Description

A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring golden-brown, shatteringly crisp cod fillets coated in a light flour dredge and pan-fried in butter and oil. This simple recipe delivers restaurant-quality texture and flavor without the need for deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cod fillets (6–8 oz each)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
1–2 lemons, for juicing
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Spread all-purpose flour in a shallow dish and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add butter to the hot oil and swirl to coat the pan, waiting for the foaming to subside slightly.
Press each fillet firmly into the flour mixture to coat all sides, shaking off any excess flour.
Place fillets in the hot pan, laying them away from you to avoid splatter. Do not move for 2-3 minutes to allow searing.
Flip the fish when edges are golden brown and cook the second side for 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and flesh flakes easily.
Remove fish to a wire rack or plate. Repeat with remaining fillets if cooking in batches.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot fish and garnish with chopped parsley before serving immediately.

Notes

Ensure fish is completely dry before dredging to prevent steaming. Do not overcrowd the pan. Let the fish sit undisturbed to form a crust. If using frozen cod, thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat dry. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with additional oil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet per serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 0.5
Sodium: 600
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 6
Carbohydrates: 15
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 25

Keywords: pan fried cod, crispy fish, easy dinner, weeknight meals, healthy seafood, gluten-free option, high protein