Walleye is a prized fish for its mild, sweet flavor and flaky texture. Popular among freshwater anglers, this fish is a favorite for a variety of cooking methods, but one of the simplest and most delicious ways to prepare it is by pan-frying. When cooked properly, pan-fried walleye offers a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a tender, flaky interior that’s perfect for any occasion.
In this article, I’ll guide you through a quick and easy pan-fried walleye recipe using basic ingredients like breadcrumbs, flour, and spices. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to deliver a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal that you can enjoy at home.
1. Pan Fried Walleye Recipe
Ingredients
For the Walleye:
- 2 walleye fillets (about 6-8 oz each)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil, for frying)
- Lemon wedges (for squeezing over the fish)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Shallow bowls or plates for dredging
- Tongs or a spatula for flipping the fish
- Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Season the Walleye Fillets
Pat the walleye fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy exterior.
Lightly season both sides of the fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Dredge the Fillets
Dredge each walleye fillet in the breadcrumb-flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Press the coating gently onto the fish to ensure it adheres well.
Shake off any excess coating and set the fillets aside on a plate.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the fish hits the pan, but not so hot that it burns the coating before the fish is cooked through.
Step 5: Pan-Fry the Walleye
Carefully place the breaded walleye fillets in the hot skillet, making sure they lay flat. Cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
Gently flip the fillets using tongs or a spatula, and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the fillets are golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the pan-fried walleye immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if using) for garnish.
2. How to Serve Pan-Fried Walleye
Pan-fried walleye is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:
Classic Fish Dinner: Serve the fish with a side of roasted vegetables (like asparagus or Brussels sprouts) and mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
Fish Tacos: Flake the walleye and use it as a filling for fish tacos. Top with shredded cabbage, salsa, and a drizzle of lime crema or chipotle mayo.
Light and Fresh: Pair the fish with a simple green salad and a side of lemon quinoa or couscous for a lighter option.
Sandwiches: Make a fried fish sandwich by placing the crispy walleye fillet in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
3. How to Store and Reheat Leftover Walleye
Storing: Store any leftover walleye in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat the fish in an air fryer for a few minutes to help maintain the crispiness.
Pan-fried walleye is a simple, classic way to enjoy this delicious freshwater fish. With just a few ingredients—walleye fillets, breadcrumbs, flour, and spices—you can create a crisp, golden exterior that perfectly complements the tender, flaky fish inside. Whether you’re serving it with lemon wedges for a quick weeknight dinner or using it in tacos for a fun twist, this pan-fried walleye recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.