Walleye Pike Fry

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbwalleye fillets$11.78
• 0.5 cupall-purpose flour$0.28
• 0.5 cupcornmeal$0.62
• 2 eachlarge eggs$2.38
• 0.5 cupwhole milk$0.39
• 1.25 cupvegetable oil for frying$3.24
• 4 eachlemon wedges$0.78
• 1 tspkosher salt$0.02
• 0.5 tspblack pepper$0.13
• 0.5 tsppaprika$0.13
• Total for 4 servings$19.75

Most of the cost is walleye fillets ($11.78) and vegetable oil for frying ($3.24). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $16.08. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Pat the walleye fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides evenly with the kosher salt and black pepper.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the large eggs and whole milk until smooth; in a second shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and paprika.
3. Pour the vegetable oil for frying into a large, heavy skillet set over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
4. Working in batches, dip each fillet into the egg wash, let the excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to coat both sides.
5. Carefully lay the coated fillets into the hot oil without crowding the pan and fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until crisp, golden brown, and the fish flakes easily to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Transfer the fried fish to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil for 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Arrange the warm fried fillets on plates and serve immediately with the lemon wedges.