20 Delicious Pike Recipes for Every Occasion

When it comes to cooking fish, few species are as versatile and flavorful as pike. With its delicate flavor and firm texture, pike can be prepared in a wide range of ways to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for special guests, pike is the perfect choice.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious pike recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. From classic pan-searing and grilling techniques to more adventurous methods like smoking and ceviche-making, we’ve got you covered. So if you’re ready to elevate your seafood game and get creative with this underrated fish, read on for our top picks and recipes.

Pan-Seared Pike with Lemon Butter Sauce

This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of pike, elevated by a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce. A perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 4 pike fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pike fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the preheated pan, then sear the pike for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the pike from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley to the pan.
6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the seared pike with the warm lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Grilled Pike with Garlic and Herbs

A flavorful and aromatic fish dish that’s perfect for a summer evening. With the rich flavors of garlic, herbs, and lemon, this grilled pike is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 pike fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for grilling

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pike fillets on a plate and brush both sides with the garlic-herb mixture.
4. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the pike for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes

Pike Fish Cakes with Tartar Sauce

A classic combination of flavors and textures, these pike fish cakes are a delicious and satisfying meal option. Paired with a tangy tartar sauce, they make for a memorable dining experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pike fish fillets, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together flaked fish, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Fry fish cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve with tartar sauce and your choice of sides.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Baked Pike with White Wine and Mushrooms

Baked Pike with White Wine and Mushrooms: A flavorful and moist fish dish infused with the richness of white wine and earthy mushrooms.

Ingredients:

– 4 pike fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the pike fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together white wine, olive oil, garlic, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the fish.
5. Top each fillet with sliced mushrooms, dividing them evenly among the four pieces of 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

Pike Chowder with Corn and Potatoes

Pike Chowder with Corn and Potatoes Recipe

This hearty chowder combines the freshness of pike fish with the sweetness of corn and potatoes, making for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pike fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add pike pieces and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, corn, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in fish stock and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Smoked Pike Dip with Cream Cheese

A rich and savory dip that combines the bold flavor of smoked pike with the tanginess of cream cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup smoked pike, flaked
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the smoked pike, cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold with crackers, chips, or vegetables.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep only)

Note: Smoked pike can be substituted with other smoked fish or even cooked salmon. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce to taste.

Pike Tacos with Mango Salsa

Elevate your taco game with this unique and flavorful combination of grilled pike, crispy tortillas, and sweet mango salsa.

Ingredients:

– 4 pike fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)

Mango Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pike fillets in the marinade and let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Grill pike for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled pike onto warmed tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (marinating) + 8-10 minutes (grilling)

Pike Quenelles in Cream Sauce

A classic French recipe, Pike Quenelles in Cream Sauce is a rich and indulgent dish that showcases the delicate flavor of pike fish. This comforting meal is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pike fillets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the pike fillets into small pieces and season with salt and pepper.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly, until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add grated Gruyère cheese and stir until melted.
6. Arrange pike pieces on a baking dish and spoon the cream sauce over them.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Fried Pike Nuggets with Spicy Mayo

Experience the perfect blend of crispy and tender with these Fried Pike Nuggets, served with a tangy kick from Spicy Mayo.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pike fillets, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Mayo (store-bought or homemade, see below)

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 each pike piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry nuggets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with Spicy Mayo (mix equal parts mayonnaise and sriracha sauce).

Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes.

Pike and Potato Hash

This hearty recipe combines flaky pike with tender potatoes, onions, and herbs to create a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish. Perfect for a cold winter morning or a lazy Sunday.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb fresh or frozen pike fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the potatoes, onion, and garlic in butter until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the pike pieces to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pike Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro

This refreshing pike ceviche is a perfect blend of bold flavors and zesty freshness, perfect for warm weather or any occasion. With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh pike 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 pike pieces, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity of the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)

Pike Stuffed with Crab and Breadcrumbs

Elevate your seafood game with this delectable recipe, where tender pike is filled with a savory crab and breadcrumb mixture.

Ingredients:

– 4 pike fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, breadcrumbs, butter, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Place each pike fillet on a flat surface. Spoon the crab-breadcrumb mixture onto the center of each fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold the fillets over the filling to form a neat package. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pike Burgers with Dill Aioli

Elevate your burger game with this unique recipe featuring pike fish patties and a tangy dill aioli. Perfect for adventurous eaters and seafood lovers alike, these burgers are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pike fillets, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese (optional)
– Dill Aioli (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Mix flaked pike, panko breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese (if using).
5. Serve with Dill Aioli.

Dill Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste

Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including burger assembly)

Pike Piccata with Capers and White Wine

This classic Italian dish showcases the delicate flavor of pike fillets, elevated by a zesty white wine sauce and crunchy capers. Serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 pike fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season pike fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add pike fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove pike from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add white wine, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Serve pike fillets with sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pike en Papillote with Vegetables

A classic French recipe, Pike en Papillote is a flavorful and moist fish dish cooked to perfection in parchment paper. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 4 pike fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, onions)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of parchment paper into large squares.
3. Place a pike fillet in the center of each square, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Top each fish with a slice of lemon, some garlic, and mixed vegetables.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with thyme.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the filling to create a tight seal.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pike Curry with Coconut Milk

This rich and creamy curry is a perfect showcase for pike’s delicate flavor. With the warm spices and coconut milk, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pike fillets, cut into bite-sized 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 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, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add pike pieces and cook until opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Pike Risotto with Peas and Parmesan

Pike Risotto with Peas and Parmesan Recipe

This creamy risotto dish is a perfect showcase for pike, a mild-flavored fish that pairs well with sweet peas and nutty Parmesan cheese. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious main course in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pike 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 fresh peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When the rice is cooked and creamy, add the pike pieces and peas. Cook until the fish is flaky and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pike Kebabs with Bell Peppers

A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines the delicate taste of pike with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pike fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add pike pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Thread pike, bell pepper slices, and any remaining marinade onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pike is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Pike Soup with Fennel and Leeks

This hearty and flavorful soup is a celebration of the ocean’s bounty, pairing delicate pike fillets with sweet fennel and tender leeks. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pike fillets
– 2 bulbs fennel, chopped
– 4 leeks, chopped (white and light green parts)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup fish stock
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add fennel and leeks; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pike fillets, white wine, fish stock, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Pike Pâté with Crackers

Experience the rich flavor of pike fish paired with a savory pâté and crunchy crackers. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6 oz) package of pike fillets, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup of cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add pike fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove fish from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with the mustard mixture until smooth.
6. Flake pike into small pieces and stir into the cream cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve pâté on crackers and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious pike recipes for every occasion! From classic dishes like pan-seared pike with lemon butter sauce and baked pike with white wine and mushrooms, to innovative creations like smoked pike dip with cream cheese and pike tacos with mango salsa, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will inspire you to try new things and impress your friends and family. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the amazing versatility of pike!