Haddock is one of those fish that might not get as much attention as salmon or tuna, but once you try it, you’ll wonder why it’s been flying under the radar for so long. But how to cook haddock actually? I first cooked haddock when I was looking for a simple, light dinner option, and I was hooked (pun intended)! 

This lean, mild white fish is easy to prepare and cooks quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to cook haddock, whether you’re grilling, baking, or searing it. Let’s get started!

Why Should You Cook Haddock?

Haddock is often underappreciated in the world of fish, but it’s a true gem. This mild-flavored fish has a flaky texture that can be paired with various seasonings, making it versatile enough to fit into any meal. It’s also a healthier option as it’s low in fat and high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned pro, haddock is an easy, delicious choice that fits perfectly into a healthy eating plate.

Top 3 Best Ways to Cook Haddock

The best way to cook haddock depends on what you’re in the mood for. Are you craving something crispy and golden? Try pan-searing it. Want to bake it in the oven with a delicious topping? Baking it could be your best bet. For a quick and smoky finish, broiling is your go-to method. Here are the top ways to cook haddock:

1. How to Grill Haddock: A Smoky Delight

Grilling haddock is a fun and easy way to infuse a smoky flavor into the fish. It’s perfect for summer cookouts or when you want that “outdoor” feel indoors.

1. Prep the Haddock: Pat your haddock fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to avoid the fish becoming mushy and ensures better seasoning.
   
2. Season the Fish: Brush the fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you love. Lemon zest or thyme can add a refreshing touch.
   
3. Grill It: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. The fish should easily flake with a fork when done.
   
4. Serve: Serve with grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Grilled haddock is especially flavorful when paired with lemon and fresh herbs. The grill marks give it an irresistible smoky finish, and the fish remains flaky and tender.

2. How to Bake Haddock: Easy and Delicious

Baking haddock is the most popular method because it’s simple, low-maintenance, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re baking it plain or adding a topping, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) for a simple bake or 400°F (200°C) if you’re adding a crispy topping.
   
2. Prepare the Haddock: Grease a baking dish and place your haddock fillets inside. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
   
3. Add Toppings (Optional): For a New England-style bake, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers and some parsley on top of the fillets. The buttery topping will bake to a crispy golden brown.
   
4. Bake the Haddock: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
   
5. Serve: Pair with roasted potatoes or steamed veggies for a hearty meal.

Baked haddock is perfect for those who want an effortless dish with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different seasonings or toppings.

3. How to Pan-Sear Haddock: A Crispy, Flavorful Finish

Pan-searing haddock is a quick way to achieve a golden, crispy crust while keeping the fish tender inside. This method is ideal if you’re looking for something fast and flavorful.

1. Prep the Haddock: Pat the fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for some smoky flavor.
   
2. Heat the Pan: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
   
3. Sear the Haddock: Place the fillets in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes per side. When flipping, use a spatula to gently turn the fillet to prevent it from falling apart.
   
4. Add Butter: In the final minute of cooking, add a knob of butter and crushed garlic to the pan. Baste the fish with the melted butter to add extra flavor.
   
5. Serve: Serve your pan-seared haddock with a squeeze of lemon and a side of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables.

This method creates a delicious, crispy texture without overwhelming the fish’s natural flavor. It’s the perfect balance of light and hearty.

How to Cook Haddock: Quick and Simple Methods

Learning how to cook haddock is quite easy if you go by these easy methods: 

What Is the Best Way to Cook Haddock?

Haddock can be prepared in several ways, but it’s essential to follow a few basic rules to get the best results. Whether you’re baking, grilling, or pan-searing, remember to always pat your fillets dry before cooking to ensure they don’t become mushy. Haddock is a delicate fish, and you want to keep that flaky texture intact. If you have a fillet with a thinner tail end, simply fold it under to ensure even cooking.

Can I Cook Haddock from Frozen?

Yes, you can! In fact, frozen haddock is often fresher and more affordable than its “fresh” counterpart. If you’re cooking frozen haddock, just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. If you don’t have time to thaw, baking or pan-searing it directly from frozen will still work, though it will take a few extra minutes to cook.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Haddock?

The cooking time for haddock depends on the method. For grilling or pan-searing, it usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. If you’re baking it, it’ll take around 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The key to perfectly cooked haddock is making sure the fish flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How Do I Know When Haddock Is Done?

Haddock is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or when it flakes easily with a fork. It’s a delicate fish, so it’s best to check it frequently to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I Use Haddock in Fish Tacos?

Absolutely! Haddock is a fantastic choice for fish tacos. It’s mild, flaky, and holds up well to all the flavorful toppings like cabbage slaw, avocado, and tangy salsa. Just cook it however you like—grilled, baked, or seared—and load up your tacos with your favorite ingredients.

3. What Can I Serve with Haddock?

Haddock pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a lighter option, try pairing it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, serve it with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a creamy risotto.

Let’s Make Cooking Haddock a Habit!

There you have it—a complete guide on how to cook haddock! Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, haddock is a versatile and delicious fish that anyone can master. It’s healthy, quick, and works well with a variety of seasonings and sides. I hope this guide encourages you to try something new in the kitchen and make haddock a staple in your meal planning.

Pro Tip: If you’re cooking haddock for the first time, keep it simple. A squeeze of lemon, a dash of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil go a long way. The fish’s delicate flavor speaks for itself, and you don’t need to overcomplicate it.

So grab some haddock, fire up your stove or grill, and get cooking! You’ll be hooked in no time