How to Cook Frozen Fish - 4 Cooking Methods for Frozen Fish

by Kyle Lee August 28, 2023

As a home cook, forgetting to take your fish out to thaw before cooking it is a huge bummer. Fortunately, cooking fish straight out of the freezer is possible! If you’re unsure how to cook frozen fish, you’ve come to the right guide.

This article will tell you how to cook frozen fish in four ways: in the air fryer, oven, pan, and steamer.

Can I Cook Frozen Fish?

While it's generally recommended to thaw fish for better results, you can still cook it frozen by adjusting cooking times. Ensure the fish is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Related: Fish Cooking Temperature Guide

Cooking Methods for Frozen Fish

Cooking frozen fish can be straightforward if you follow a few key steps. Here's an essential guide on how to cook frozen fish:

How to Cook Frozen Fish in an Air Fryer

Air fryers provide a quick and convenient way to achieve crispy and flavorful results. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook frozen fish in an air fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
Remove the frozen fish fillets from their packaging, patting them dry with paper towels. Season the fillets and add a drizzle of cooking oil spray to enhance the crispiness.
Place the seasoned fish fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there's some space between each fillet for proper air circulation.
Place the basket in the preheated air fryer and cook the frozen fish fillets for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Flip the fillets halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
Use a cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature.

How to Cook Frozen Fish in an Oven

Cooking frozen fish in the oven is simple and yields delicious results. Here's how to do it:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a nicely browned exterior.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Remove the frozen fish fillets from their packaging. Pat them dry, seasoning them as you desire.
Place the seasoned frozen fish fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Leave at least an inch of space between each fillet.
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fish for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
If you're using a cooking thermometer, check the internal temperature of the fish.

How to Cook Frozen Fish in a Pan

Cooking frozen fish in a pan is a quick and easy method that results in flavorful and tender fish fillets. Here's how to do it:

Unpack and dry the fillets, seasoning them as you please.
Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil and let it heat up.
Carefully place the frozen fish fillets in the pan once the oil is hot.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should become opaque and flake off when tested with a fork.
Use a spatula or tongs to flip the fillets halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Use a cooking thermometer to ensure your fish is cooked.
Remove it from the pan once it achieves a nice golden-brown exterior.

How to Cook Frozen Fish in a Steamer

Cooking frozen fish in a steamer is a gentle method that preserves the fish's moisture and flavor. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Prepare your fillets by patting them dry and seasoning them.
If using an electric steamer, fill the water reservoir according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you're using a stovetop steamer, fill the bottom part with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Place the seasoned frozen fish fillets in a single layer on the steamer basket or the steaming tray. Ensure they don’t overlap.
Place the steamer basket or tray with the fish over the simmering water.
Cover the steamer with a lid and steam the fish for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish. It should flake easily and be opaque. Alternatively, use a cooking thermometer.

Kyle’s Tips When Cooking Frozen Fish

Here are some helpful tips for cooking frozen fish:

Thawing: Thawing fish before cooking often yields better results. Use methods like refrigerator thawing or cold water thawing for even cooking.
Adjust cooking time: If cooking from frozen, extend the cooking time by about 50% compared to thawed fish. Monitor doneness using internal temperature or texture.
Preheat properly: Preheat your oven, pan, steamer, or air fryer before cooking for consistent results.
Use oil sparingly: When pan-frying, use a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. For air frying, a light oil spray can aid crispiness.
Don't overcrowd: Ensure enough space between fillets for proper cooking. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Keep an eye on texture: Overcooking can make fish dry, so monitor texture as it cooks—fish should flake easily but still be moist.

Mastering the art of cooking frozen fish is a life-saver, as consuming undercooked fish can harm your health.

Conclusion

Knowing how to cook frozen fish using various methods can save you much time, especially when cooking for a larger group. It isn’t always ideal, but knowing the ropes can help guarantee a safe and delicious meal.