If you’re after an easy yet impressive dinner, try this Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Halibut. The crust is crunchy while the inside stays tender and flaky—one of the best bites of fish you’ll make at home.
Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Halibut
We love fishing and have been fortunate to bring home plenty of fresh halibut. When treated well, halibut’s thick, meaty fillets are rich and buttery—almost like a steak of the sea—and this parmesan-crusted version is one of my favorites.
We got a boat a few years ago and the family gets out on the water dozens of times a year in the Puget Sound and along the Washington and Oregon coasts. One unusually good season left us with a freezer full of fresh halibut, which inspired this simple, satisfying recipe.
This recipe is forgiving and works with any firm white fish if you don’t have halibut on hand. I can’t wait to try it with lingcod, rockfish, and walleye too.
Why I love halibut, and you should too
Halibut is prized for its thick, meaty flesh and how delicious it becomes when cooked properly. A well-prepared halibut fillet feels special in the same way a good steak does, and when you pair it with a crunchy parmesan crust it becomes a real weeknight showstopper.
I’ve shared other halibut recipes before, but this air fryer version is quick, low-mess, and reliably crisp. The kids loved it, and it’s a great way to win over picky eaters.
Why You’ll Love It
The crispy, cracker-packed crust contrasts beautifully with the tender fish. Prep is straightforward: a mayo-parmesan mixture coats the fillet, then you press on crushed crackers and air fry until golden. The method keeps cleanup minimal and the results impressive.
Recipe Shopping List
For exact amounts, follow the recipe card below. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:
- Halibut (or another firm white fish)
- Mayonnaise
- Shredded Parmesan
- Salt & black pepper
- Hot sauce
- Ritz crackers (or similar), crushed
- Minced garlic or fresh cloves
How To Make This Recipe
Short version of the steps—full instructions are in the recipe card below.
- Your hands will get messy — it’s part of the process when you coat the fish. Wash up afterward and enjoy the easy rest of the cook.
- Prevent sticking — use a non-stick air fryer rack or spray it lightly so the crust doesn’t adhere to the surface.
- Mix — combine the mayo, parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
- Spread — coat the fillets thoroughly with the mixture.
- Bread — press crushed crackers onto all sides of the fish.
- Cook — air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until the center reaches your desired doneness.
Recipe FAQ
Leftovers can be stored in a covered container for a day or two. The crust softens a bit but the flavor remains excellent.
Reheat in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 300°F) so the crust doesn’t burn while the center warms through. Watch closely for best results.
Serve This With
This halibut pairs well with creamy coleslaw, a bright Greek salad, or grilled asparagus. For a heartier meal, serve alongside simple creamy noodles or roasted vegetables like air-fryer broccoli.
Choose sides that add texture and brightness to balance the rich crust and buttery fish.
Reader Reviews
“I’ve been cooking halibut different ways for over 30 years. This recipe is now our very favorite done in the air fryer. So delish!!!”
– Paula
“Best halibut I have ever eaten, and I’ve eaten a lot of halibut. It was crispy and so flavorful.”
– Becky
“Made this Gluten Free using GF panko instead of Ritz. 380° for about 10-12 minutes and it was delicious!”
– Vikki
Pin For Later
Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Halibut
Halibut fillets are coated in a parmesan-mayo mixture, rolled in crushed crackers, and air fried until golden. Simple, quick, and impressive.
10 minutes
10 minutes
20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound halibut
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (or 2 cloves smoked garlic)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Pat halibut dry with paper towels.
- Mix mayo, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and hot sauce in a small bowl.
- Crush crackers and place in a separate bowl.
- Coat fillets with the mayo mixture, then press into the crushed crackers so all sides are covered. Place fillets in a single layer in the air fryer, not touching. Lightly spray the rack if sticking is a concern.
- Air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130–135°F, depending on your preferred doneness.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 722
Total Fat: 51g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 174mg
Sodium: 1450mg
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 60g
Nutrition data provided here is only an estimate.
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