Baked Fish Rice Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that brings together comforting flavors, vibrant colors, and nourishing ingredients all in one, Baked Fish Rice is a must-try! This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is a celebration of tender white fish, fluffy rice, and a medley of spices and veggies, all baked to perfection. It’s one of those meals that feels both special enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a cozy weeknight. Whether you’re new to fish and rice casseroles or already a fan, Baked Fish Rice is guaranteed to become a new favorite at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Baked Fish Rice is how simple the ingredient list is, yet each item plays a crucial role in building flavor, color, and texture. Don’t skip any—every component is a building block to the final, irresistible result!
- Long-grain white rice: The perfect base, as it cooks up fluffy and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- Water or fish stock: Fish stock adds even more depth, but water works beautifully for a lighter touch.
- Olive oil: Brings a Mediterranean richness and helps sauté the veggies to golden perfection.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a gentle savory note that infuses every bite.
- Garlic: Essential for that subtle aromatic kick—don’t be shy!
- Bell pepper: Brings color, crunch, and a slight sweetness to the dish.
- Paprika: Infuses a smoky warmth that pairs wonderfully with fish.
- Turmeric: Adds a golden hue and earthy undertone that makes the rice pop.
- Salt: Just enough to bring all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: For a bit of gentle heat and balance.
- White fish fillets (cod or tilapia): Mild, flaky, and perfect for absorbing flavors—choose your favorite!
- Lemon juice: A fresh squeeze lifts the entire dish and pairs beautifully with the fish.
- Fresh parsley: The final flourish for color and a pop of herby freshness.
- Lemon wedges: Serve on the side for an extra burst of brightness at the table.
How to Make Baked Fish Rice
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, gather and prep all your ingredients—this makes cooking so much smoother! Rinse and drain the rice, chop the veggies, and cut your fish fillets into chunky, generous bites. Taking a few minutes for prep ensures everything comes together effortlessly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion first and let it cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, letting them sizzle until fragrant. This step is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing!
Step 3: Spice and Toast the Rice
Sprinkle in the paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the veggies. Add the rinsed rice, tossing everything together so the grains get coated in that beautiful, golden spice mixture. This quick toasting gives your Baked Fish Rice an even deeper flavor.
Step 4: Simmer, Then Transfer
Pour in the water or fish stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This kick-starts the rice’s cooking and lets all the flavors meld. Remove from heat and get ready to layer!
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the rice mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Arrange the fish chunks over the top, making sure they’re nestled in but still visible. Drizzle with lemon juice for that bright, zesty touch. Cover tightly with foil to keep in all the steam and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
Step 6: Rest, Fluff, and Garnish
When your Baked Fish Rice comes out of the oven, let it rest (foil still on) for 5 minutes. This little pause lets everything finish steaming and makes the rice extra fluffy. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, sprinkle with loads of fresh parsley, and get ready to serve with lemon wedges on the side!
How to Serve Baked Fish Rice
Garnishes
A generous shower of chopped fresh parsley and a few extra lemon wedges are all you need to make Baked Fish Rice look and taste incredible. If you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil adds another layer of flavor and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your Baked Fish Rice with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, some roasted seasonal veggies, or a simple cucumber-yogurt raita for a refreshing contrast. Warm crusty bread is always welcome to soak up every last flavorful grain.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bowls for a dinner party, or try molding the rice into a ring and piling the fish in the center for a show-stopping centerpiece. A family-style platter with extra herbs and lemon is always a hit, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Fish Rice is a gift for tomorrow’s lunch! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as tasty, if not more, the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze Baked Fish Rice for up to one month. Make sure to cool it first, then portion into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place your portion in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until hot. A splash of water or stock helps keep the rice moist. You can also use the microwave—just cover and heat gently to keep the fish tender.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and needs more liquid. Add about 1/2 cup extra stock or water and increase the baking time by 15–20 minutes, checking for doneness.
What types of fish work best for Baked Fish Rice?
Mild, flaky white fish like cod, tilapia, haddock, or even halibut are all wonderful choices. They absorb the spices beautifully and bake to tender perfection.
Can I add more veggies to the dish?
Definitely! Peas, cherry tomatoes, olives, or even spinach can be stirred in before baking. These add extra color, flavor, and nutrition to your Baked Fish Rice.
How do I know when the fish is done?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you’re unsure, check the thickest pieces—if they separate without resistance, you’re good to go!
Is Baked Fish Rice gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check your stock and spices to make sure they’re certified gluten-free if needed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, Baked Fish Rice is one of those dishes that feels both special and effortless. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new go-to comfort meal!
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Baked Fish Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Fish Rice is a flavorful and wholesome Mediterranean-inspired one-pan meal featuring tender white fish fillets baked over spiced long-grain rice. It’s an easy and comforting dish that combines aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon, perfect for a nutritious family dinner.
Ingredients
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 1 ½ cups water or fish stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fish and Garnish
- 12 oz white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the fish and rice dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
- Add Rice and Liquid: Stir the rinsed rice into the saucepan, coating it evenly with the spiced vegetable mixture. Pour in the water or fish stock and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat.
- Combine and Bake: Transfer the partially cooked rice mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Arrange the chunks of white fish evenly over the rice and drizzle the lemon juice on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake Until Done: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice in place of white rice, but be sure to increase both the liquid amount and baking time to ensure the rice cooks through completely.
- For extra flavor and texture, consider adding vegetables such as peas, cherry tomatoes, or olives to the rice mixture before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
