When it comes to cooking with frozen fish, many people assume that it’s a lost cause. However, with the right techniques and flavorful combinations, you can transform your frozen catch into mouth-watering meals that will impress even the pickiest eaters. In this article, we’ll explore 20 scrumptious frozen fish recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
From crispy tacos to savory curries, and from classic fish and chips to innovative stir-fries, these recipes showcase the versatility of frozen fish. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of simple yet impressive dishes.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of frozen fish cooking and discover how to turn your freezer staples into unforgettable meals.
Crispy Baked Frozen Fish Tacos
Transform frozen fish into a crispy, flavorful taco delight with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen cod or tilapia fillets (thawed)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro, and your favorite taco toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lime juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing cooked fish onto tortillas, followed by your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Frozen Cod
Elevate your frozen cod game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the ease of frozen fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen cod fillets, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Frozen Tilapia
Reinvigorate your seafood game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the subtlety of herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 frozen tilapia fillets, thawed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill.
5. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Frozen Fish Curry
A flavorful and spicy curry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe uses frozen fish fillets, so you can skip the hassle of fresh fish prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the frozen fish fillets, diced tomatoes, and peas and carrots; stir to combine.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Panko-Crusted Frozen Fish Sticks
Transform frozen fish sticks into a gourmet treat by coating them with crispy Panko breadcrumbs and baking to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen fish sticks
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place frozen fish sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs and olive oil.
5. Dip each fish stick into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
6. Sprinkle salt to taste over the coated fish sticks.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Frozen Fish and Veggies
Get a delicious meal on the table in no time with this simple recipe that requires just one pan and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 cups mixed veggies (frozen, such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides.
3. Place the frozen fish fillets in the center of the skillet.
4. Arrange the mixed veggies around the fish, leaving a small border between the fish and the edge of the pan.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the veggies and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and squeeze lemon juice over the top.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Style Frozen Catfish
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Louisiana with this easy and delicious Cajun-style frozen catfish recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 catfish fillets (1-2 pounds)
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the catfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning blend evenly over the catfish, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Drizzle the olive oil, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce over the catfish, taking care not to oversaturate.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the catfish flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Fish Chowder
Warm up with a hearty and comforting bowl of Frozen Fish Chowder! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with protein and flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen fish fillets (whitefish or cod work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock as a substitute)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in fish stock and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add frozen fish fillets and cook until thawed and flaky, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and dried thyme.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Frozen Salmon
Transform frozen salmon into a flavorful and aromatic dish with this easy Teriyaki glaze recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen salmon fillets, thawed
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets
Transform frozen fish fillets into a crispy, flavorful meal with minimal effort using your air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 frozen fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the frozen fish fillets from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the fish fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Brush the top of each fillet with the olive oil mixture.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mediterranean Frozen Fish Bake
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious Mediterranean-inspired fish bake. With minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), thawed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, olives, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add the fish fillets to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Transfer the fish mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with spinach and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Fish Cakes with Tartar Sauce
This recipe yields a crispy exterior and tender interior for fish cakes, paired with a tangy and creamy tartar sauce perfect for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine flaked fish, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve hot with tartar sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish and Chips with Frozen Cod
Transform your frozen cod into a mouthwatering fish and chips dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen cod fillets (6-8 pieces)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups mixed potatoes, peeled and cut into chips (fries)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cod fillet in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated cod pieces for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss potato chips with cooking spray or oil and spread on a baking sheet.
7. Bake potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time:
– Cod: 8-10 minutes
– Potato Chips: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Fish Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Quick and delicious, this recipe combines the convenience of frozen fish with a colorful medley of vegetables for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen fish fillets (cod or tilapia work well)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Thaw the frozen fish according to package instructions.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the thawed fish and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any large pieces.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
6. Pour the soy-honey mixture over the fish and vegetables, stirring to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Frozen Haddock
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make herb-crusted haddock recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 frozen haddock fillets, thawed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place the haddock fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Fish Enchiladas
Add a twist to traditional enchiladas with this delicious and easy-to-make recipe that uses frozen fish for a protein-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen cod or tilapia, thawed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can of enchilada sauce (red or green)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the thawed fish to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by placing a tortilla in a baking dish, spooning some of the fish and vegetable mixture onto the tortilla, and rolling it up tightly. Place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Pepper Frozen Swai
Transform your frozen swai into a flavorful and refreshing dish with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen swai fillets, thawed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, black pepper, and garlic.
4. Place the swai fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the fish.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Frozen Fish Kebabs with Zesty Marinade
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines the convenience of frozen fish with a zesty marinade that will leave you hooked.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen white fish (such as cod or tilapia), thawed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the thawed fish to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated fish onto the wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Frozen Fish Po’ Boy Sandwich
This delectable sandwich is a twist on the classic po’ boy, featuring frozen fish and crispy slaw for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen fish sticks (cod or pollock work well)
– 4 po’ boy bread loaves
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, and onions)
– Mayonnaise
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place frozen fish sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, toast po’ boy bread loaves.
5. Spread remoulade sauce on each loaf.
6. Add cooked fish sticks, coleslaw mix, and mayonnaise.
7. Top with lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use leftover fish sticks for a quick snack or breakfast.
– Swap the remoulade sauce with tartar or cocktail sauce for a different flavor profile.
Quick Frozen Fish Stew with Tomatoes
This hearty stew is a lifesaver on a busy day when you need a nutritious meal in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the frozen fish fillets, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these 20 delicious frozen fish recipes! From crispy baked tacos to flavorful curries, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at garlic butter cod, lemon herb tilapia, or spicy fish curry. For a quick weeknight meal, whip up one-pan fish and veggies or Cajun-style catfish. Or, go all out with teriyaki glazed salmon or Mediterranean-inspired baked fish. These easy-to-make recipes will have you enjoying restaurant-quality meals in no time! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone.
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