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garlic butter white fish skillet

Garlic Butter White Fish Skillet

A quick and flavorful garlic butter white fish skillet that’s golden, tender, and juicy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to make with fresh ingredients and ready in under 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 white fish fillets cod, haddock, or pacific white fish
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

  1. Prep the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt completely.
  3. Cook the Fish: Lay the fish fillets in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without touching. Flip carefully and cook another 3 minutes until opaque and flaky.
  4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat slightly. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Squeeze in the lemon juice.
  5. Combine and Serve: Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the cooked fillets. Sprinkle with parsley if you like. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Use fresh fish for the best taste. If using frozen fillets, thaw completely and pat dry.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
  • Lemon juice should be added at the end to keep the fish tender.
  • You can swap parsley with dill or thyme for a slightly different flavor.
  • Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.