Are you in search of a quick fish dinner that feels luxurious yet does not require a lengthy preparation time? Allow me to introduce this simple broiled mahi mahi! With its perfectly flaky texture and a golden, bubbling parmesan-butter topping, this dish serves as an effortless weeknight meal while also being sophisticated enough for a date night or dinner gathering.
Erica’s Insights
Indeed, white fish is a superb source of lean protein, a fact that has been emphasized by fitness enthusiasts. However, what they often fail to demonstrate is how to transform a protein that is typically lean and bland into something utterly delectable and desirable. Mahi Mahi, along with other white fish, simply requires a bit of affection!
Thus, here is our approach to enhance and infuse flavor, if you will:
Broil, my friends. Utilizing high heat for a brief period seals in moisture and prevents this lean fish from becoming dry.
Generously apply to retain moisture. The combination of mayonnaise and butter aids in locking in moisture while imparting excellent flavor to the fish.
Basic seasonings. Salty parmesan becomes bubbly and golden brown on top, contributing a wealth of flavor.
The other night, my husband and I intended to enjoy Dungeness crab for a little seafood date night after the girls were asleep. Unfortunately, the crab appeared questionable at the store, so we decided against it. We returned home, Ka-La put the girls to bed, and I prepared this simple, broiled mahi mahi! I paired it with my balsamic asparagus and favorite garlic bread, and voilà. We enjoyed it on the couch while watching Severance, which is about as romantic as our lives get these days, LOL.
However, it was truly delightful. This dish is destined to become a staple in our regular meal rotation! It is remarkable how such a straightforward recipe can feel so elegant.
What You Will Require to Prepare Broiled Mahi Mahi
picture of the ingredients needed to make the recipe
Mahi mahi fillets: Mahi mahi is a lean fish characterized by its firm texture and mild flavor. I prefer to purchase wild-caught mahi mahi. I find the individually wrapped fillets in the frozen section at Costco (or any standard grocery store). If you have access to fresh mahi mahi, that is even more preferable!
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: These simple yet vital seasonings enhance the fish's natural flavor without overwhelming it.
Butter: We utilize butter for its flavor and combine it with mayonnaise to raise its smoke point (as we are cooking at high temperatures). I opt for salted butter, but unsalted butter can be used if that is what you have available.
Mayonnaise: Mayo, being oil-based, is excellent for retaining moisture in proteins due to its high fat content. I prefer avocado oil mayo or kewpie mayo.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan contributes a savory, bubbly finish that enhances the dish. I have mentioned this before, and I will reiterate, purchase the block and grate it yourself! The flavor is significantly superior, and it melts more effectively.
Equipment: A large baking sheet is necessary, and I strongly recommend using a silicone baking mat. It is crucial that the baking sheet is lined, but not with parchment paper, as it will burn under broiling conditions. If a reusable mat is unavailable, foil can be used instead. A broiler pan is also an option.
How to Prepare Broiled Mahi Mahi
Start by positioning your oven rack in the upper third of the oven, typically the second notch down, and preheat your broiler to approximately 550°F. Line a large baking tray with a silicone mat or aluminum foil for straightforward cleanup (avoid using parchment paper, as it cannot endure the high heat).
Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry using a paper towel, then season them with a small amount of salt and freshly cracked pepper before arranging them in a single layer on the baking sheet. In a separate small bowl, utilize a fork to blend the softened butter, mayonnaise, and parmesan cheese until they are thoroughly mixed. Apply this rich mixture generously over all sides of the fish, ensuring complete coverage.
Broil the fish until it attains an internal temperature of 140°F, which should take approximately 5 to 6 minutes. The topping should appear beautifully browned and bubbly, and the fish should flake easily when tested with a fork. If your fillets exceed a thickness of about half an inch, roast them at 425°F for 5 minutes initially, then switch to the broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to complete the cooking process.
fish, asparagus and bread on a plate, fork and napkin, jar of ice water and basket of bread flaked mahi mahi fish with a bite on a fork
Serve the dish hot, accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and your choice of side dishes. For a gathering, arrange the fish fillets on a serving platter and adorn them with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon slices.
Variation Ideas
Dried seasonings: consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or any preferred dried seasonings to the parmesan butter mixture if desired.
Herbal freshness: remember to sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill over the finished fish!
Type of fish: this recipe works wonderfully with nearly any type of fish. Consider trying halibut, cod, salmon, or trout. Cooking times may vary based on the type of fish used.
Expert Tips
Keep a close eye: Broilers can differ by oven—remain in the kitchen to prevent burning the topping.
Soft is key: Ensure the butter is adequately softened to blend smoothly with the mayonnaise and parmesan.
Pat dry: Properly drying the fish is essential for the topping to adhere and to avoid steaming.
Don’t overcook: The mahi mahi is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. This typically took me 5 minutes under the broiler, but refer to the recipe notes for guidance if you have thicker fillets.
Preheat the broiler: Ensure that you do not place your fish in the oven until the broiler has reached the desired temperature. Failing to do so may result in inaccurate cooking times.
What accompaniments pair well with broiled mahi mahi?
Balsamic asparagus
The finest garlic bread
Roasted sweet potatoes and carrots
Smashed fingerling potatoes
Green salad featuring roasted squash and burrata
A close-up image of a piece of mahi mahi fish garnished with a broiled parmesan butter blend.
FAQs
Is it possible to use frozen mahi mahi fillets?
Yes, simply thaw them thoroughly in the refrigerator or in a large bowl of cool water, and then pat them dry prior to seasoning.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any remaining fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350 degrees for 5-6 minutes.
Can I substitute with a different type of fish?
Certainly. Salmon, cod, or halibut can be deliciously prepared using this technique.
If you enjoy this nutritious meal, you will also appreciate these other simple recipes!
- Miso butter salmon
- Garlic sweet chili shrimp
- Blackened mahi mahi fish tacos
- Mexican tuna salad
- Ahi tuna ceviche
- Cilantro lime shrimp tacos
Whether it’s a hectic weeknight, a cozy date night at home, or a dinner gathering for friends, I am confident that you will enjoy this mahi mahi recipe!
Notes
Most mahi mahi fillets are relatively thin (mine were ½-inch), but if you possess a thicker cut of fish, you may need to extend the initial roasting time by 1-2 minutes.
My broiler operates at a single setting of 550 degrees F. If your broiler has high and low settings, select the one that is closest to 550 degrees (most likely the high setting). Keep in mind that all ovens vary, so monitor the cooking process closely!
I prefer to keep this recipe quite simple, allowing the flavors of butter and parmesan to stand out. However, you can certainly incorporate a teaspoon or so of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or your preferred seasoning into the parmesan butter mixture.
Fish and Seafood Recipe Ingredients:
* 1 pound dolphin (mahi-mahi) or other firm-fleshed fish fillets
* Juice of 1 lemon
* 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon pepper
* 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Fish and Seafood Recipe Instructions:
* In broiler pan lined with foil, lay dolphin fillets.
* Pour lemon juice over fish.
* Sprinkle with pepper and parsley.
* Marinate in refrigerator 1 to 2 hours, not covered.
* When ready to prepare, sprinkle paprika on fish and broil 8 to 10 minutes.
* Fish should appear golden.
* 1 pound dolphin (mahi-mahi) or other firm-fleshed fish fillets
* Juice of 1 lemon
* 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon pepper
* 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Fish and Seafood Recipe Instructions:
* In broiler pan lined with foil, lay dolphin fillets.
* Pour lemon juice over fish.
* Sprinkle with pepper and parsley.
* Marinate in refrigerator 1 to 2 hours, not covered.
* When ready to prepare, sprinkle paprika on fish and broil 8 to 10 minutes.
* Fish should appear golden.
