How To Cook White Fish In A Pan

Learning how to cook white fish in a pan is easier than most people expect. Follow these simple and straightforward steps and you’ll become a pro in no time.

I feel like knowing how to cook white fish in a pan is one of those cooking 101 skills that is a relief to know how to do.

We are more of a salmon household, but I do love switching things up with a good white fish dish every now and then. 

We like to get creative with it, either frying it for fish tacos or pan-searing them to make it simpler but just as delicious without the guilt. It’s an easy way to make a quick dinner too if it’s served alongside mashed potatoes, basmati rice, bulgur, and some steamed or roasted vegetables.

This post is about how to cook white fish in a pan, the right way.

Easy Guide On How To Cook White Fish In A Pan

What kind of white fish can I use in this recipe?

Any white fish can be cooked in a pan including tilapia, pollock, halibut, cod, bass, grouper, haddock, catfish, snapper, whiting, etc. Although each fish differs slightly in flakiness, texture, and taste, they all can be cooked following these general directions.

What do I need for this recipe?

You will need:

• White Fish Fillets: I use whiting in this recipe.
• Oil: Oil is needed for the pan (and fish).
• Salt/Pepper/Paprika: For flavor.

How do I cook white fish?

First, pat dry the fish with a paper towel. Then, season the “presentation” side with salt, pepper, and paprika. 

*Note: You always cook the side of the fillet that is the “presentation” side first. So, if the fillet has skin, it would be the side without the skin. And if the fillet is skinless, then you would choose the smoother, “prettier” side to be the “presentation” side. Season this side first because it is the side that will be seared first. This “presentation” side gets cooked first because it creates a nice sear and looks more delectable when serving.

Next, set a large skillet or flat pan on medium-high heat. Add the oil to the pan and wait until the oil is hot (it may smoke a little).

Now, gently place the seasoned fillet side down in the pan. Do not move the fillets around for about 5-7 minutes (depending on the thickness of the fillet). This allows the fish to get a nice sear.

Season the other side of the fish. 

Once 5-7 minutes pass and you see that the fish has browned nicely, gently flip the fish over. Lower the heat to medium and allow the fish to finish cooking thoroughly. The fish is done when it is no longer opaque.

There you have it. Very simple and straightforward steps to cooking white fish on the stovetop.

🖤 Let me know in the comments if you plan on making this or if you did. I love hearing from you!

🖤 Sharing is caring! Please pin or share this so others can enjoy the recipe too 😀

🖤 Thank you for visiting and happy cooking! 🙂

This post was about how to cook white fish in a pan the simple method.

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

How To Cook White Fish

This is the simple guide on how to cook white fish in a pan. This recipe is universal and can be used in numerous recipes.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword how to cook white fish, pan seared fish

Prep Time 3 minutes minutes

Cook Time 14 minutes minutes

Total Time 17 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Ingredients

• 3 white fish fillets
• salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

• Pat dry the fish fillets and season the "presentation" or skinless side with salt, pepper, and paprika (or your choice of seasoning).
• Set a large, flat skillet or pan on medium-high heat and add the oil to the pan. Allow the oil to get hot (you may notice a little bit of smoke coming from the pan).
• Gently place the fillets in the hot pan, with the seasoned side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillet.

  *Note: Do not move the fillet around once you place it in the pan. Allow it to fully sear before turning it.
• Lower the heat to medium and gently flip the fillet over and allow the other side to fully cook through. This will take another 5-7 minutes. The fish is done when it is no longer opaque.
• Enjoy!