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Pan Seared Walleye Fish Bites

If you’re looking for a quick and easy fish recipe that’s packed with flavor, these Pan Seared Walleye Fish Bites are about to become your new favorite! Tender chunks of fresh walleye are lightly seasoned, pan seared until perfectly golden, and finished with buttery garlic flavor and fresh herbs.

You may also like this Lemon Pepper Fish

This recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to impress family and guests. The walleye turns out light, flaky, and incredibly flavorful with a beautiful golden crust on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside.

Whether you’re a longtime walleye lover or trying it for the first time, this easy fish recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

What To Serve With Walleye Fish Bites

These fish bites pair perfectly with:

  • Roasted potatoes
  • Rice pilaf
  • Fresh salad
  • Steamed vegetables
  • Garlic butter asparagus
  • Tartar sauce or aioli
Pan Seared Walleye Fish Bites

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen walleye?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this recipe in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes.

What does walleye taste like?

Walleye has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a delicate flaky texture.

Can I use another fish?

Yes! Cod, halibut, or haddock work great too.

HOW TO MAKE PAN SEARED WALLEYE

Step 1: Prepare The Fish

Pat the walleye pieces dry with paper towels. This helps create a beautiful golden sear.

Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.


Step 2: Heat The Pan

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter.

Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the fish bites in a single layer.

Do not overcrowd the pan.


Step 3: Pan Sear The Fish

Cook the fish for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and flaky.

Carefully flip the fish bites using a spatula.


Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Reduce heat slightly and add the minced garlic.

Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and green onions.


Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately with fresh lemon slices.

Enjoy warm!


Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently in a skillet or air fryer to maintain texture.

Remember to always have fun and experiment with your cooking! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. As Julia Child once said, “Cooking is like love, it should be entered into with abandon or not at all.” So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and don’t be afraid to add your own flair to it. Bon appetite!

I am so thrilled you are reading one of my recipes, if you made this, I want to see! Follow Canadian Cooking Adventures Instagram, snap a photo, and tag and hashtag it with @canadiancookingadventures and #canadiancookingadventures

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Pan Seared Walleye Fish Bites

Pan Seared Walleye Fish Bites

Yield: 4
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs fresh walleye fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare The Fish

    Pat the walleye pieces dry with paper towels. This helps create a beautiful golden sear.

    Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

    Step 2: Heat The Pan

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter.

    Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the fish bites in a single layer.

    Do not overcrowd the pan.

    Step 3: Pan Sear The Fish

    Cook the fish for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and flaky.

    Carefully flip the fish bites using a spatula.

    Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

    Reduce heat slightly and add the minced garlic.

    Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

    Sprinkle with fresh parsley and green onions.

    Step 5: Serve

    Serve immediately with fresh lemon slices.

    Enjoy warm!

Notes

Tips For Perfect Walleye

Pat The Fish Dry

Removing excess moisture helps create the best sear.

Don’t Overcook

Walleye cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked.

Use Fresh Fish

Fresh walleye gives the best flavor and texture.

Use A Hot Pan

A properly heated skillet creates that golden crust.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 297Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 199mgSodium: 161mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 43g

These calculations are based off Nutritionix

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