Print

Oven Baked Trout

Oven Baked Trout

Oven Baked Trout is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that features tender, flaky fish infused with fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and prep time, delivering a flavorful and nutritious meal rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Suitable for all cooking levels, it can also be customized with various herb and spice variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 whole fresh trout or trout fillets (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or thyme), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Trout: Rinse the trout under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and keeps the skin crisp when baked.
  2. Season Generously: Rub olive oil on both sides of the trout, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. A generous amount of seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the fish.
  3. Add Fresh Flavors: If using whole trout, stuff the cavity with sliced lemon, chopped garlic, and fresh herbs. For fillets, sprinkle these ingredients evenly over the top. This adds moisture and depth of flavor during baking.
  4. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Bake the Trout: Place the trout on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the trout from the oven and let rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful bites. Serve with your choice of garnishes and sides.

Notes

  • Pick fresh trout for the best flavor and texture; buy from a trusted source.
  • Do not overbake; monitor closely as 15–20 minutes is usually ideal.
  • Brush olive oil or a small amount of butter under the skin to help retain moisture and achieve crispy skin.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, thyme, parsley, or tarragon for varied flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked trout, healthy fish recipe, baked trout with herbs, easy fish dinner, omega-3 fish dish, gluten free fish recipe