Your Basic Panfried Fish Recipe

Dive into a classic! This pan-fried fish recipe, inspired by Betty Crocker's iconic "Good and Easy" cookbook (1971), is a timeless weeknight winner. Crispy, flaky, and bursting with flavor, it's ready in under 30 minutes. Elevate it to gourmet status with our optional Fish Almondine topping: toasted almonds, lemon, and butter create a luxurious sauce that's simply irresistible. Perfect for a simple dinner or a special occasion!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 369.8 kcal
Protein 113g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Your Basic Panfried Fish 53

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Your Basic Panfried Fish

  • 1 pound fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or your favorite)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup butter (for Fish Almondine, optional)

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How to Make Your Basic Panfried Fish

  1. If fillets are large, cut into serving-sized pieces (approximately 4-6 ounces each).
  2. Season fish generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. In a shallow dish, lightly whisk together 1 large egg and 2 tablespoons of water.
  4. Dip each fish fillet into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
  5. Dredge the egg-coated fish in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Melt 2 tablespoons of shortening or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The shortening should shimmer but not smoke.
  7. Carefully place the fish fillets in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
  8. (Optional Fish Almondine): While the fish cooks, prepare the topping. In a small skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup toasted slivered blanched almonds, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons lemon juice. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
  9. Top the cooked fish with the almond butter (if using) and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

32 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

4g

Carbs

7g