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Pan Fried Cod Recipe

Pan Fried Cod Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 107 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This pan fried cod recipe delivers perfectly flaky, golden fish in less than 15 minutes. With minimal ingredients and a simple stovetop method, it’s an easy, healthy main dish that’s bursting with flavor. The cod fillets are lightly seasoned and cooked until crispy outside and tender inside, making them a delicious option for a quick weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cod

  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For Frying

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Serving (Optional)

  • Lemon wedges
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This will help season the fish and draw out extra moisture so it sears nicely.
  2. Heat the Pan: In a large nonstick or cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and foamy.
  3. Cook the Cod: Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 3โ€“4 minutes, until the undersides are golden and the fillets are halfway cooked through.
  4. Flip and Finish Cooking: Gently flip each fillet using a wide spatula. Cook for another 2โ€“3 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Serve: Transfer the cod to plates. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Make sure the pan is hot before adding the cod for the best sear.
  • Patting the cod dry prevents excess moisture, helping it crisp and cook evenly.
  • Swap in other white fish like haddock or halibut if preferred.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.
  • Don’t overcrowd the panโ€”cook in batches if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 oz)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 410 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg