Pan-fried fish is one of my favourite go-to meals, it’s quick, easy, packed with flavour and good for us! With a crispy, golden coating and tender, flaky fish inside, it’s a dish that always feels like a treat, even though it takes just minutes to prepare.
The Best Fish for Pan-Frying
When making pan-fried fish, choosing the right type of fish is key. I prefer using white fish fillets because they are mild in flavour and cook quickly. Some great options include:
Barramundi – My personal favourite! It has a buttery texture and holds up well to pan-frying.
Snapper – A firm, slightly sweet fish that crisps beautifully.
Flathead – A delicate, flaky fish that works perfectly in this recipe.
Cod – A mild, slightly firm fish that absorbs seasonings well.
Whiting – Both are budget-friendly and great for a light, crispy finish.
I usually buy fresh fish when it’s on sale at the supermarket. If fresh isn’t available, frozen fish fillets can work well too—just be sure to pat them dry after thawing to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Pan-fried fish pairs beautifully with fresh, simple sides. Here are my favourite ways to serve it:
Salad – A crisp garden salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing side.
Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, beans, or carrots add colour and nutrients to the plate.
Rice or Quinoa – A simple grain side soaks up any extra butter from the pan.
Mashed Potatoes – If you’re after something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes complement the fish beautifully.
This pan-fried fish is a perfect meal for busy weeknights, and with the right seasoning and sides, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Enjoy!
Pan-Fried Fish
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 5 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or seasoning of your choice)
- 5 pieces of white fish fillets (e.g., Barramundi)
- 1–2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Place flour and seasoning into a resealable bag.
- Seal the bag and shake to combine.
- Add one fish fillet to the bag, seal it, and gently shake to coat the fillet in flour.
- Remove the fillet, shaking off any excess flour.
- Repeat with the remaining fillets.
- Melt butter in a frypan over medium heat.
- Add fillets and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
