Pan Fried Cod
This Pan Fried Cod recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and offers an amazing blend of crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish. Seasoned to perfection using a blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and even lemon pepper cooked to golden perfection, each bite is a burst of savory goodness.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 10-12 ounces cod fish fillets
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning Optional
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet on the stove at medium high heat. I use a 10 inch cast iron skillet.
- Sprinkle the spices onto both sides of the fish. Rub the spices in to ensure the flavor penetrates. Ensure the fish fully coated with spices and add additional if needed to ensure optimal flavor.
- Add the olive oil and butter to the skillet and allow the butter to melt.
- Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Using a spatula, carefully flip the cod fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can tell it's done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Gently press the thickest part of the fish using a fork. If it flakes easily, it is done.
- Remove the fish from the pan. Cool before serving.
Notes
How to Tell When it's Finished Cooking
- Visual: The fish should turn opaque and white as it cooks. Look for the edges to start turning golden brown and crispy. The flesh should flake easily with a fork but still be moist and slightly translucent in the center.
- Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish. The USDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish to ensure accurate readings.
- Time: As a general guideline, cook the cod for about 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
- Touch: Gently press down on the top of the fish with a spatula. If the fish feels firm and springs back slightly, it's likely cooked through. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent squeezing out the juices.
- Flake test: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the fish and twist gently. If the flesh easily flakes apart and appears opaque all the way through, it's done. Be careful not to overdo this test, as it can cause the fish to dry out if it's cooked too long.
Nutrition
Serving: 6ozCalories: 182kcalProtein: 19gFat: 12g
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