Walleye Recipe for Air Fryer: Crispy, Healthy, and Delicious

If you love crispy, golden fish fillets but want a healthier alternative to deep frying, this Walleye Recipe for Air Fryer is the perfect solution. Walleye, a freshwater fish known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, is an excellent choice for a quick and easy dinner. Cooking it in an air fryer requires minimal oil, reduces calories, and still delivers a deliciously crunchy crust. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and ensures restaurant-quality results at home.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to prepare this dish: ingredients, detailed instructions, nutritional information, and pro tips to make the most out of your air fryer.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Resting Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 24 minutes

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg

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Ingredients

For this Walleye Recipe for Air Fryer, you’ll need simple, everyday ingredients:

1. Walleye Fillets: 4 fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2. Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (Panko works best for extra crunch)
3. Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated
4. Flour: ½ cup (all-purpose or gluten-free)
5. Eggs: 2, beaten
6. Paprika: 1 teaspoon
7. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
8. Salt: ½ teaspoon
9. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
10. Olive Oil Spray: For a light coating

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Equipment

• Air Fryer: Any model with a 4-quart capacity or larger
• Mixing Bowls: At least 3 for dredging ingredients
• Tongs: For handling the fish
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray: To coat the air fryer basket

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Walleye Fillets

1. Rinse the walleye fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides of the fish with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

1. Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
2. Beat the eggs in a second shallow bowl.
3. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Fillets

1. Dredge each fillet in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated, then shake off any excess.
2. Dip the floured fillet into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coat.
3. Press the fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Walleye

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the breaded walleye fillets in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding.
3. Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with olive oil for extra crispiness.
4. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fillets should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let the cooked walleye rest for 2 minutes to allow the crust to set.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a side of fresh salad.

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Walleye: Fresh fish makes a big difference in taste and texture. Frozen walleye can work if properly thawed.
2. Breadcrumbs: For the crispiest result, use Panko breadcrumbs.
3. Air Fryer Basket: Don’t overcrowd the basket. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even crisping.
4. Seasoning Variations: Add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a herby twist.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Walleye?

Air frying is a healthier alternative to deep frying. It uses hot air circulation to create a crispy crust with minimal oil, reducing calories and unhealthy fats. This method is also faster and less messy than traditional frying, making it ideal for weeknight meals.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your air-fried walleye with these sides for a complete meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or carrots.
• Coleslaw: A tangy slaw complements the crispy fish beautifully.
• Rice or Quinoa: Add a hearty grain to make it more filling.

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Conclusion

This Walleye Recipe for Air Fryer is a game-changer for fish lovers. It’s quick, healthy, and irresistibly crispy—perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can enjoy restaurant-quality walleye at home with significantly fewer calories and fats.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees impressive results. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it again and again!