Breaded Flounder

Fried fish is a New England classic. You can find the tender bites in platters packed with crispy shrimp, scallops, onion rings, and creamy tartar sauce. These breaded flounder fillets typically appear in baskets filled with fried foods, but this recipe takes a different approach and bakes them instead. They still have a crunchy coating with a tender and flaky inside despite this cooking technique. The nice part? They take less than 20 minutes to make.

Breaded Flounder Fillet Ingredients

• Batter: We create a dry batter with all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, paprika and pepper. In another bowl, we combine milk and whisked egg whites. We alternate between the dry and wet mixture to coat this fish before baking.
• Flounder: We use flounder because it’s a mildly flavored fish that absorbs flavor quickly.
• Parmesan: We grate Parmesan on top to give it a savory kick before baking the fish.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the flounder fillets

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, paprika and pepper in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, beat the egg whites and milk. Coat the fish with the cornmeal mixture and then dip the fillets into the egg white mixture. Coat the fish again in the cornmeal mixture.

Arrange the fish in a single layer on a 15x10x1-inch baking pan coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle the fillets with Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Bake the flounder

Bake the flounder fillets uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Breaded Flounder Fillet Recipe Variations

• Spice up the batter: To enhance the flavors of these flounder fillets, add Cajun seasoning to the batter.
• Add herbs: To give these crispy flounder fillets an aromatic flavor, add minced parsley to the batter before baking.
• Make it garlicky: Give these flounder fillets an umami and savory kick by mixing garlic into the batter.

How to Store Breaded Flounder Fillets

These breaded flounder fillets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for one to two days.

Can you make these breaded flounder fillets ahead of time?

These breaded flounder fillets can add a delicious touch to your meals. You can crumble them in salads, nestle them in sandwiches or enjoy them with rice or pasta. Prepare a batch and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for one to two days and then reheat them when you’re ready to eat.

Can you freeze breaded flounder fillets?

Freezing these breaded flounder fillets is not recommended because it may compromise their taste and texture when thawed.

How long do breaded flounder fillets last?

You can store them in the fridge for one to two days if you have breaded flounder fillets left.

Breaded Flounder Fillet Tips

Can I use a different fish for this breaded flounder fillet recipe?

While we recommend flounder, you can substitute it with another mild fish like haddock, cod or Dover sole. You may need more or less time baking it depending on the type, so monitor it to avoid overcooking your fish.

Is this breaded flounder fillet recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free but you can make a few simple swaps to enjoy it if you have a gluten intolerance. We recommend switching the all-purpose flour to a gluten-free mix. (Here is a recipe for gluten-free flour.)

What can I serve alongside breaded flounder fillets?

You can pair these flounder fillets with various delicious sides to create a complete meal. Serve it with a starchy dish such as fluffy rice, mashed potatoes or baked sweet potato. Alternatively, pair it with a flavorful vegetable such as garlicky spinach, spicy kale or summery zucchini.