This whole roasted branzino (aka European sea bass) is surprisingly easy to make. Infused with fresh garlic, herbs, and bright, zesty lemon, it will certainly be the most raved-about dish of the night.
After numerous trips to Europe, where I always order whole roasted branzino, I finally decided to tackle it myself. And I’ll admit, cooking a whole fish felt a little intimidating. I usually stick to simple baked cod or baked salmon filets on weeknights because they’re easy, reliable, and always good.
In the past, you’ve seen me cook branzino filets, but let’s be honest, there’s just something impressive about roasting a whole fish. The skin turns lightly crisp, the inside stays incredibly tender and flaky, and the lemon garlic butter sauce (optionally, but highly recommended) infuses every bite. Long story short—it’s far easier to cook brazino than you might imagine, and it rivals any dish I’ve tried at restaurants! So next time you’re at the market, grab a couple branzini and give this one a try.
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► TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro: Best Roasted Branzino Recipe
00:38 Get your fishmonger to clean and descale the branzino
00:51 Pat the branzino dry and season
01:28 Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs, then roast.
02:51 Make the lemon garlic butter sauce.
03:38 Transfer the roasted branzino to a platter or slice the fish open, debone, and serve up the filets on a plate.
05:02 Taste test and tips.
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20 Comments
I look forward to making this delicious dish at home. Thank you!
Could I use this recipe with trout or a small salmon?
Thanks!🙏🙂
Thank you for this amazing video I have never had fish this way. Not sure. If I'd like a fish with the head on it. But it's nice to know how to handle it. Thank you
Oh yum a must try ❤
I love branzino, however in the US it's almost impossible to find wild caught branzinos, they are usually farm raised, which I don't get.
You have definitely nudged me to give this a try.
I am so excited to see this receipt. I love branzino but never have tried it at home. Defiantly will give this a try.
Can you substitute the butter ?
Here in the UK we call them 'Sea Bass'.
What would you pair this with? As a side?
The thumbnail photo – chef's kiss 😋
My favorite fish and presentation!!!!
Going to try with a good quality olive oil over it. Looks great!
Looks good but I could never do a whole fish with the head still on. A bit scary looking at the head. I'll try Salmon instead without the head. 😄
I think I can make this. You make it seem so simple. I'm gonna try because it looks amazing!
wow looks amazing , I love your channel !❤
Love simple recipes like these. My local Costco stock these up frequently. Going to try this soon , thanks for sharing
Looks like a great recipe to have while I celebrate the Knicks’ impending championship. Call it a Brunsino, if you will
"Great content right here! Your videos are always so engaging to watch. I recently uploaded a quick 5-minute recipe on my channel, and I would love to get your professional take or feedback on it whenever you have a moment. Looking forward to your next video!"
Why leave the fish head on? Decoration?