Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner that impresses. With tender Chilean sea bass fillets, perfectly seared and drenched in a rich buttery sauce, this recipe captures elegance and flavor. Suitable for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight meal, it showcases the wonderful taste of fish while keeping it straightforward to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal on the table.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, shallots, and a buttery sauce elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with various sides like sweet potato hash or fresh vegetables to fit any occasion.
- Elegant Presentation: The beautiful plating makes it a show-stopper for dinner parties or family gatherings.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this dish supports a balanced diet.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe perfectly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides even heating for perfectly searing the sea bass fillets.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for the sauce, enhancing flavor balance.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping the delicate fish without breaking it apart.

Ingredients
A Cozy dinner featuring tender Chilean sea bass fillets, perfectly seared and served with a rich buttery sauce.
For the Sea Bass
- 4 Chilean sea bass fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots
- 1/4 cup dry white apple vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sea Bass
Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Place the sea bass fillets in the skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Remove the cooked sea bass from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to prevent overcooking while you prepare the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Let it melt before adding minced garlic and shallots; sauté them for about 1 minute.
Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Pour in the white apple vinegar and chicken broth, stirring to combine with garlic and shallots to create a flavorful base for your sauce. Allow the liquid to cook for 2-3 minutes before stirring in lemon juice and chopped parsley.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
Return the sea bass fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over them to ensure they are coated evenly. Serve hot, optionally garnishing with extra parsley or pairing with sweet potato and pineapple hash as enjoyed at Ruth’s Chris. Enjoy!
How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
Serving Ruth’s Chris Chilean sea bass is an art that enhances the dish’s gourmet appeal. Here are some delightful ways to present this elegant meal.
Pair with Sweet Potato and Pineapple Hash
- This colorful hash adds a sweet and savory contrast to the rich sea bass, creating a well-rounded plate.
Garnish with Fresh Parsley
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to each bite.
Accompany with Lemon Wedges
- Serving lemon wedges allows guests to brighten the flavor of the sea bass with a squeeze of citrus, enhancing its taste profile.
Serve with Steamed Asparagus
- Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crisp texture and vibrant color, making it a perfect side for the buttery fish.
Present on Elegant Dinnerware
- Using fine china or stylish plates elevates the dining experience, making the meal feel even more special.
How to Perfect Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
To achieve the best results when preparing this dish, consider these helpful tips:
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sea bass and herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor. Always opt for high-quality ingredients.
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Ensure proper seasoning: Seasoning both sides of the fish with salt and pepper before cooking ensures even flavor throughout the fillets.
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Monitor cooking time: Cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side helps achieve that golden-brown crust without overcooking the fish.
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Control heat levels: Adjusting the heat to medium after searing prevents burning while allowing the sauce to develop its rich flavors.
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Let it rest before serving: Allowing the sea bass to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture and makes for a tender dish.
Best Side Dishes for Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
Choosing complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting accompaniment that pairs beautifully with butter sauce. -
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and texture to balance the richness of the fish. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the delicate sea bass. -
Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled vegetables provide vibrant colors and flavors, making them an appealing side that complements seafood well. -
Wild Rice Pilaf
Nutty wild rice pilaf is hearty yet light, offering a unique base to soak up any leftover sauce from your Chilean sea bass. -
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a cool contrast, enhancing each bite of warm fish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common pitfalls.
- Bold seasoning – Failing to season the fish adequately can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Bold overcooking – Overcooked sea bass can become dry and tough. Monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for a golden brown exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Bold neglecting the sauce – Skipping the sauce preparation will reduce the flavor profile of your dish. Take time to sauté garlic and shallots properly and allow the sauce to blend well.
- Bold using low-quality ingredients – Using inferior butter or broth can negatively impact the taste. Opt for high-quality unsalted butter and fresh chicken broth for the best results.
- Bold improper storage – Not storing leftovers correctly can affect their quality. Ensure you refrigerate or freeze them in airtight containers promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sea bass in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The sea bass can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the fish in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place the sea bass on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter or oil. Heat each side of the sea bass for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe?
This recipe features buttery flavors combined with fresh herbs and tangy vinegar, making it a gourmet experience at home.
Can I use other fish instead of Chilean sea bass?
Yes, you can substitute other firm white fish like halibut or cod, but cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I know when my Chilean sea bass is cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What sides pair well with Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe?
Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a sweet potato hash for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe is not only elegant but also versatile enough for various occasions. With its rich buttery sauce and tender fish, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.
Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe
Ruth’s Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe is a luxurious yet accessible dish that transforms your dinner into a gourmet experience. Featuring tender Chilean sea bass fillets, perfectly seared to golden brown and drizzled with a rich buttery sauce, this recipe highlights the delicate flavors of the fish while remaining simple to prepare. Ideal for special occasions or an elegant weeknight meal, it’s a delightful way to impress family and friends. The dish pairs beautifully with sides like sweet potato hash or fresh vegetables, making it versatile enough for any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 Chilean sea bass fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots
- 1/4 cup dry white apple vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Cook the sea bass fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add remaining butter to the skillet, then sauté minced garlic and shallots for about 1 minute.
- Pour in white apple vinegar and chicken broth; cook for another 2-3 minutes before stirring in lemon juice and parsley.
- Return the sea bass to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
