Easy Baking Fish in Foil: Tender Trout with Lemon and Herbs in 15 Minutes

Master the Art of Baking Fish in Foil for Tender, Flavorful Fillets

Baking fish in foil locks in moisture and aroma, delivering perfect trout every time. No fishy odors, just pure, juicy flavor wrapped in a simple packet.

Fish in Foil: An Easy American Dinner

Baked fish in foil is foolproof for tender, tasty fish every time. Try it with fresh trout, jalapeños, lemon, and herbs for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal.

Why Baking Fish in Foil Is a Game Changer

• Moisture Retention: En papillote style keeps fish succulent.
• Flavor Infusion: Herbs, citrus, and spices meld perfectly.
• Easy Cleanup: Foil packets mean no pans to scrub.
• Versatility: Use any fillet—trout, salmon, tilapia.

Ingredients for Perfect Foil-Baked Trout

• 2 rainbow trout fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pats
• 2 sprigs fresh dill or parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Fish in Foil

1. Preheat: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or a second layer of foil for easy removal.
2. Prepare Packets: Tear two 12×12-inch sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Brush the center of each with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Season Fillets: Place a trout fillet skin-side down in each foil piece. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with lemon slices, jalapeño rounds, herbs, and pats of butter.
4. Seal Foil: Fold long sides over fish, then fold ends into tight seams—creating a sealed packet that traps steam.
5. Bake: Transfer packets to the prepared sheet and bake 12–15 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Rest & Serve: Carefully open packets (steam alert!). Slide fish onto plates, spooning pan juices over top. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon zest.

Tips & Variations for Foil-Baked Fish

Flavor Boosters

• Swap jalapeño for thinly sliced bell pepper for mild heat.
• Add a splash of white wine or soy sauce to the packet juices.
• Fresh ginger and garlic make an Asian-inspired twist.

Make-Ahead Meal

Assemble foil packets up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerate, then bake right before dinner—perfect for busy weeknights.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

• Calories: 213 kcal
• Protein: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fat: 11 g (Saturated Fat: 2 g)
• Cholesterol: 67 mg | Sodium: 1850 mg
• Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 0 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before assembling packets.

How do I know when it’s done?

Fish is done when it flakes easily and reaches 145°F internally.

Enjoy your perfectly sealed, aromatic dinner! Baking fish in foil has never been easier or more delicious.

Original recipe adaptation: Allrecipes Fish in Foil