Halibut is a versatile and delicious fish that can be prepared in many different ways.

From baked recipes with herb butter to prosciutto-wrapped fillets, there are countless options to try. You’ll find that halibut’s mild flavor and firm texture make it perfect for various cooking methods.

These 21 best halibut recipes offer something for everyone, whether you prefer simple preparations or more complex dishes.

The fish cooks quickly, often in less than 20 minutes, and turns out flaky, tender, and buttery when prepared correctly. With options like halibut fish tacos, onion crunch toppings, and wine-infused baked versions, you’ll never run out of new ways to enjoy this wonderful seafood.

1. Pan-Seared Halibut with Lemon Caper Sauce

Pan-seared halibut with lemon caper sauce is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. This recipe creates a golden, perfectly cooked fish topped with a tangy, buttery sauce.

To prepare this elegant meal, sear the halibut fillets undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until well-browned on the bottom.

The sides should cook just past halfway up the fillets.

The magic happens when you add the lemon caper sauce. This buttery, tangy topping perfectly complements the mild, tender fish. The bright flavors of lemon and capers enhance the halibut’s natural taste without overpowering it.

This impressive dish works wonderfully for special occasions but is quick enough for weeknight dinners too.

2. Baked Halibut with Garlic and Herbs

Baked halibut with garlic and herbs offers a perfect balance of flavors without overwhelming the delicate fish. This easy recipe takes only about 15 minutes to prepare.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F.

Pat the halibut fillets dry and place them in a baking dish.

Mix minced garlic, fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, and parsley, and a splash of lemon juice with melted butter.

Pour this fragrant mixture over your fish. The garlic adds depth while the herbs bring brightness. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork, usually 12-15 minutes depending on thickness.

This healthy preparation keeps the halibut moist and flavorful while letting its natural taste shine through.

3. Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw

Halibut fish tacos make a delicious and healthy meal option that’s perfect for casual dining. The mild, flaky texture of halibut pairs wonderfully with the crunch of fresh cilantro slaw.

To make these tacos, start by cutting halibut fillets into 1-inch chunks and seasoning them with ancho chile powder and cumin.

Cook the fish until it flakes easily with a fork.

The cilantro slaw combines shredded savoy cabbage with sour cream and fresh cilantro. Serve the fish and slaw on warm corn tortillas, then top with pico de gallo for a burst of fresh flavor.

Each taco needs about ¼ cup of slaw and is best enjoyed immediately while the tortillas are still warm.

4. Grilled Halibut with Mango Salsa

Grilled halibut with mango salsa brings together savory fish with sweet and spicy flavors in one delicious dish. The mild, fresh halibut gets a wonderful char from the grill while the bright mango salsa adds a perfect contrast.

You can prepare this healthy meal in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

The fish is easy to cook – just season it well and place it on a hot grill until it flakes easily.

For the salsa, combine fresh mango chunks with jalapeño for a hint of heat. Some recipes also include avocado for extra creaminess. This light and refreshing combination works perfectly with the delicate flavor of the halibut.

5. Prosciutto-Wrapped Halibut

Prosciutto-wrapped halibut combines delicate fish with salty, savory prosciutto for a dish that’s impressive yet simple to prepare. You’ll love how the thin slices of prosciutto crisp up while protecting the flaky halibut inside.

The preparation is straightforward – just wrap skinless halibut fillets with prosciutto slices and roast them in the oven. No complex techniques required!

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides.

Try it with pea puree and balsamic tomatoes for a colorful plate, or serve it with spinach and sundried tomato couscous for a Mediterranean twist.

For extra flavor, consider adding a lemony herb-caper butter that melts beautifully over the warm fish.

6. Halibut with Parmesan Cheese Crust

Parmesan-crusted halibut offers a perfect balance of flavors with its crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. The key to this recipe is combining panko breadcrumbs with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the ultimate crunchy topping.

Season your halibut fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice before coating them with the Parmesan mixture. Bake at 450°F for just a few minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

This dish works wonderfully served with rice and asparagus for a quick weeknight dinner. The rich, cheesy crust adds incredible flavor while keeping the delicate halibut moist during cooking.

7. Halibut in Lemon Butter Sauce

Lemon butter sauce is a classic pairing for halibut that enhances its delicate flavor. This simple but elegant preparation takes just 20 minutes to cook.

Start with a fresh halibut fillet and season it with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for color.

Pan-searing gives the fish a golden crust while keeping the inside flaky and tender.

For the sauce, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. Some recipes add fresh herbs like parsley to brighten the flavors even more.

You can also bake your halibut with the lemon butter sauce for an easy, hands-off cooking method that yields consistently moist results.

8. Herb-Crusted Baked Halibut

Herb-crusted halibut transforms an already excellent fish into a showstopper dinner. The crispy panko coating locks in moisture while adding delightful texture.

For the best results, combine panko bread crumbs with fresh herbs like parsley and basil, plus lemon zest and minced garlic. A touch of olive oil helps the crust brown beautifully.

Bake at 425°F until the fish flakes easily with a fork. This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals.

You’ll love how the herbs and lemon brighten the mild, flaky halibut. It’s a healthy, impressive dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

9. Halibut with Dill and Mustard

This flavorful dish combines the fresh taste of dill with tangy mustard to create a perfect complement to halibut’s mild flavor. The herbs and spices create a delicious crust when baked.

You can use Dijon mustard as your base, which adds a sophisticated flavor profile without overpowering the fish. Mix it with fresh chopped dill, a touch of horseradish for heat, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for richness.

This recipe takes only about 15 minutes to bake, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The result is a moist, flaky fish with a creamy topping that will impress your dinner guests every time.

10. Coconut Curry Halibut

Coconut curry halibut combines the delicate taste of this premium fish with rich, aromatic curry flavors. The creamy coconut provides a perfect balance to the spices.

You can poach halibut fillets directly in a tomato coconut curry sauce for a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make. The fish absorbs the flavors beautifully while remaining moist and tender.

Serve your coconut curry halibut over rice or with sautéed spinach to soak up the flavorful broth. For a complete meal, add green beans and roasted red bell peppers as colorful and nutritious sides.

This dish brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements creates a truly memorable seafood experience.

11. Spicy Halibut with Tomato Sauce

Spicy Halibut with Tomato Sauce combines the mild flavor of halibut with a zesty kick. This dish draws inspiration from the tomato-based preparations found in the search results while adding some heat.

Start by searing your halibut fillets in a hot pan until they’re golden on both sides.

In a separate pan, create a spicy tomato sauce with fresh diced tomatoes, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a splash of white wine.

Pour the sauce over your halibut and let it simmer for a few minutes. The fish will absorb the flavors while remaining tender. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preference by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.

12. Honey Soy Glazed Halibut

Honey Soy Glazed Halibut is a quick and flavorful dish that comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The sweet and savory glaze creates a mouthwatering coating that complements the mild flavor of halibut beautifully.

The sauce combines honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for a rich Asian-inspired flavor profile. Many cooks add 4-5 cloves of minced garlic to enhance the taste.

For extra texture, try crusting your halibut with sesame seeds before cooking. The finished dish pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables for a complete meal that’s both impressive and simple to prepare.

13. Blackened Halibut with Pineapple Salsa

Blackened halibut combines bold spices with the fish’s mild flavor for a delicious 20-minute meal. The blackening technique creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and moist.

The vibrant pineapple salsa adds a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy fish. Grilled pineapple brings a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the blackened seasoning.

To make this dish, coat halibut fillets in blackening spice, then sear in a hot pan until just cooked through. Top with fresh pineapple salsa for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.

This recipe offers a balanced combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that will impress your family and guests.

14. Poached Halibut with Saffron Sauce

Poaching halibut in a saffron-infused broth creates a delicate and elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The saffron adds a beautiful golden color and unique flavor to the sauce.

Start by dissolving saffron threads in chicken broth as your poaching liquid. You can add acidity with fresh lime or orange juice to balance the flavors.

For a creamy version, try poaching the halibut and then making a saffron-leek sauce with butter and shallots. This combination enhances the mild flavor of the fish without overpowering it.

Garnish your finished dish with fresh herbs like dill and mint for brightness. This cooking method keeps the halibut moist and tender.

15. Halibut en Papillote with Vegetables

Halibut en Papillote is a French cooking method where fish is baked in parchment paper. This technique seals in moisture and flavor while creating a healthy meal with little cleanup.

Start by placing vegetables like bell peppers on parchment paper. Add the halibut filet on top with a pat of butter and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Fresh herbs like thyme enhance the dish’s flavor profile. You can customize the vegetables based on what’s in season.

Simply fold the parchment paper to seal everything inside, then bake until the fish is perfectly cooked. When served, opening the packet releases a fragrant steam that will impress your dinner guests.

16. Ginger Lime Marinated Halibut

This flavorful marinade brings out the best in halibut’s delicate taste. The combination of ginger and lime creates a bright, refreshing flavor profile that complements the fish perfectly.

To prepare, mix soy sauce, lime juice, crushed garlic, fresh grated ginger, olive oil, and a few drops of sesame oil.

Salt your halibut fillets, then coat them thoroughly with this ginger-lime paste.

Let the fish marinate for about 20 minutes before cooking.

You can bake it at 450°F until flaky or grill it for a smokier flavor.

The zingy acidity from the lime balances the subtle heat from ginger, making this dish both simple and impressive for any meal.

17. Sesame-Crusted Halibut Fillets

Sesame-crusted halibut offers a delightful contrast of textures with its crunchy exterior and tender interior. To prepare this dish, marinate halibut fillets in soy sauce for about 10 minutes.

Mix flour and sesame seeds together in a shallow dish. Dip the marinated fillets in slightly beaten egg white, then coat them with the sesame seed mixture.

Heat butter or olive oil in a pan and cook the coated fillets until golden.

For an oven method, bake at 350°F according to the thickness of your fillets, then broil for the last 3 minutes.

Serve with lemon wedges or a honey soy glaze for extra flavor. The sweet and savory combination works perfectly with the mild halibut.

18. Halibut Chowder with Potatoes

Halibut chowder is a hearty, comforting dish that combines flaky fish with creamy broth and tender potatoes. This seafood classic makes for a satisfying meal on chilly days.

Start by sautéing diced onions in butter until soft, then add minced garlic for flavor.

Cubed potatoes form the base of this chowder, giving it substance and texture.

For the broth, you’ll need about 6 cups of liquid. Adding chunks of halibut near the end prevents overcooking this delicate fish.

Some recipes incorporate smoky bacon for depth of flavor. The finished chowder should be creamy but not too thick, allowing the fresh halibut flavor to shine through.

19. Pan-Fried Halibut with Basil Pesto

Pan-fried halibut with basil pesto is a quick and elegant dish that takes just minutes to prepare. The secret is getting a crispy skin while keeping the fish flaky and moist inside.

Start by heating butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Season your halibut fillets with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot pan, skin-side down.

Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Top with a homemade or store-bought basil pesto for a burst of herby flavor.

The bright, fresh taste of the pesto complements the mild, sweet flavor of halibut perfectly. This dish is impressive enough for company but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

20. Smoky Paprika Halibut

Smoky Paprika Halibut combines rich flavor with simple preparation. The paprika adds a distinct smoky note that complements the mild, flaky texture of halibut perfectly.

To make this dish, start with fresh halibut fillets brushed with melted butter and minced garlic. Then sprinkle with paprika, salt, and black pepper.

You can enhance the flavor by adding fresh paprika chiles and garlic cloves as suggested in some recipes.

The bright red color of paprika not only adds visual appeal but also brings a warm, earthy flavor to the fish.

This dish cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something impressive with minimal effort.

21. Halibut with Creamy White Wine Sauce

This elegant dish combines tender halibut with a rich, flavorful sauce. The creamy white wine sauce complements the mild fish perfectly without overpowering it.

To prepare this recipe, you’ll first sear halibut fillets until they’re golden on both sides. The fish cooks quickly, making this an excellent choice for weeknight dinners.

For the sauce, deglaze the pan with white wine and cook for about 3 minutes to reduce the alcohol. Then add cream and simmer until slightly thickened.

Fresh dill makes a wonderful addition to this sauce.

You can adjust the seasonings to your taste and serve this restaurant-quality meal with your favorite sides.

Nutritional Benefits of Halibut

Halibut is not just delicious – it’s also packed with nutrients that support your health. This lean fish is a protein powerhouse, providing essential building blocks for muscle maintenance and growth.

With its low fat content, halibut makes an excellent choice for heart-healthy meals. It contains omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.

Halibut is rich in important vitamins and minerals. One standout nutrient is Vitamin D, which many people don’t get enough of from food sources.

Key Nutritional Facts About Halibut:

  • High in protein
  • Low in fat
  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
  • Good source of Vitamin D
  • Contains essential minerals

Adding halibut to your diet gives you access to these benefits without adding excessive calories. A typical serving provides substantial protein while keeping fat content minimal.

The omega-3 fatty acids in halibut may help reduce the risk of heart disease. These healthy fats can lower inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.

When you prepare halibut using healthy cooking methods like grilling or baking, you preserve its nutritional value. Simple preparations with lemon, herbs, and olive oil complement the fish’s natural benefits.

Choosing the Perfect Halibut

Selecting quality halibut is crucial for creating delicious meals at home. The right piece of fish can make all the difference in your cooking results, affecting both flavor and texture.

Fresh vs. Frozen Halibut

Fresh halibut should have firm flesh that springs back when touched. Look for clear, bright eyes and red gills if buying a whole fish. The smell should be mild and ocean-like, not fishy or ammonia-scented.

When examining fillets, choose pieces with moist, translucent flesh without browning or drying around the edges. Quality fresh halibut has a clean white color with minimal gaping between the muscle fibers.

Frozen halibut can be excellent when properly handled. Select vacuum-sealed packages without visible ice crystals or freezer burn.

Thaw frozen halibut slowly in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature for best texture.

Sustainable Sourcing

Pacific halibut from Alaska is generally a sustainable choice. Look for the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) blue label which indicates the fish comes from well-managed fisheries.

Atlantic halibut populations have declined significantly, making Pacific varieties the more environmentally responsible option. When shopping, ask your fishmonger about the origin of their halibut.

Many grocery stores now provide information about fishing methods used. Line-caught or hook-and-line halibut is typically more sustainable than those caught using bottom trawling methods, which can damage ocean habitats.

You can also use seafood guides like Seafood Watch to help make informed choices about which halibut to purchase based on current sustainability ratings.

Cooking Techniques for Halibut

Halibut’s delicate flavor and firm texture make it versatile for various cooking methods. The right technique helps preserve moisture while developing flavor in this lean fish.

Grilling Tips

Grilling halibut creates a wonderful smoky flavor while maintaining its tender texture. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) for best results.

Always oil your grill grates well to prevent sticking. Brush the halibut with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice.

For fillets about 1-inch thick, grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid flipping the fish too early – it should release easily when ready to turn.

A fish basket or foil packet can help prevent delicate halibut from falling apart. For extra flavor, try a lemon and herb butter baste during the last minute of cooking.

Watch carefully as halibut can quickly go from perfectly flaky to dry. The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F and flakes easily with a fork.

Baking Guidelines

Baking halibut in the oven provides a foolproof method that keeps the fish moist and flavorful.

To start, preheat your oven to 400-425°F for the best results.

Next, place fillets in a lightly oiled baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and complementary herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary.

Quick Baking Time Chart:

  • Thin fillets (½ inch): 8-10 minutes
  • Medium fillets (1 inch): 10-12 minutes
  • Thick fillets (1½+ inches): 12-15 minutes

For extra moisture, add a splash of white wine, lemon juice, or butter to the baking dish.

You can also create a foil packet to trap steam and keep the fish tender.

Lastly, check for doneness by testing with a fork – the fish should flake easily but still appear moist. Avoid overbaking, as halibut can quickly become dry due to its lean nature.