Learn how to cook frozen fish fillets quickly and easily using an Instant Pot. This method steams the fish to tender, flaky perfection in just minutes, making it a convenient option for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Author:Lilya
Prep Time:2 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes (including time to come to pressure)
Total Time:14 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Instant Pot
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
1-1½ pounds cod fillet (each ½ inch thick, 4 pieces)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Liquid
1 cup water
Instructions
Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot insert. Place the metal trivet inside to keep the fish elevated above the water.
Place the Fish: Arrange the frozen cod fillets on the trivet in a single layer. Season the fish evenly with salt and black pepper, as well as any additional seasonings you prefer.
Seal and Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and turn the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 2 minutes on high pressure. The pot will take 8 to 10 minutes to reach pressure before the cooking timer starts.
Release Pressure and Check: Once cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure valve carefully. Open the lid and use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the fish is at least 140°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Additional Cooking if Needed: If the fish is not yet fully cooked, reseal the lid and cook for an additional 30 seconds at high pressure.
Serve or Use in Recipes: Carefully remove the trivet with the cooked fish. Discard any remaining cooking liquid. Serve the cod fillets immediately or use them in your favorite fish recipes.
Notes
Ensure the fillets are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to guarantee fish is fully cooked without overcooking.
You can add herbs or lemon slices on top of the fish for extra flavor before cooking.
Be cautious when releasing pressure to avoid burns from steam.
This method works well for other types of white fish as well.