to the instructions on the packet. 

2. Meanwhile, add chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, and diced onion to a pan.

3. Heat the mixture in the pan on a medium heat until softened.

4. Add the diced tomatoes and seasoning, and cook while stirring to reduce the sauce a little.

5. Add the olive oil to a skillet and cook the haddock on a medium-high heat for 3 minutes on each side. 

6. Divide the cooked rice and sauce between dishes and top with the haddock filets.

Overview

This recipe offers a mix of flavors that pair well with various grains, allowing for dietary customization. Try serving it with traditional white rice, nutrient-rich quinoa, light cauliflower rice, or even mashed sweet potatoes. Opting for sweet potatoes can particularly elevate the dish’s nutritional value, adding vitamins and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory profile.

It’s a great choice for special occasions. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for 2 or a casual gathering with friends, the vibrant colors and rich flavors of the dish are sure to impress. It’s a straightforward recipe that creates a sense of occasion without requiring extensive preparation, leaving you more time to enjoy the company.

For those monitoring their sodium intake, this dish can easily be adjusted without sacrificing flavor. By omitting salt and adding more herbs, along with a squeeze of lemon juice, you can enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. 

FAQ

How do you know when haddock is cooked?

Haddock is fully cooked when its flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145 °F for safety.

Can I use frozen haddock for these recipes?

Yes, you can use frozen haddock. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

Where is the best place to buy haddock?

The best place to buy haddock is at reputable seafood markets or grocery stores with a good turnover of fresh fish. Look for clear-eyed, firm-fleshed fish with a fresh sea aroma.

What herbs complement haddock well?

Dill, parsley, and thyme complement haddock well. These herbs enhance the mild flavor of the fish without overpowering it.

Is haddock a healthy fish?

Yes, haddock is a healthy fish. It's low in fat and high in protein, and while it has less omega-3 fatty acids than fattier fish, it still contributes to a healthy diet.

References 

1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000767.htm