Baked Croaker Fish with Garlic Lemon Butter

This baked croaker fish recipe is simple, light, and packed with flavor. The croaker’s delicate white flesh is enhanced with a garlic lemon butter sauce and fresh herbs, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat. Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 2 whole croaker fish (cleaned and scaled, about 1 lb each)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
• Lemon slices (for stuffing)
• Olive oil spray (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper.
2. Clean and score the fish: Make 2–3 diagonal slits on each side of the fish.
3. Season the fish inside and out with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Make the garlic butter: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and thyme.
5. Brush the fish generously with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to get it into the slits and the cavity.
6. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices and a few herb sprigs.
7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the skin is lightly golden.
8. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley.