As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting dinner to cozy up to. And what better way to do that than with a delicious fish dish? This season, we’re trading in our light and breezy summer seafood for hearty, autumnal favorites that are sure to satisfy. From sweet potatoes to butternut squash, apples to cranberries, the flavors of fall are the perfect match for the rich, flaky flesh of fish.
In this article, we’ll share 18 cozy fall fish recipes that will keep you warm and full all season long. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like maple glazed salmon or adventurous like pumpkin spice crusted halibut, we’ve got you covered. So grab a sweater, put on your favorite fall playlist, and get ready to dive into the coziest fish recipes of the year.
Maple Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This sweet and savory dish combines the rich flavors of maple syrup with the tender texture of salmon, perfectly paired with roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Roast sweet potatoes in a separate pan with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Place the baking sheet with salmon in the oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve with roasted sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Cod with Autumn Vegetables
Enjoy the warmth of fall with this flavorful and nutritious dish, featuring tender cod paired with a medley of autumn vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Arrange sweet potato, carrot, and red bell pepper around the cod.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cod is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Crusted Halibut
Elevate your seafood game with this seasonal recipe that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the flaky goodness of halibut. The crispy crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree and olive oil.
4. Dip each halibut fillet into the pumpkin mixture, coating evenly, then roll in breadcrumb mixture to coat.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apple Cider Braised Trout
This recipe showcases the rich flavors of apple cider paired with the delicate taste of trout, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy evening. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, apple cider, and trout fillets. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 12-15 minutes or until trout is cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Tilapia with Butternut Squash
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoky paprika and butternut squash to create a deliciously savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The tender tilapia is infused with a smoky aroma while the roasted squash adds a sweet and comforting touch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Toss the squash cubes with garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve the tilapia with roasted butternut squash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 37-42 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Salmon
Sweet and tangy, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Salmon recipe is a perfect blend of flavors to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, honey, and ginger.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low and let glaze simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush the cranberry orange glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Crusted Walleye with Wild Mushrooms
Experience the rich flavors of the wild with this easy-to-make recipe featuring walleye, a mild and flaky fish, paired with earthy wild mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, garlic, thyme, and parsley.
3. Place the walleye fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Top each fillet with sliced wild mushrooms.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Sugar and Mustard Glazed Mackerel
Elevate your fish game with this unexpected combination of brown sugar and mustard! This glaze adds a sticky, sweet, and tangy flavor to the rich taste of mackerel.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, mustard, and garlic.
3. Place the mackerel fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flaky.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Sea Bass with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sea bass with the bold flavors of rosemary and garlic, served alongside roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place the sea bass fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over each fillet. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, chicken broth, and salt to taste. Spread on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast Brussels sprouts in the same oven as the sea bass for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pecan-Crusted Catfish with Spiced Apples
Elevate your catfish game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines crispy pecans with tender fish, all wrapped up in a flavorful apple package.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecans, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the pecan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced apples and cook until caramelized (about 8 minutes).
7. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples and stir to combine.
8. Serve catfish with spiced apple slices on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Autumn Chowder with White Fish and Corn
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of autumnal flavors, featuring tender white fish, sweet corn, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add fish and cook until opaque, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in corn, flour, milk, heavy cream, and thyme.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Swordfish with Caramelized Onions
This recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon and caramelized onions to create a sweet and savory glaze for swordfish. The result is a tender and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Season swordfish fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear swordfish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Brush bourbon glaze over swordfish fillets.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until swordfish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Seed Crusted Trout with Sage Butter
This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of pumpkin seeds with the earthy warmth of sage butter, creating a unique and irresistible crust for pan-seared trout.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together pumpkin seeds, panko breadcrumbs, and salt.
3. Dip each trout fillet into the seed mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add trout and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with chopped sage. Serve trout with a pat of sage butter and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Fall Harvest Fish Tacos with Apple Slaw
As the seasons change, bring the flavors of fall to your tacos with this unique recipe featuring pan-seared fish, crispy slaw, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Apple slaw (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season fish with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
3. Dip fish in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Pan-fry fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fish on tortillas, topping with apple slaw, and adding optional toppings.
Apple Slaw:
– 2 apples, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes prep time)
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Stuffed Rainbow Trout
Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring roasted beets and creamy goat cheese stuffed inside a rainbow trout. The sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the goat cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 rainbow trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast beets in foil for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stuff each trout fillet with crumbled goat cheese, roasted beet slices, and minced garlic.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake trout in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Spiced Pear and Walnut Topped Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with a sweet and savory combination of spiced pears and toasted walnuts. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top each fillet with diced pear and drizzle with honey mixture.
5. Dot the top of each fillet with butter.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the pears.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Stuffed Flounder
A delicate flounder fillet packed with sweet caramelized onions and creamy Gruyère cheese, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 flounder fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Stuff each flounder fillet with a spoonful of caramelized onions and top with grated Gruyère cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed flounder on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
Harvest Spice Rubbed Snapper with Roasted Root Vegetables
A flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for a cozy autumn evening, this recipe combines the rich flavors of snapper with the warm spices of harvest season.
Ingredients:
– 4 snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Harvest Spice Blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Roasted root vegetables:
+ 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
+ 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
+ 2 large parsnips, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Harvest Spice Blend and olive oil.
3. Season snapper fillets with salt and pepper. Rub both sides of each fillet with the spice mixture.
4. Place snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast root vegetables on a separate baking sheet, tossing occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
6. Cook snapper in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve snapper with roasted root vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 delicious fall fish recipes! From Maple Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potatoes to Pumpkin Seed Crusted Trout with Sage Butter, and many more mouth-watering options in between. Each dish combines the flavors of autumn – think sweet potatoes, apples, butternut squash, and cranberries – with the freshness of fish. Perfect for comforting dinners or special occasions, these recipes will keep you warm and satisfied all season long.
