Seared Mahi Mahi with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Make restaurant-quality seared mahi mahi in under 25 minutes! Golden crust, flaky inside, finished with a bold lemon garlic butter sauce. Easy + impressive.

Seared Mahi Mahi Garlic Butter Sauce

Mahi mahi is naturally low in fat and holds up beautifully to high-heat cooking, making it ideal for pan-searing.

Seared Mahi Mahi Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

This lemon garlic butter sauce can be made in the same pan used to sear the fish, building flavor from the fond for a one-pan masterpiece.

πŸ“Œ FAQ

What is the best way to cook mahi mahi?


Pan-searing in a hot skillet creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.

  1. How long do you cook mahi mahi on the stove?
    Typically 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

  2. What does mahi mahi taste like?
    It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a firm, flaky texture.

  3. Can I use frozen mahi mahi?
    Yes! Just thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking.

  4. What kind of pan is best for searing mahi mahi?
    A stainless steel skillet gives the best golden crust.

  5. How do I know when mahi mahi is cooked?
    It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temp of 137Β°F.

  6. Can I bake mahi mahi instead of searing?
    Yes, but you’ll miss that crispy sear. Baking works at 400Β°F for 12–15 minutes.

  7. Is mahi mahi healthy?
    Absolutely! It's high in protein, low in fat, and rich in B vitamins.

  8. What sauces go well with mahi mahi?
    Lemon garlic butter, mango salsa, or creamy Dijon are popular choices.

  9. What sides pair well with mahi mahi?
    Garlic rice, roasted veggies, coconut rice, or a fresh salad.

  10. Is mahi mahi good for meal prep?
    Yes! It reheats well and holds its flavor in the fridge for 2–3 days.

  11. What herbs go best with mahi mahi?
    Parsley, thyme, dill, and cilantro all pair beautifully.

  12. How do I prevent mahi mahi from sticking to the pan?
    Make sure the pan is hot and the fish is dry. Add oil only after preheating.

  13. Can I grill mahi mahi instead?
    Yes! Mahi mahi is firm enough to hold up on the grill.

  14. How spicy is the lemon garlic butter sauce?
    It’s not spicy by default, but you can add chili flakes for a little kick.

Make it

🐟 Seared Mahi Mahi with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce (Serves 4)

πŸ•’ Ready in: 25 minutes

Serves: 4 hungry folks
Skill: Easy but elegant

πŸ§‚ Ingredients

For the Mahi Mahi:

  • 4 mahi mahi fillets (6–7 oz each, skinless)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (half a stick)

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

πŸ”₯ Instructions

1. Prep the Fish

  • Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry on both sides (critical for that sear).

  • Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Sear the Fillets

  • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil + 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Sear fillets in two batches if needed (don’t overcrowd the pan).

  • Cook each fillet for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden, lightly crisped, and just opaque in the center (internal temp ~137Β°F).

  • Remove fish and set aside on a plate loosely tented with foil.

3. Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.

  • Add 4 tbsp butter and let it melt.

  • Add minced garlic and sautΓ© 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

  • Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley. Let it bubble gently for 1 minute.

  • Taste β€” season with a bit more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if desired.

4. Serve It Up

  • Place mahi mahi on plates or a platter.

  • Spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce generously over the top.

  • Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges.

🌟 Pro Serving Ideas

  • Serve it with roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

  • Add a side salad with a light vinaigrette to keep it fresh.

Let me know what sides or drink pairings you’re thinking about β€” I can hook you up with something that complements the whole vibe.

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