Bacon Wrapped Mahi-Mahi is a tasty twist on fish! The juicy Mahi-Mahi fillets wrapped in crispy bacon create a perfect combination of flavors. It’s quick to cook and super satisfying!
You’ll love how the bacon adds a smoky richness to the fish. Anytime I make this, my family can’t get enough. Pair it with some veggies for a bright, delicious meal—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mahi-Mahi: This firm white fish is perfect for grilling or baking. If you can’t find mahi-mahi, you can substitute with halibut or swordfish, which have a similar texture and flavor.
Bacon: I used regular bacon for that great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or prosciutto can also work well, though the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps with cooking. If you’re avoiding oil, a bit of lemon juice can be a nice touch, but oil will give a better sear.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth to the dish. Feel free to swap smoked paprika with regular paprika for a milder taste, or add some cayenne if you enjoy a bit of heat!
How Can You Ensure the Bacon Gets Crispy Without Overcooking the Fish?
The key to achieving crispy bacon on your mahi-mahi while keeping it moist is all about the cooking method. Start by searing the bacon-wrapped fillets in the skillet before baking them.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Sear each fillet for 2-3 minutes per side until the bacon is golden brown. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked—this will happen in the oven!
- Transfer the skillet to the oven to finish cooking. This step helps the fish cook evenly without drying out while allowing the bacon to crisp up nicely.
Letting the fish rest after baking is also important—it allows the juices to redistribute for more flavor!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Mahi-Mahi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mahi-Mahi:
- 4 mahi-mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 8 slices bacon (2 per fillet)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your mahi-mahi cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Fish:
Pat the mahi-mahi fillets dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives you a nice sear later.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This blend will add great flavor to your fish!
4. Season the Fillets:
Rub the spice mix evenly over each mahi-mahi fillet, making sure they are well coated for maximum flavor.
5. Wrap the Mahi-Mahi:
Take two slices of bacon and wrap them around each fillet, ensuring it covers most of the fish. If the bacon doesn’t stay in place, you can secure it with toothpicks.
6. Sear the Fillets:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the bacon-wrapped fillets in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is nicely browned but not fully cooked.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the mahi-mahi is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The bacon should be crispy at this point.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the fillets rest for a couple of minutes. This keeps them juicy! Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and thyme sprigs if you like.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious bacon-wrapped mahi-mahi warm and enjoy a wonderful meal that is sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Mahi-Mahi?
Yes, you can use frozen mahi-mahi! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing the recipe. This helps maintain the texture and prevents uneven cooking.
How to Tell When Mahi-Mahi is Cooked?
Mahi-mahi is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. You can also cut into the thickest part to check if it’s opaque in color and fully cooked through.
Can I Make This Recipe Low-Fat?
Certainly! You can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lower fat option. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not get as crispy, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain texture. If reheating in the oven, place it at a low temperature to help crisp up the bacon again!
