Getting the most out of your fresh catch, whether it’s from a fishing trip or a market purchase, can be a culinary delight. Walleye, a mild-flavored fish with a flaky texture, lends itself perfectly to a variety of cooking methods and flavors. In this collection of 20 crispy walleye recipes, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of walleye cuisine, from classic preparations like pan-frying and grilling, to more adventurous takes like beer-battering and tacos.
From comforting chowders and creamy risottos, to zesty salads and spicy fritters, there’s something for every palate and occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends with a unique dinner party main course or simply want to mix things up in the kitchen, these walleye recipes are sure to please.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 mouthwatering recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for cooking perfection. So go ahead, get hooked on the world of walleye cuisine!
Pan-Fried Walleye with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic combination of crispy walleye and tangy lemon butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the walleye fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. Place the walleye fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the walleye is cooking, combine lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Remove the walleye from the pan and place on a plate. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top of each fillet. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Beer-Battered Walleye with Tartar Sauce
Experience the perfect harmony of crispy batter and tender walleye with this easy-to-make recipe. A refreshing dollop of tartar sauce adds a tangy contrast to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Tartar sauce, store-bought or homemade
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add beer, stirring until batter forms.
3. Dip each walleye fillet into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered walleye for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Walleye with Garlic Herb Butter
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and simple recipe that combines the richness of walleye with the savory taste of garlic herb butter. Perfect for a summer evening, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped dill until well combined.
3. Season walleye fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill walleye for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic herb butter evenly onto each fillet.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Walleye Tacos with Mango Salsa
Add a twist to traditional tacos with this flavorful recipe featuring walleye, a mild and flaky fish perfect for tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb walleye fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded lettuce
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add walleye pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill walleye for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled walleye, Mango Salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walleye Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender walleye, crispy bacon, and sweet corn, all wrapped up in a creamy broth. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb walleye fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of corn kernels
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add walleye, corn kernels, chicken broth, milk, and paprika to the pot. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Stir in cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Baked Walleye with Parmesan Crust
Walleye’s delicate flavor is elevated by a crispy Parmesan crust, making this dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful fish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each walleye fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Walleye Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Enjoy a taste of the Northwoods with these crispy walleye cakes, served with a tangy remoulade sauce. This recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or as an appetizer for your next fishing trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound walleye fillets
– 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
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Flake walleye into small pieces and mix with panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape mixture into patties and fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Walleye Piccata with Capers and White Wine
This classic Italian-inspired dish elevates the delicate flavor of walleye to new heights, thanks to the tangy zip of capers and the richness of white wine.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season walleye fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge fillets in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and garlic; cook until fragrant (30 sec).
5. Add floured fillets to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for an additional 3-4 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and stir in capers, white wine, and parsley. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoked Walleye Dip with Crackers
A creamy and smoky dip that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining. This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked walleye with a tangy cream cheese mixture, served with crunchy crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stir in the crushed crackers.
4. Spoon the dip into a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and slightly puffed.
6. Garnish with chopped chives or scallions, if desired.
7. Serve warm with additional crackers on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walleye Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Get ready to savor the flaky goodness of walleye fish paired with a refreshing crunch of coleslaw, all wrapped up in a soft bun. This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 1 head of cabbage, shredded
+ 1 carrot, peeled and grated
+ 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Season the walleye fillets with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Cook the walleye for 4-5 minutes per side, or until flaky and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the coleslaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each bun, followed by a piece of walleye, a spoonful of coleslaw, and finishing with the top bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walleye Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of walleye fish with a colorful medley of vegetables, making for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb walleye fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add walleye pieces and cook until opaque and flaky, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and snow peas; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return walleye to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Walleye en Papillote with Herbs and Citrus
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic French method of cooking fish en papillote, where the fish is wrapped in parchment paper and cooked to perfection. This version adds a burst of citrus flavor and freshness from the herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Place a walleye fillet on each piece of parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Spoon the citrus-herb mixture over the fish, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Fold the parchment paper over the fish, creating a tight seal.
6. Place the packets in a baking dish and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Walleye Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry recipe combines the tender walleye fish with aromatic spices and rich coconut milk, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb walleye fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 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 turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add walleye pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Walleye Kebabs with Bell Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines tender walleye fillets with sweet bell peppers for a delicious summer dinner. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a BBQ gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound walleye fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add walleye pieces and toss to coat.
3. Thread walleye, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until walleye is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Walleye Salad with Avocado and Lime
Walleye Salad with Avocado and Lime: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Recipe
This light and zesty salad is the perfect way to enjoy fresh walleye, combined with creamy avocado and a squeeze of lime juice. With its bright flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked walleye, flaked
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cumin or paprika for added depth
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flaked walleye, mixed greens, and chopped red bell pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Add diced avocado to the dressing mixture and gently fold until combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the fish mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional cumin or paprika.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional avocado slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Walleye Po’ Boy with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of crispy walleye, creamy spicy mayo, and crunchy slaw. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 walleye fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Mayo (see below for recipe)
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 crusty baguette rolls
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each walleye fillet in flour, shaking off excess, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook walleye for 3-4 minutes per side or until crispy and cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading Spicy Mayo on each baguette roll, topping with a walleye fillet, and finishing with coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walleye Risotto with Asparagus
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of walleye with the creamy richness of risotto and the tender crunch of asparagus. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound walleye fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup asparagus spears, trimmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add walleye and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking risotto, add asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walleye Burgers with Dill Aioli
A twist on the classic burger, these Walleye Burgers pack a punch of flavor and freshness with the addition of dill aioli. Perfect for a summer cookout or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb walleye fillets, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Dill aioli (see below for recipe)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine flaked walleye, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with dill aioli, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (if using).
Dill Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Walleye Fritters with Sweet Chili Sauce
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these crispy walleye fritters served with a sweet and tangy chili sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound walleye fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each walleye piece into the beaten egg and then coat with the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated walleye pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot with Sweet Chili Sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Walleye Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce
A rich and creamy pasta dish that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of walleye. This recipe is a great way to elevate a weeknight dinner into a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz walleye fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked walleye pieces to the cream sauce and stir to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, walleye mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to hook your taste buds with these 20 crispy walleye recipes for every occasion! From classic pan-fried and beer-battered dishes to innovative tacos, chowders, and kebabs, this collection has something for everyone. Impress your friends with garlic herb butter grilled walleye or serve up a hearty fish sandwich. For a lighter option, try the baked walleye with parmesan crust or the po’ boy with spicy mayo. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to reel in rave reviews. Dive into the deliciousness and start cooking today!