Easy and Delicious Broiled Halibut Recipe – Perfect Every Time

by Oleg Nikitenko January 18, 2025

Broiled Halibut with Lemon Butter: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Gourmet Meal

Broiled halibut with lemon butter is a simple yet elegant seafood dish that can elevate any meal. Known for its tender, flaky texture and mild flavor, halibut is a versatile fish that shines with minimal seasoning. Adding a rich lemon butter sauce with capers creates a dish that is light, zesty, and irresistibly flavorful.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the details of how to prepare broiled halibut, including tips, tricks, and variations to help you perfect this recipe and impress your guests or family.

What Makes Broiled Halibut Special?

Halibut is one of the most popular fish choices for both beginner and experienced home chefs. Its mild taste makes it a blank canvas for a wide range of flavors, while its firm texture ensures it holds up to different cooking methods, including broiling.

Benefits of Cooking Halibut Under a Broiler:

Quick and Efficient: Broiling cooks the halibut in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Locks in Moisture: The high heat of the broiler seals the surface, preventing the fish from drying out.
Enhances Flavor: The slight browning from broiling adds a subtle, smoky depth to the halibut.

Ingredients for Broiled Halibut with Lemon Butter

This easy recipe focuses on fresh, simple ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the halibut.

Main Ingredients:

4 halibut fillets (6 oz each) – Fresh or frozen (thawed overnight)
2 tablespoons olive oil – For brushing the fillets
Salt and black pepper – To season the fillets

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the dish
Juice of 1 fresh lemon – Provides a tangy, citrusy flavor
2 tablespoons capers – Adds briny, savory notes
Optional: Chopped parsley or dill for garnish

How to Broil Halibut: A Detailed Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to broil on high.
Position the rack 4–6 inches below the heating element to ensure even cooking and browning.

2. Season the Halibut

Rinse the halibut fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning.

3. Broil the Halibut

Arrange the fillets on a broiling pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Broil the fillets for 5–6 minutes on the first side, or until the edges begin to brown.
Flip the fillets carefully using a spatula and broil for another 4–5 minutes.

Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the halibut reaches an internal temperature of 130°F, the perfect doneness for tender, moist fish.

4. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the halibut is broiling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add the lemon juice and capers, stirring to combine.
Reduce heat to low and keep the sauce warm until ready to serve.

5. Serve the Broiled Halibut

Transfer the broiled halibut to a serving platter or individual plates.
Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce generously over each fillet.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for added color and flavor.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Broiled Halibut

1. Avoid Overcooking:

Halibut is a lean fish and can dry out if overcooked. Use a timer and a thermometer to monitor cooking time closely.

2. Opt for High-Quality Halibut:

For the best flavor and texture, choose wild-caught Alaskan halibut. Explore options like:

3. Experiment with Flavors:

Add fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon to the lemon butter sauce for a more complex flavor profile.

Side Dish Pairings for Broiled Halibut

Complement the light, flaky halibut with these delicious and healthy side dishes:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy texture and garlicky flavor pair beautifully with the richness of the lemon butter sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasting asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

3. Wild Rice Pilaf

The nutty flavor of wild rice adds an earthy contrast to the bright citrus flavors of the dish.

Nutritional Highlights of Halibut

Why Choose Halibut for a Healthy Diet?

Low in Calories: A 6 oz serving has just 180 calories.
High in Protein: Each fillet contains approximately 36 grams of protein.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
Packed with Micronutrients: Halibut is a great source of vitamin D, selenium, and magnesium.

FAQs About Broiling Halibut

1. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftover broiled halibut in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or steamer to avoid drying out.

2. Can I use frozen halibut?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight before broiling.

3. What herbs go best with halibut?

Parsley, dill, thyme, and tarragon are all excellent choices for enhancing halibut’s natural flavors.

4. How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

This recipe is naturally keto-friendly! Pair it with a low-carb side like roasted broccoli or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Broiled Halibut

Broiled halibut is a versatile and healthy seafood option that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its tender, flaky texture and the tangy richness of lemon butter, this dish is perfect for both casual dinners and elegant occasions. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.