Crispy Baked Alaska Pollock Recipe

Golden, crispy, and bursting with lemony goodness, this Crispy Baked Alaska Pollock is the perfect quick and easy dinner. With just 7 simple ingredients and 15 minutes, you’ll have a flaky, flavorful fish dish that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home, this recipe delivers without the mess of frying. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy

This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy nights.

Crispy & Flavorful

The panko breadcrumbs create a light, crunchy coating, while lemon zest and Parmesan add a punch of fresh, savory goodness.

Healthy & Oven-Baked

Baking instead of frying means less oil while still achieving that golden, crispy texture.

Versatile

Don’t have Alaska pollock? Swap it for cod, haddock, or another mild white fish.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 2 Alaska pollock fillets (skinless & boneless) – Can substitute with cod or haddock
• Sea salt & cracked black pepper – To season the fish
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps the breading stick
• 1 egg, beaten – The “glue” that holds the breadcrumbs together
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Gives the best crunch, but Italian or homemade breadcrumbs work too
• 2 TBSP grated Parmesan cheese – Adds umami and depth. Romano cheese also works
• 1 tsp Italian herbs – A flavorful blend of basil, oregano, and thyme
• 1 medium lemon – Zested for flavor and cut into wedges for serving

Substitutions & Notes

• Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs
• Dairy-Free? Skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast
• Egg-Free? Dip the fish in milk instead of egg

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F
• Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside
• Set up a breading station with three shallow trays or pie plates—one for flour, one for a beaten egg, and one for breadcrumbs. Mix the grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning into the breadcrumbs
• Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper

• Dredge each fillet one by one in the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet
• Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for about 8-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check
• Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges for spritzing

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Pat the fish dry before breading to help the coating stick better
• Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest texture
• Zest the lemon finely for the best citrus flavor without bitterness

Common Mistakes

• Overbaking the fish will make it dry. Keep an eye on the temperature and remove as soon as it reaches 145°F
• Skipping the flour layer can cause the breading to slide off. Make sure to coat the fish in flour first
• Using regular breadcrumbs instead of panko may result in a less crispy crust

Time-Saving Tips

• Prep the breading station ahead of time for a quicker cooking process
• Use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor without extra steps
• Make a large batch and freeze the breaded fillets before baking for an easy future meal

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

This crispy baked pollock goes well with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. For an easy, carb-friendly side, consider making Sheet Pan Gnocchi for a perfect balance of textures.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fillets on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright, inviting dish. For added crunch, top with extra grated Parmesan before serving.

Beverage Pairings

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the light and flaky texture of the fish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a citrus-infused sparkling water or iced green tea works beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If freezing, wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 3-4 minutes for the best texture
• Microwave: Use short 20-second bursts, but note that this may make the breading soggy

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the fish fillets in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if my fish turns out dry?

Make sure not to overbake the fillets. Using a meat thermometer ensures the perfect texture without drying out.

Can I pan-fry this instead of baking?

Absolutely! Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• For a keto version, use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and almond flour instead of all-purpose flour
• Make it dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan or replacing it with nutritional yeast
• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free panko and flour substitutes

Flavor Twists

• Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for extra spice
• Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun or Old Bay seasoning for a different flavor profile
• Drizzle with honey and Dijon mustard for a tangy glaze before baking

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• In summer, serve with fresh mango salsa for a tropical twist
• In winter, pair with roasted Brussels sprouts and creamy mashed potatoes for a cozy meal
• For a festive holiday dinner, serve alongside Creamy Chicken Marsala

Conclusion

This crispy baked Alaska pollock recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and comes together in just minutes. Whether you serve it with fresh vegetables, pasta, or salad, it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen.

If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your photos with us on Pinterest at Cooking with Callie. We’d love to see your creations!

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