Pan Fried Perch

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbyellow perch fillets$17.75
• 0.5 cupall-purpose flour$0.42
• 4 tbspunsalted butter$1.53
• 4 eachlemon wedges$1.17
• 2 tbspfresh parsley, chopped$0.70
• 1 tspkosher salt$0.03
• 0.5 tspblack pepper$0.20
• 0.5 tsppaprika$0.20
• Total for 4 servings$22.00

Most of the cost is yellow perch fillets ($17.75) and unsalted butter ($1.53). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $21.35. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Thoroughly pat the yellow perch fillets dry on both sides using paper towels to ensure a crisp sear.
2. In a wide, shallow bowl or dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Dredge each fillet through the seasoned flour mixture, shaking gently to remove any excess so only a light coating remains.
4. Melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot and bubbling.
5. Add half of the fillets in a single layer without crowding the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the undersides are golden brown, then flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, reaching 145°F (63°C). Transfer to a warm plate.
6. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet over medium-high heat and fry the remaining fillets for 2 to 3 minutes per side until crisp, golden, and cooked through.
7. Scatter the chopped fresh parsley, evenly over the warm fried perch fillets.
8. Serve immediately with the lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.