Baked Fish and Taters: A Crispy, One-Pan Meal Bursting with Flavor
When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a simple sheet pan recipe that’s healthy, hearty, and full of flavor. This Baked Fish and Taters dish is everything you need in one pan—flaky white fish, crispy roasted potatoes, and a touch of lemon and herbs for brightness. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish hits all the marks: it’s comforting yet light, crispy yet tender, and infused with garlicky goodness and fresh thyme. It’s incredibly versatile—you can use cod, haddock, halibut, or even tilapia—and it pairs well with just about any veggie or dipping sauce you like. The layered lemon slices and fresh thyme add a gorgeous finish that’s as fragrant as it is tasty.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless cod fillets (6 to 8 oz each)
- 1 ½ lbs russet potatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme + 1 teaspoon minced thyme
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Swaps and Notes
- Use sweet potatoes for a colorful and slightly sweeter twist.
- Try rosemary or dill in place of thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Add a side of green beans, asparagus, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven & Potatoes
Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss potato slices with olive oil, garlic, minced thyme, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a lined or sprayed baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Roast the Potatoes
Bake the potatoes on the lower-middle rack for 35 minutes until golden and starting to crisp.
3. Season the Fish
Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Top with lemon slices and thyme sprigs.
4. Add the Fish & Bake
Place fish fillets on top of the roasted potatoes. Return to oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips for Success
- Slice the potatoes uniformly for even roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—everything should lay flat to crisp up nicely.
- Want more color? Broil the sheet pan for the last 2 minutes for a golden finish.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Crockpot Nacho Dip – For a creamy appetizer before a light dinner
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – As a fun, cheesy side or follow-up meal
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole – Another cozy, one-pan option for the rotation
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for best texture. The fish may be delicate, but the potatoes re-crisp beautifully!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons – For your next easy appetizer
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – Because dessert should always follow dinner
Final Thoughts
This Baked Fish and Taters recipe is proof that weeknight dinners can be easy, elegant, and absolutely delicious. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you’ve got a balanced, flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! And follow for more one-pan wonders and fuss-free favorites from the ChefManiac kitchen. 🐟🥔🍋
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