Walleye Pike: Pan-Seared Perfection

Pan-seared walleye pike is a delicious and easy way to cook fish. It is a versatile method that can be used to cook any type of white fish, such as cod or tilapia, but walleye is a popular choice due to its mild flavour and firm texture. Pan-searing gives the fish a golden, crispy crust while keeping the flesh juicy and flaky. This technique is perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight meal or a special occasion dish.

Pan-seared walleye pike cooking instructions

Ingredients

Walleye is a freshwater fish native to lakes in Canada and the Northern United States. It is a white-fleshed fish with a mild flavour.

To make pan-seared walleye, you will need:

• Walleye fillets (with the skin removed, if preferred)
• Butter
• Lemon pepper seasoning (or seasoning of choice)
• Oil (vegetable, canola or olive)
• Salt
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Flour
• Italian herb blend
• Cornmeal

Method

First, heat a skillet to medium heat and add the oil or butter to the pan. Season the walleye fillets generously with lemon pepper seasoning or your chosen herbs and spices.

Place the fish in the pan, right over the melted butter. Then, place another pan over the top of the fish to create steam inside the pan.

Cook the fish for around 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145-150 degrees Fahrenheit. The walleye will turn white when it is done.

Alternatively, you can create a light, crispy coating by dipping the fillets in a flour and breadcrumb mixture before frying. You can also add eggs to act as a binder for the crumbs.

Pan-seared walleye pike cooking time

Pan-seared walleye pike is a quick and easy method for cooking this freshwater fish, which is native to lakes in Canada and the Northern United States. The cooking time for pan-seared walleye is relatively short, making it a convenient option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Preparation

Firstly, ensure your walleye fillets are dry by patting them with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. You can choose to remove the skin or leave it on, but if you do keep the skin on, it is recommended to start cooking with the skin side down to get a crispy texture.

Cooking Instructions

To cook, heat a skillet to medium heat and add butter or oil to the pan. Season the walleye fillets generously with your choice of seasoning—a popular option is lemon pepper. Place the fish in the pan and cover it with another pan to create steam inside.

Cook the fish for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The walleye will turn white when it is done cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pan-seared walleye is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice, a side of tartar sauce, or a lemon and caper pan sauce. For a full meal, consider pairing it with sides like salad, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While pan-searing is a popular and convenient option, there are several other ways to cook walleye, including air frying, baking in the oven, or grilling.

Pan-seared walleye pike taste

Pan-seared walleye pike has a very mild flavour without a strong "fishy" taste. It is a firm, white fish that goes well with buttery sauces, such as lemon and caper. The fish is often served with sides like garlic cauliflower mash or oven-roasted Brussels sprouts with apple cider vinegar.

The taste of pan-seared walleye pike can be enhanced by using a variety of seasonings, such as lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. The fish can also be dredged in a flour and crushed cracker mixture before pan-searing to create a crispy golden crust.

When cooked, the walleye pike fillets will turn white and opaque, with a golden colour on the outside. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, but on average, it takes around 4-5 minutes per side to cook the fish thoroughly.

Overall, the taste of pan-seared walleye pike is mild, flaky, and juicy, making it a delicious and versatile option for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Pan-seared walleye pike alternatives

Pan-seared walleye pike is a delicious dish, but what are some alternatives? This method of cooking is versatile and can be applied to a variety of different fish. Here are some alternatives to consider:

Cod

Cod is a white fish with a flaky, mild flavour and a firm texture. It is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Cod is also usually easy to find in most markets and is a budget-friendly option.

Haddock

Haddock has a mildly sweet and earthy flavour, similar to pike. Its texture is slightly more delicate than pike, but it still holds up well when cooked. Haddock is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Catfish

Catfish is an excellent alternative for those who enjoy the earthy flavour and firm texture of pike. This versatile fish is widely available and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, frying, poaching, and broiling. Catfish is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins.

Mahi-Mahi

Also known as dorado or dolphin fish, mahi-mahi has a mild taste and firm texture. While the flavour may not perfectly match the subtle sweetness of pike, it is a nutritious option, rich in protein and essential nutrients. Mahi-mahi can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried.

Sea Bass

Sea bass is often found in high-end cuisine and is known for its delicate, mild flavour and moist, flaky texture. It can be grilled, baked, fried, or steamed, and is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Walleye

Walleye has a similar earthy, mildly sweet flavour to pike, and its texture is dense and firm. It is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Walleye can be grilled, baked, or fried and is a popular choice in the Midwest.

Other Alternatives

In addition to these fish options, there are also some plant-based alternatives that can be used as pike substitutes, such as tofu, eggplant, seitan, tempeh, jackfruit, and hearts of palm. These alternatives can provide a similar texture and, with the right seasonings, can mimic the flavour of pike.

Pan-seared walleye pike side dishes

Pan-seared walleye pike is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for sides that will complement the mild, buttery flavours of the fish:

Starches

• Cheesy scalloped potatoes
• Potato salad
• Slow cooker mashed potatoes
• Twice-baked potatoes
• Rice

Salads

• Caesar salad
• Israeli couscous salad
• Homemade Caesar salad

Vegetables

• Broccoli
• Smoked potatoes in foil
• Smoked asparagus
• Garlic cauliflower mash
• Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts with apple cider vinegar

Other seafood

Garlicky shrimp Alfredo

Breads

Air fryer garlic bread

Frequently asked questions