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Gordon Ramsay Pan-Seared Halibut – Crispy, Golden & Perfectly Flaky

Gordon Ramsay Pan-Seared Halibut recipe

Gordon Ramsay’s Pan-Seared Halibut is a quick and elegant seafood dish where fresh halibut fillets are seared in a hot pan to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Finished with butter, garlic, and herbs, this dish is simple yet full of flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 halibut fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Halibut:

  1. Pat the halibut dry – Use paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.
  2. Season well – Sprinkle both sides of the fish with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Sear the Halibut:

  1. Heat the pan – Place a non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  2. Place halibut in the pan – Carefully add the fillets and press down gently for 30 seconds to ensure even contact.
  3. Sear without moving – Let the halibut cook for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
  4. Flip and finish cooking – Turn the fillet and cook for 2-3 more minutes until opaque in the center.

Add Butter & Aromatics:

  1. Melt butter and add garlic – Toss in butter, garlic, and thyme, basting the fish for extra flavor.
  2. Squeeze lemon juice – Just before removing, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Serve Immediately:

  1. Plate and enjoy – Serve with your favorite sides and garnish with extra herbs.