Easy Parmesan Panko Flounder: A Crispy 25-Minute Seafood Dinner

Crispy Baked Flounder with Parmesan Panko Crust

Transform delicate flounder fillets into a restaurant-quality dinner with this simple yet elegant recipe. The mild, sweet flavor of flounder pairs perfectly with a crispy, buttery Parmesan panko topping that creates the perfect contrast to the tender fish beneath. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Flounder Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of delicate white fish and a crunchy topping. Here’s why this flounder dish deserves a place in your regular rotation:

• Quick to prepare – From fridge to table in under 30 minutes
• Family-friendly – The crispy coating makes fish appealing to even picky eaters
• Nutritionally balanced – High in protein with a moderate amount of healthy fats
• Versatile – Easy to pair with various sides for a complete meal
• Budget-friendly – Flounder is often more affordable than other seafood options

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Baked Flounder

• 4 flounder fillets (about 4 ounces each)
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Flounder

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large, shallow baking dish.
2. Pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
3. Season the fish with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
5. In a separate small bowl, combine the melted butter and lemon juice.
6. Brush the top of each flounder fillet with the butter-lemon mixture.
7. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the fillets, pressing gently to adhere. Drizzle any remaining butter over the breadcrumb topping.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
9. If desired, broil for the last 1-2 minutes to get an extra crispy topping, watching carefully to prevent burning.
10. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Expert Tips for the Best Baked Flounder

Having prepared this dish countless times, I’ve gathered some helpful insights to ensure your flounder turns out perfectly every time:

• Fresh is best – While frozen flounder will work, fresh fillets will give you the most delicate texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the pat-dry step – Removing excess moisture helps the breadcrumb mixture stick better and ensures a crispy finish.
• Watch the cooking time – Flounder cooks quickly, and overcooked fish becomes tough and rubbery. Begin checking at the 10-minute mark.
• Panko substitution – Regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko creates a lighter, crispier texture that’s worth seeking out.
• Make it ahead – Prepare the breadcrumb mixture up to a day in advance and store in an airtight container for even quicker dinner prep.

Perfect Side Dishes for Flounder

Complete your meal with these complementary sides that pair beautifully with baked flounder:

• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Lemon herb rice pilaf
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Simple garden salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon
• Herb-roasted baby potatoes

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Flounder

Can I use a different fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! This crispy topping works wonderfully with other mild white fish like sole, tilapia, or cod. Just adjust your cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

How do I know when flounder is cooked through?

Flounder is cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Since it’s a thin fish, this typically happens in 12-15 minutes at 400°F.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, which are widely available at most grocery stores.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover flounder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through to help restore some crispiness to the topping.

Why Flounder Should Be Your Go-To Weeknight Fish

Flounder remains one of the most versatile and approachable seafood options for home cooks. Its mild flavor makes it perfect for those who don’t typically enjoy “fishy” flavors, while its delicate texture creates a lovely contrast with crispy coatings. This particular baked flounder recipe transforms an everyday ingredient into a meal that feels special enough for company but simple enough for a Tuesday night. Give this crispy baked flounder a try, and it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy this delicious fish!

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes