Elevate your seafood dinners with this Potato Crusted Halibut with Tartar Sauce recipe. Combining tender, flaky halibut with a golden, crispy potato crust, this dish offers a delightful texture contrast that’s sure to impress. Paired with a tangy, homemade tartar sauce, it’s a deliciously balanced meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
This recipe is easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Halibut and Crust
- Four halibut fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Two large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- One teaspoon salt, divided
- Half teaspoon black pepper, divided
- One teaspoon garlic powder
- Two tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Two large eggs, beaten
- Two tablespoons olive oil
- Two tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Tartar Sauce
- Half cup mayonnaise
- Two tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles or relish
- One tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- One teaspoon Dijon mustard
- One tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the potatoes using the coarse side of a box grater.
- Place grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. This ensures a crisp crust.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
- In a medium bowl, combine grated potatoes with half teaspoon salt, a quarter teaspoon pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Halibut
- Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and season with remaining salt and pepper.
Step 4: Coat the Fillets
- Dredge each fillet lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip fillets into beaten eggs, then press firmly into the seasoned grated potatoes to coat all sides evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Halibut
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the coated fillets in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until the potato crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 6: Prepare the Tartar Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and parsley.
- Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 7: Serve
- Plate the potato-crusted halibut and spoon tartar sauce over the top or serve on the side.
- Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley for a bright finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
- Pair with buttery mashed potatoes or wild rice for a hearty meal.
- Complement with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 fillet with sauce) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 38 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 480 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Halibut provides lean, high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Potato crust offers satisfying texture and complex carbohydrates.
- Homemade tartar sauce adds flavor with controlled ingredients and healthy fats.
- This balanced meal supports muscle maintenance and provides essential nutrients.
Tips for Success
- Squeeze out as much moisture from the grated potatoes as possible to achieve a crispy crust.
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron for even cooking and easy flipping.
- Avoid flipping the fillets too often to maintain crust integrity.
- For a lighter crust, bake the coated fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations to Try
- Substitute halibut with cod, haddock, or other firm white fish.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the potato mixture for extra aroma.
- Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, colorful crust.
- Spice up the tartar sauce with a teaspoon of hot sauce or horseradish.
Potato Crusted Halibut with Tartar Sauce is an elegant yet approachable dish that brings crispy textures and bright flavors together beautifully. Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions, it’s a recipe that combines comfort and sophistication with ease.
Try this recipe to impress your family or guests with a perfectly cooked seafood entrée that’s both delicious and nutritious.