How Long Does it Take to Fry Fish at 350 Degrees?

Fried fish is a delicious meal that can be prepared quickly and easily. When frying fish at 350 degrees Fahrenheit the cooking time can vary based on the size and thickness of the fish as well as whether it is fried whole or in fillets. In this article, we’ll provide a helpful guide on determining the perfect frying time for fish at 350 degrees.

Key Factors That Impact Frying Time

There are a few key factors that impact how long it takes to fry fish at 350 degrees

• Type of fish – Lean, delicate fish like tilapia or sole cook faster than fattier, flaky fish like salmon or catfish.

• Thickness – Thicker fish fillets take longer to cook through than thinner ones. Measure thickness to determine time.

• Whole vs fillet – Whole fish or steaks require more time than fillets or nuggets.

• Coating – Breaded or battered coatings increase frying time slightly.

• Oil temperature – Temperature should be maintained at 350°F. Higher temp = faster cooking.

• Doneness – Cook time varies based on preferred doneness from rare to well-done.

• Size of pieces – Larger fillets or whole fish take longer than smaller pieces or nuggets.

• Type of oil – Lighter oils like vegetable or canola require less time than heavier oils like peanut.

Estimated Fry Times for Common Fish Types

Here are estimated frying times as a general guideline for 350°F oil:

• Tilapia fillets, 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick – 2 to 3 minutes per side

• Sole or flounder fillets, 1/4-inch thick – 1 to 2 minutes per side

• Salmon fillets, 1-inch thick – 4 to 5 minutes per side

• Halibut or cod fillets, 1-inch thick – 4 to 6 minutes per side

• Catfish nuggets, 1-2 inches – 2 to 4 minutes

• Whole small panfish or smelt – 2 to 4 minutes

• Whole medium trout – 6 to 8 minutes

• Whole large fish like snapper – 8 to 12 minutes

Tips for Perfectly Fried Fish

Follow these tips for crispy, golden brown fish fillets or whole fish when frying at 350°F:

• Pat fish dry before coating to maximize browning.

• Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F oil temperature.

• Work in small batches to keep oil temperature consistent.

• Turn fish gently halfway through frying time.

• Cook until coating is crispy and fish is opaque and flakes easily.

• Drain on a wire rack or paper towels before serving.

• Check internal temp with a meat thermometer if unsure. Fish should reach 145°F.

• Adjust time up or down if frying thicker or thinner fish.

• Whole fish may need longer pre-frying with the cavity side down first.

How to Tell When Fish is Done Frying

It can be tricky to gauge doneness, but here are some ways to test if your fried fish is ready:

• Coating is golden brown and crispy

• Fish flakes easily with a fork

• Flesh is opaque throughout

• Fish separates easily from the bone if frying whole fish

• Internal temperature reaches 140-145°F

• Let fillets rest 1-2 minutes after frying – the temperature will rise slightly

If the coating is brown but the fish seems undercooked, fry it a minute or two longer until the center is opaque and flaky. Use a meat thermometer to double check doneness.

Frying Oil Temperature

Maintaining the proper oil temperature is key for perfect fried fish. Overheating the oil will result in a burnt exterior and undercooked interior. Here are some tips:

• Use a deep fry or candy thermometer to monitor temperature.

• Let the oil heat to 350°F before adding fish. This may take 5-10 minutes.

• Adjust stovetop heat to maintain 350°F oil temperature.

• Give oil 30 seconds to reheat between batches.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – fry in small batches.

• If oil starts smoking, it’s overheated – let it cool before continuing.

Frying at the ideal 350°F oil temperature will ensure your fish gets crispy and cooked through every time. Just be sure to keep watch on the thermometer and adjust as needed.

Serving Up Delicious Fried Fish

Once you’ve determined the perfect frying time for the fish you’re cooking at 350 degrees, all that’s left is to garnish and serve it up! Fried fish is amazing on its own, but here are some tasty ways to serve it:

• Fish tacos – fried cod or tilapia fillets with cabbage, pico and chipotle crema

• Fish sandwich – fried fillet on a bun with tartar sauce and lettuce

• Fish and chips – golden fried whitefish with french fries and malt vinegar

• Fried catfish platter – with hushpuppies, coleslaw and fried okra

• Po’ boy sandwich – fried shrimp, oysters or catfish on a New Orleans-style loaf

• Fish sticks – fun meal for kids, served with tater tots or fries

• Fried whole fish – a dramatic presentation, garnished with lemon and parsley

Fried fish is a quick, easy and satisfying meal. By following the estimated frying times and oil temperature tips above, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly fried results every time. Just be flexible and adjust cook times according to the size and thickness of the fish you are cooking. Soon you’ll be an expert on frying up crispy, golden fish fillets and whole fish at 350 degrees.