Keto Baked Mahi Mahi Recipe for Dinner

If you’re on a keto journey (or just love low-carb, delicious meals), this Keto Baked Mahi Mahi is the answer to your prayers. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re dining at a fancy restaurant—without the hefty price tag or the carbs you’re trying to avoid! The combination of rich flavors, fresh fish, and the simplicity of a baked recipe will have you coming back for more, and maybe even flexing your cooking muscles to impress your friends or family.

But what really sets Mahi Mahi apart? Well, this fish isn’t just some plain ol’ catch. It’s firm, flaky, mild-tasting, and versatile enough to blend with different seasonings and cooking methods. It’s also low in fat, which is why adding a few healthy fats into the recipe (hello butter!) is a perfect match for your keto goals. If you’re tired of the same chicken-and-bacon combo that dominates many keto meals, this baked Mahi Mahi is a welcome, elegant switch-up.

So, let’s dig into how you can prepare this delicious keto-friendly dish, step by step, without any fancy culinary school lessons required!

Why Mahi Mahi is Perfect for Keto

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why Mahi Mahi makes the ideal fish for your keto lifestyle. Aside from being incredibly lean (which you can balance out with fats in your recipe), it’s also low in carbs. Every 3.5 oz serving has just 0 grams of carbs, making it a guilt-free choice for anyone watching their macros. Protein? You get about 20 grams per serving, so it’s filling without loading up on unnecessary fats. Plus, it’s loaded with B-vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s that help promote brain health and keep inflammation down—a keto win!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish keeps things simple—because keto meals don’t need to be complicated to be tasty. Here’s what you’ll need for a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy:

  • 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (or ghee for those who want a bit more nutty flavor)
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika (adds a nice smoky touch)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, but great for some heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Now, depending on how keto you are (and how high your fat targets are for the day), feel free to add a drizzle of olive oil or a bit more butter to adjust the fat content to your liking.

Directions: How to Make Keto Baked Mahi Mahi

Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature to get that perfect balance of tenderness inside with a slight crisp on the outside of the fish.

Step 2: Prepare the Mahi Mahi

Start by patting your Mahi Mahi fillets dry with a paper towel. This removes any extra moisture, helping your fish to bake evenly and allowing the seasoning to stick better. Lightly season each fillet with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Season the Fish

In a small bowl, mix together your paprika, onion powder, minced garlic, and chili flakes (if using). Coat your fillets with this seasoning mix. Don’t be afraid to rub it in—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Get Ready to Bake

Grab a baking dish, and drizzle it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned Mahi Mahi fillets into the dish, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Squeeze half of the lemon over the fish for a fresh, zesty kick. Then, arrange your thinly sliced lemons on top of the fillets—these will add flavor as the fish bakes and look impressive when you serve the dish!

Step 5: Add the Butter

Dot the fish with small cubes of butter (or ghee), letting them melt during cooking to create a luscious sauce. Trust me, the butter combined with garlic and lemon is what takes this dish to the next level.

Step 6: Bake it to Perfection

Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You want the fish to be firm and flaky. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets, so check around the 12-minute mark. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done but still look moist.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once your Mahi Mahi is baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to brighten up the dish, and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love a little more citrus.

Pairing Your Mahi Mahi for a Full Keto Meal

Now, you’ve got your main dish, but what’s a keto dinner without some killer sides? Here are a few options that’ll complement your baked Mahi Mahi and keep you well within keto limits:

1. Cauliflower Mash

Missing mashed potatoes on keto? Cauliflower is your best friend. Steam some cauliflower, blend it up with butter, cream, salt, and pepper, and you’ve got a smooth, creamy, carb-free mash that pairs perfectly with fish.

2. Garlic Butter Asparagus

Asparagus is one of the lowest-carb vegetables out there and full of fiber to keep you full. Toss it in garlic and butter and roast it for a simple, yet flavorful side.

3. Zucchini Noodles

If you’re feeling like you need a pasta fix, spiralized zucchini (aka zoodles) is an excellent stand-in. Lightly sauté in olive oil and garlic, then drizzle with some lemon juice and Parmesan for a tangy, satisfying side.

4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Roast Brussels sprouts until crispy and sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese for a crunchy, salty bite that goes amazingly well with Mahi Mahi’s light flavor.

Keto Tips to Elevate Your Baked Mahi Mahi

Wondering how you can take this dish up a notch or tweak it to fit your personal tastes? Here are a few ideas that’ll make this recipe even more delicious or keto-friendly, depending on your goals.

  • Add More Fat: If you’re working to hit those high-fat targets, don’t hesitate to drizzle a little more olive oil over the fish before baking or use an extra pat of butter.
  • Herb it Up: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme work well with Mahi Mahi. Add them to the butter or scatter them around the fish in the baking dish for extra flavor.
  • Change the Heat Level: Not everyone loves chili flakes. If you’re cooking for kids or someone with a mild palate, reduce or omit them. Alternatively, add a dash of cayenne if you want more spice!
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter for ghee or coconut oil if you’re avoiding dairy but still want that rich, luscious sauce.
  • Add a Keto-Friendly Crust: For a crunchier texture, sprinkle a bit of almond flour on top of the fish before baking. It crisps up beautifully and keeps things low-carb.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

In the rare case you’ve got leftovers (I’m telling you, this recipe is hard to resist!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

  • Fridge: Store any leftover Mahi Mahi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, make sure to do it slowly—either in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or on the stove over medium heat to avoid drying out the fish.
  • Freezer: Mahi Mahi also freezes well. Wrap your fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to Keto Baked Mahi Mahi

This Keto Baked Mahi Mahi checks all the boxes—it’s simple, quick, full of flavor, and totally keto-approved. It’s one of those recipes you’ll have on repeat because it doesn’t require a ton of prep or obscure ingredients, but the end result feels special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this dish is a surefire way to please everyone, even those who aren’t following a keto diet.

Plus, Mahi Mahi’s versatility means you can switch up the seasonings, add in different fats, or pair it with all sorts of sides to keep things interesting. It’s a keto recipe that just makes sense, and it’s going to make your weekly meal rotation all the more exciting.

So, go ahead—grab some Mahi Mahi fillets next time you’re at the store and give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so satisfying.

And don’t forget to share your Keto Baked Mahi Mahi on Pinterest to inspire others on their keto journey!

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Keto Baked Mahi Mahi Recipe for Dinner

This Keto Baked Mahi Mahi recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dinner option perfect for the keto diet. The tender, flaky fish is seasoned with garlic, paprika, lemon, and butter for a light yet savory meal that’s low-carb and high in protein. Ready in just 30 minutes, it pairs beautifully with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables for a complete, delicious dinner.

  • Author: Jane Summerfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Keto, Low-Carb
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Pat the Mahi Mahi fillets dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Mix paprika, onion powder, minced garlic, and chili flakes in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning mix onto the fish.
  • Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish and place the fillets inside. Squeeze half a lemon over the fish and place lemon slices on top.
  • Dot the fish with cubes of butter.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is firm and flakes easily.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For more fat, drizzle extra olive oil or butter before baking.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with ghee or coconut oil.
  • Adjust chili flakes for desired heat level or omit for a mild version.

Please note: The recipe or ingredients shown in the video might vary slightly from what’s listed here. Use the video as an illustration, but for the best results, stick to the recipe provided in this article.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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