This Bacon Wrapped Mahi-Mahi is a delicious treat that perfectly combines crispy bacon with tender fish. The flavors work together so well—it’s a match made in foodie heaven!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of bacon? I love making this dish for special occasions because it always impresses my guests. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mahi-Mahi: This fish is known for its mild flavor and firm texture, making it ideal for wrapping in bacon. If mahi-mahi is hard to find, you can substitute it with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or even salmon for a richer taste.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for this recipe because it crisps up nicely and adds a hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, although it might not be as crispy.
Olive Oil: This adds some moisture to the fillets. If you’re out, feel free to use melted butter or avocado oil, each of which could also enhance the flavor.
Spices: The garlic powder and smoked paprika are key for flavor. For a twist, try using lemon pepper instead of black pepper or add some cayenne for heat. Fresh garlic can be a nice touch if you prefer a strong garlic flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Fish Stays Moist and Flaky?
Getting that perfect moisture in your fish can be tricky, but it’s essential! Follow these steps to keep your mahi-mahi tender:
- Make sure to pat the fillets dry—this helps the oil and spices stick better.
- Don’t skip the oven preheating! It ensures the fish cooks evenly.
- Wrap the fish tightly with bacon to keep moisture in while it cooks.
- Check for doneness—mahi-mahi should be opaque and flake easily. Avoid overcooking, as it can dry out.
Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after baking! This helps the juices redistribute, so your fish is moist and delicious. Enjoy!
Bacon Wrapped Mahi-Mahi Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mahi-Mahi:
- 4 mahi-mahi fillets (about 4 to 6 ounces each)
- 8 strips of bacon (2 per fillet)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spice Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary and parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 25-30 minutes for cooking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. The outcome will be deliciously crispy bacon wrapping perfectly cooked mahi-mahi, making this a delightful and impressive dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it gets nice and hot while you prepare your fish. A preheated oven helps the bacon crisp up perfectly!
2. Mix Your Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir them together to create an evenly blended seasoning mix.
3. Prepare the Mahi-Mahi:
Pat each mahi-mahi fillet dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispness! Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil to add flavor and moisture.
4. Season the Fish:
Sprinkle the spice mixture generously over all sides of the fillets, ensuring each piece is coated well. This adds fantastic flavor to the fish.
5. Wrap the Fillets:
Take two strips of bacon and wrap them around each fillet, overlapping the bacon slightly to help it stay in place during cooking.
6. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped mahi-mahi onto a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later!
7. Bake in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the bacon to be crispy and the fish to be cooked through (it should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork).
8. Optional Broiling Step:
If you want extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the fish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the fish.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary and chopped parsley over the top for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your delicious Bacon Wrapped Mahi-Mahi!
With each bite, you’ll be delighted by the crispy bacon wrapping around the tender fish. It’s a great dish for any night of the week!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fish?
Absolutely! If mahi-mahi isn’t available, you can substitute it with other firm fish like snapper, halibut, or even salmon. Just ensure the fish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too. For a spicy kick, consider using cayenne pepper or chili powder instead!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wrapped fish in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help crisp up the bacon again.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some rice or quinoa to round out your meal.