This Pan Seared Lingcod is lightly seasoned and then pan seared and served with a squeeze of lemon. Serve with some sides and there you have a great meal that cooks up in minutes but presents like a restaurant quality masterpiece! Perfect for those rainy days when you can’t get outside to grill!

Pan-Seared Lingcod Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, easy and delicious meal for dinner tonight, my Pan Seared Ling Cod is the right option for you and your family.

This fleshy white fish is tender and flaky once it is cooked, and has a really mild flavor that everyone loves. Even if they aren’t the biggest fan of fish in general. 

Heck – our Panko-breaded Lingcod even won over my fried-fish-hating best friend this week, and I’m calling that a pretty big win. 

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What is lingcod?

It isn’t cod, that is what it is not!

Lingcod is a lean, saltwater fish that has a mild flavor with a hint of sweetness and a delicate, flaky texture. It is located on the West Coast of the United States from Alaska to California.

Perfect for pan searing, grilling or deep frying, it absorbs flavors so well and you can make this popular fish in a whole host of different ways.

Lingcod isn’t typically available for purchase in stores, but you can use any firm white fish for this recipe if you don’t have any West Coast fishermen in your life.

Make sure when shopping for fish that you look for firm, clean fillets that don’t have spots or any fishy smell. Just take your time when selecting your fish and ask questions if needed. A good fish-monger is worth their weight in gold if you are a seafood lover. 

Try our Walleye Recipe too!

What kind of oil should I use for pan searing?

It is totally up to you.

We used some butter and olive oil for this particular dish because we aren’t cooking at super high temperatures. For other items that might need a higher temperature, consider using oils with a higher smoke point, like avocado.

What kind of pan do I use?

Use your favorite cast iron skillet or stainless steel are the best options to get that caramelized sear on your fillets.  

Avoid non-stick for pan searing your fish, but if that’s all you have it will work, you just may not get the crispy color your looking for with pan searing.

Be careful though!

If you go non non-stick make sure the pan you are using is REALLY well-seasoned. It would be better to use a non-stick pan than to use something and end up with your fish sticking to the pan.

How do I pan sear Lingcod?

First, you will want to rinse your fish with cold water, pat it dry with a paper towel, and then season lightly.

Heat your butter/oil over medium heat. The temperature of the butter should reach around 300-325° degrees, for this recipe. Butter has a smoke point of just 350, meaning it will burn at temperatures beyond that, so don’t get it too hot!

Place your fillets gently into hot, melted butter, and allow to cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until your fish flakes easily with a fork.

Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe

What should I serve with this fish?

There are many foods that would work really well with fish. Here are some options for you to choose from, with the recipes right here on my site.

Pictured with the fish in this post is our Creamy Mushroom Risotto.

Appetizers to serve with lingcod:

1. Shrimp Ceviche (my Traeger Grilled Shrimp version of this South American appetizer)
2. Traeger Smoked Salmon (many varieties here!)
3. Bacon Ranch Dip served with bread, crackers or chips
4. Whipped Cranberry Goat Cheese

Side dishes to serve with pan seared cod:

1. Instant Pot Wild Rice
2. Pan-Fried Potato Wedges
3. Smoked Potatoes
4. Broccoli Salad
5. One-Pot Creamy Noodles
6. Ham and Pea Pasta Salad
7. Loaded Smoked Baked Potatoes
8. BLT Pasta Salad

The great advantage of serving fish as the main course is the fact that it pairs well with almost any other flavors you choose to serve with it.

It can be a light, low-calorie meal, or you can go for it and serve up your favorite comfort foods alongside.

Delicious Cocktails to Serve With Lingcod:

• Mudslide
• Tropical Rum Punch
• Raspberry Prosecco Cocktail
• Strawberry Lemon Drop

Pan Seared Lingcod

Fish is also one of the quickest for cooking and prep time, so great for times when time is limited but you still want to serve a delicious meal at home.

I love to find time-saving recipes that are easy to prepare but are still a WAY better option than any fast food choice out there. You can’t lose here.

You’ll be saving not only time but money also, and doing something nice for yourself and your family by giving them a delicious and healthy meal.

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