Broiled Mahi Mahi Recipe

Written by: Vladimir Lapshin

Broiled mahi mahi is a delicious white fish that is crispy on top and soft and tender from the inside. In this broiled mahi mahi recipe, fresh mahi mahi fillets are brushed with a simple garlic-herb butter and cooked under the broiler for just a few minutes. The high heat of the broiler gives the fish a golden, slightly crispy top while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This method is both delicious and easy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special without much effort.

Key Takeaways

• Fast and easy meal: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish. It is perfect for busy weeknights. This broiled mahi mahi recipe is also very easy to make and requires simple ingredients.
• Bursting with flavor: Broiled mahi mahi is rich in flavor due to the presence of the garlic-herb butter which adds rich, savory taste and keeps the fish moist.
• Healthy and satisfying: Broiled mahi mahi is a lean source of protein. It is low in fat but high in flavor. This broiled mahi recipe is both flavorful and nutritious.

What is Broiled Mahi Mahi

Mahi mahi is a firm, mild-flavored white fish that has a slightly sweet taste and a flakey, juicy texture when cooked. Mahi mahi steaks or fillets are fairly thick and hold up well to bold flavors and high heat, making them great for grilling or broiling. 

Broiling is a cooking method that uses direct, high heat from above like an indoor grill. It cooks food quickly and creates a lightly charred or golden surface. Broiled mahi mahi means the fish is placed under the broiler in the oven. The top of the fish browns and crisps in just minutes while the inside stays moist. The quick cook time helps the garlic-herb butter penetrate and flavor the fish without drying it out. I have given below step by step instructions for this tasty and delicious broiled mahi recipe.

Broiled Mahi Mahi Recipe

Recipe by Recipe Blossom

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: Healthy, SeafoodCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories per serving

280

kcal

Total time

20

minutes

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless if possible

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or cilantro), chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about half a lemon)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by Step Instructions

• Preheat and prepare: Set your oven rack a few inches below the broiler element and turn the broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it. Take mahi mahi fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel and season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Make the garlic-herb butter: Melt the butter in a bowl in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped herbs. Add the lemon juice and mix until you have a smooth, garlicky herb butter. This buttery sauce will both season the fish and help keep it moist under the high heat.
• Brush the fish: Lay the fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Generously coat the top and edges of each fillet with half of the garlic-herb butter mixture. Make sure the garlic and herbs are spread evenly over the fish.
• Broil the first side: Slide the baking sheet under the hot broiler. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes without moving the fish. You will know it is time to flip when the edges start to brown slightly and the fish begins to look opaque on top.
• Flip and finish cooking: Carefully use a spatula to flip each fillet over. Brush the newly exposed top side with the remaining garlic-herb butter. Return the pan to the broiler and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Be careful not to overcook because  mahi mahi should be juicy, not dry.
• Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the mahi mahi rest for a minute, then transfer to plates. Squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the top if you like, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or rice. 

Chef Recommendations

• Watch it closely: Broilers vary in strength. Keep an eye on the fish as it cooks, since it can go from perfectly golden to burned in a very short time.
• Even thickness: In this recipe for broiled mahi mahi, use fillets of similar size and thickness. This helps in even cooking. If some pieces are much thicker, you can cut them in half or gently pound them thinner so they all cook at the same rate.
• Use fresh ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients in recipe for broiled mahi mahi. Fresh garlic and herbs really enhance the flavor. If you are using fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro, chop them finely so they mix well with the butter. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, so do not skip it.

What are some variations of the broiled mahi mahi recipe

• Citrus twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze of orange juice to the garlic butter for a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also serve the fish with lemon or lime wedges.
• Asian-inspired: Replace the butter with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and a little honey. Brush this on the fish then broil for an Asian-style glazed mahi mahi.
• Grilled option: If you do not want to use the oven, you can grill the fish outdoors. Brush the fillets with the same garlic-herb mixture and grill over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Grilling adds a nice smoky char.

How to Store and Reheat broiled mahi mahi

You can store any leftover broiled mahi mahi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish on a plate and cover lightly with a damp paper towel, then microwave on medium power for 30-second intervals until warmed. 

Or, you can warm it in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10 minutes. Keep the heat low and check often so the fish stays moist. Reheated fish is also delicious cold, so consider flaking it into salads or wraps without reheating.

The Nutrition Facts

These nutritional values are approximate estimates based on ingredient data and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on specific ingredients, and cooking methods. Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for dietary advice tailored to your needs.

The Nutritional Benefits

• High in Protein: Mahi mahi is a lean fish that is packed with protein. A serving of this broiled fish provides a good amount of the protein your body needs for muscle repair and energy. 
• Low in Fat: Broiled mahi mahi recipe is relatively low in fat, especially since mahi mahi itself is a low-fat fish. Using a modest amount of butter and opting for unsalted butter means you can control the fat and sodium content. The result is a light but delicious meal that is gentle on your heart. 
• Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Like many seafoods, mahi mahi contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. These healthy fats can help support your cardiovascular system and cognitive function. 

FAQs