When it comes to cooking fish, many people are intimidated by the thought of overcooking or underseasoning their catch. But with crappie, a mild-flavored freshwater fish, you can’t go wrong. In fact, crappie is often considered one of the most versatile fish species when it comes to preparing delicious meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered with these 18 savory crappie recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic pan-frying techniques to innovative flavor combinations like grilled crappie tacos and blackened crappie with Cajun seasoning, there’s something on this list for every occasion. And don’t worry if you’re new to cooking fish – these recipes are designed to be approachable and easy to follow, even for the most inexperienced cooks.
So dive in (pun intended) and explore the many flavors of crappie below!
Pan-Fried Crappie with Lemon Butter Sauce
A delicious and flavorful recipe that combines the tender crappie fish with a tangy lemon butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 crappie fillets (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the crappie fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and swirl to melt.
3. Add the crappie fillets to the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Flip the fillets over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the lemon butter sauce by whisking together the lemon juice, garlic, and parsley in a small bowl.
6. Serve the crappie with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Crappie Tacos with Mango Salsa
Savor the flavors of the Gulf Coast with these crispy tacos filled with grilled crappie, tangy mango salsa, and crunchy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound crappie fillets
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Queso fresco or shredded cheese
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 to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place crappie fillets in the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.
4. Grill crappie for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled crappie, Mango Salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Crappie Cakes with Spicy Remoulade
A twist on traditional crab cakes, this recipe features crispy crappie patties served with a tangy and spicy remoulade sauce. Perfect for a seafood-inspired appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crappie fillets, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crappie, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, prepare remoulade by whisking together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce in a small bowl.
6. Serve crappie cakes with remoulade sauce and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Crappie with Garlic and Herbs
A flavorful and moist crappie dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of crappie with the pungency of garlic and the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 crappie fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place crappie fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle minced garlic evenly among the fillets.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley and thyme over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crappie Chowder with Corn and Potatoes
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of fresh crappie, sweet corn, and tender potatoes, all simmered together in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crappie fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add crappie, potatoes, corn, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Blackened Crappie with Cajun Seasoning
A classic Southern dish gets a bold twist with this recipe that combines the flaky white fish of crappie with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. The result is a flavorful and aromatic main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 crappie fillets (about 1 lb total)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse the crappie fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
4. Place the crappie fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the Cajun butter mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crappie Nuggets with Homemade Tartar Sauce
Crappie Nuggets with Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the flaky goodness of crappie fish with the tangy zip of homemade tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound crappie fillets, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
+ 2 tablespoons lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip crappie nuggets into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated nuggets in hot oil (375°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. For tartar sauce, combine mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve fried crappie nuggets with homemade tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crappie Po’ Boy Sandwich with Pickles and Slaw
Crappie Po’ Boy Sandwich with Pickles and Slaw
This mouthwatering sandwich is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, featuring crispy fried crappie, tangy slaw, and sweet pickles on toasted French bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup crappie fillets, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Sliced pickles, for serving
Instructions:
- Fry crappie strips in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- To assemble the sandwich, place a few fried crappie pieces on toasted French bread, followed by a dollop of slaw and a few pickle slices.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 10-12 minutes to fry the crappie, plus an additional 5-7 minutes to prepare the slaw and assemble the sandwich.
Crappie Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Soy Glaze
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry dish that combines the delicate taste of crappie fish with a sweet and savory soy glaze, all wrapped up in a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crappie fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the crappie and cook until opaque and flaky, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Pour the glaze over the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return the crappie to the pan and stir-fry everything together until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crappie Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Discover the fresh flavors of this delightful ceviche, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound crappie fillets, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine crappie pieces and lime juice.
2. Add chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper; stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Crappie Fritters with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Get ready for a Southern treat that’s perfect for your next fish fry or outdoor gathering! These crispy Crappie Fritters paired with a tangy Spicy Dipping Sauce are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crappie fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add crappie pieces to the flour mixture and toss until coated.
3. Dip each floured piece into buttermilk, then coat with additional flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve warm with Crappie Fritters.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes for frying the fritters.
Crappie Alfredo Pasta with Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish featuring crappie, a mild-flavored fish perfect for weeknight meals. This recipe combines the flavors of alfredo sauce, parmesan cheese, and succulent crappie for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb crappie fillets, cooked and flaked
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add flaked crappie, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the alfredo sauce mixture and toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Crappie Dip with Crackers
A delicious and savory dip perfect for your next gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped smoked crappie (about 1-2 fillets)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers or pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add the chopped smoked crappie, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until combined.
4. Transfer the dip to a baking dish or ramekin and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and slightly puffed.
5. Serve the dip with crackers or pita chips.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crappie Jambalaya with Rice and Sausage
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic Louisiana dish, jambalaya! This Crappie Jambalaya recipe combines the sweetness of crappie fish with the bold flavors of sausage and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crappie fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the crappie, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Crappie Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines succulent crappie fillets with cheese and bell peppers for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 crappie fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add crappie fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with a crappie fillet, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. Place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crappie Kebabs with Pineapple and Peppers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful kebabs that combine the sweetness of pineapple, crunch of peppers, and tender crappie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crappie fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add crappie pieces and toss to coat.
3. Thread crappie, pineapple chunks, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place kebabs on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crappie Quiche with Spinach and Feta
This quiche is a delicious twist on the classic combination of crappie, spinach, and feta cheese. Perfect for brunch or dinner, it’s an easy and impressive dish to serve.
Ingredients:
• 1 pie crust
• 1 pound crappie fillets, cooked and flaked
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup grated feta cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked crappie, spinach, and feta cheese to the egg mixture; stir to combine.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crappie Sushi Rolls with Avocado and Cucumber
Crappie Sushi Rolls with Avocado and Cucumber Recipe
Experience the unique fusion of flavors and textures with this innovative recipe that combines crappie fish with the freshness of avocado and cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked crappie fillets, flaked
– 1/2 avocado, diced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the nori sheet into desired size for rolling.
2. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of soy sauce and sesame oil evenly, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Arrange the flaked crappie fish in the middle of the nori sheet.
4. Add sliced avocado and cucumber on top of the crappie.
5. Fold the bottom half of the nori up over the filling, then roll the sushi tightly but gently.
6. Slice into desired size and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to reel in the flavors with these 18 savory crappie recipes! From classic dishes like pan-fried crappie with lemon butter sauce and baked crappie with garlic and herbs, to bold fusion dishes like grilled crappie tacos with mango salsa and blackened crappie with Cajun seasoning. You’ll also find creative twists on seafood favorites like crappie cakes with spicy remoulade and crappie quiche with spinach and feta. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of chowder or a refreshing ceviche, there’s something for every occasion.
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