Poor Man's Lobster

Name: Poor Man's Lobster
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 6 6-ounce cod fillets (frozen, not thawed); 6 cups water; 1 cup white sugar; 2 tablespoons salt; Melted butter (to brush fillets and for dipping); 1/2 lemon; Paprika (to taste); Lemon Pepper (to taste)

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Enjoy the luxurious taste of lobster without the high price tag! This is THE BEST Poor Man’s Lobster recipe, and it transforms simple FROZEN cod fillets into a tender, buttery, and flavorful dish that mimics the taste and texture of lobster. Boiled in lightly sweetened saltwater and broiled with butter and seasonings, it delivers a fresh, delicate flavor with no "fishy" taste.

A golden-broiled cod fillet with broccoli, lemon, and a warm, candlelit background.

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Pair this dish with a baked potato, coleslaw, and a slice of rye bread, and you’ve got a meal straight out of a Wisconsin supper club. The simple yet flavorful preparation allows the cod to shine, while the melted butter adds just the right amount of richness.

If this recipe sounds like a winner, you’ll definitely want to try some other Wisconsin favorites. A traditional Wisconsin fish fry is a must, complete with crispy battered fish, potato pancakes, and homemade tartar sauce. No trip to a supper club is complete without an order of deep fried cheese curds, served piping hot with a side of ranch for dipping.

To wash it all down, a refreshing brandy slush is the perfect choice, especially during the holidays. And if you’re looking for a sweet finish, a grasshopper ice cream drink—that creamy, minty Wisconsin classic—is the ultimate dessert cocktail. Whether you’re craving a taste of home or looking to experience the best of Midwest comfort food, these dishes are sure to hit the spot.

Jump to:

What is Poor Man's Lobster?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Substitutions & Variations
How to Make Poor Man's Lobster
Helpful Tips
How to Properly Serve Poor Man's Lobster
Recipe FAQs
Storage & Freezing Instructions
More Delicious Seafood Recipes You'll Love
Did you try this recipe?
Poor Man's Lobster

What is Poor Man's Lobster?

Poor Man’s Lobster is a classic Midwestern dish that offers an affordable way to enjoy the taste and texture of lobster by using white fish—most commonly cod, haddock, or halibut. The fish is gently simmered in a lightly sweetened saltwater mixture, which enhances its natural flavor and gives it a rich, tender consistency similar to lobster meat.

Here in Wisconsin, it’s a staple on Friday night fish fry menus, especially at supper clubs, where seafood lovers and skeptics alike can enjoy this flavorful, satisfying dish without the high cost of real lobster. But if you're ever in the mood to indulge in the real thing, my broiled lobster tails recipe is a must-try!

The tradition of Friday night fish fries runs deep in Wisconsin, rooted in Catholic traditions that encouraged fish consumption on Fridays. Over time, it became a beloved weekly event, with restaurants and supper clubs offering a variety of fish dishes, including fried perch, walleye, and, of course, Poor Man’s Lobster. This buttery white fish remains a go-to option for those who prefer a lighter, buttery alternative to fried fish, making it a Midwest favorite.

When prepared using the method below, the cod takes on a tender, flaky texture remarkably similar to lobster—without any overpowering "fishy" taste. Even those who typically don’t enjoy seafood love this recipe, including my own picky eaters.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

No Thawing Required – The cod fillets should be cooked straight from frozen, making this recipe incredibly convenient and perfect for last-minute meals.
Tastes Like Lobster – The unique cooking method gives cod a delicate, buttery texture that closely resembles lobster, without any "fishy" flavor.
Simple Ingredients – You only need a handful of pantry staples like salt, sugar, butter, and lemon to create this impressive dish.
Budget-Friendly – Enjoy the taste of lobster without the expensive price tag, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself on a budget. If you’re looking for another affordable yet impressive dish, be sure to check out my Poor Man’s Prime Rib recipe—it’s a hearty, flavorful option for special occasions or weeknight dinners.
Supper Club Favorite – A classic in Wisconsin fish fries and supper clubs, this dish brings a touch of Midwestern comfort right to your table.
Kid-Approved – Even picky eaters who usually shy away from fish love this recipe, making it a great family-friendly option.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to make this low-cost lobster alternative!

Frozen Cod Fillets – Using frozen cod ensures a firm texture while cooking, helping it mimic the flakiness and bite of lobster. No need to thaw, making it extra convenient.
White Sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to the poaching liquid, neutralizing any fishy taste and enhancing the delicate, slightly sweet flavor of lobster meat.
Salt – Works with the sugar to season the fish as it cooks, enhancing its natural flavor while also helping to firm up the texture.
Melted Butter – The key to achieving that rich, indulgent, lobster-like experience. Brushing the fillets before broiling and serving with butter for dipping takes the dish to the next level.
Lemon – Brightens up the dish with fresh citrus flavor, balancing the richness of the butter and enhancing the seafood taste.
Paprika – Adds a touch of warmth and subtle smoky depth while giving the fish a light golden color.
Lemon-Pepper Seasoning – Brings in extra zesty citrus notes and mild spice, complementing the natural sweetness of the fish.

See recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Substitutions & Variations

Fish Substitutions – While cod is the most common choice, you can also use haddock, pollock, or halibut for a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to use frozen fillets for the best results.
Sweetener Swap – If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute it with honey, monk fruit sweetener, or Splenda. Keep in mind that sugar helps balance the flavor and enhances the lobster-like taste, so adjustments may slightly alter the final result.
Seasoning Options – Instead of lemon-pepper seasoning, try Old Bay seasoning for a more classic seafood flavor or garlic powder for an extra savory touch. A sprinkle of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a bit of heat.
Dairy-Free Option – If you need to avoid butter, use a plant-based butter alternative that has a similar consistency, but avoid margarine as it’s too watery and won’t give the same rich flavor.
Baking Instead of Broiling – If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the fish at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes until flaky. It won’t have the same slightly crisped, buttery top, but it will still be tender and delicious.
Serving Variations – While this dish is traditionally served with melted butter, you can switch things up by dipping it in garlic butter, herb butter, or even a light aioli for extra flavor. Pair it with classic supper club sides like baked potatoes, coleslaw, or rye bread for the full Wisconsin experience.

How to Make Poor Man's Lobster

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, preheat your broiler, line a broiler pan with foil, shape it to drain excess liquid, spray with nonstick spray and follow the steps below for this easy Poor Man's Lobster recipe.

A clear measuring cup pouring water over frozen cod fillets in a saucepan, preparing them for cooking.

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of salt, stir well, then pour the mixture over cod fillets in a large saucepan, ensuring the fish is fully submerged; bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 3 to 5 minutes based on the fillets' thickness.

Perfectly broiled cod fillets with a tender texture, lightly golden and topped with fresh parsley.

Step 2: Remove the cod from the water with tongs taking care not to break the fillets in half. Place the cod fillets on the foil-lined broiler pan and blot away the excess water.

A silicone brush coating cod fillets with melted butter for a rich, flavorful finish.

Step 3: Brush some melted butter on the tops of the fillets.

Cod fillets brushed with butter and seasoned with paprika and lemon-pepper, arranged on foil for broiling.

Step 4: Sprinkle on some lemon pepper seasoning and paprika.

A hand squeezing fresh lemon juice over seasoned cod fillets before broiling.

Step 5: Squeeze some lemon juice over all of the fillets and put under the broiler on low for about 7 minutes or until fish flakes with a fork.

A close-up of a broiled cod fillet, golden and glistening with melted butter, garnished with parsley.

Step 6: Cod is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). At this point, the fish will turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. Be sure to check the temperature in the thickest part of the fillet for accuracy.

A piece of Poor Man’s Lobster showcasing the flaky, buttery cod fillet served with broccoli and lemon.

Helpful Tips

Use Frozen Cod – This recipe is designed to work best with frozen fillets. No need to thaw beforehand; cooking them straight from frozen helps maintain their texture.
Check for Doneness – Cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and turns opaque white. It should flake easily with a fork.
Don’t Skip the Sugar – The sugar in the water mixture is key to balancing flavors and mimicking the slight sweetness of lobster. If you prefer less sugar, adjust carefully but don’t leave it out entirely.
Keep the Fish Submerged – Make sure the cod is fully covered by the water mixture while boiling. Add more water if needed to ensure even cooking.
Keep the Boil Gentle – Avoid letting the water come to a rolling boil while cooking the fish. A gentle simmer ensures the cod cooks evenly, absorbs the sweetness from the sugar, and stays tender. A hard boil can overcook the fish, making it tough and dry.
Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness – Thicker fillets may need closer to 5 minutes of boiling, while thinner ones will cook in about 3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Squeezing fresh lemon over the fillets enhances the seafood flavor and balances the richness of the butter.
Broiler Tips – Keep an eye on the broiler to avoid overcooking. The fillets should have a light golden top but remain moist and tender.
Serve Immediately – For the best flavor and texture, serve Poor Man’s Lobster hot with melted butter for dipping and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Customize the Seasoning – Experiment with other spices like garlic powder, Old Bay, or smoked paprika to suit your taste.

A fork holding a piece of cod above a ramekin of melted butter, ready for the ultimate indulgence.

How to Properly Serve Poor Man's Lobster

Poor Man’s Lobster is best served with a butter warmer at the table, keeping the melted butter perfectly warm and ready for dipping, alongside fresh lemon slices or a wedge to squeeze over the tender cod.

This combination enhances the flavor and adds a touch of nostalgia, creating a supper club-style dining experience.

Recipe FAQs

What kind of fish can be used to make Poor Man's Lobster?

While cod is the most popular choice, you can use haddock, pollock, or halibut as substitutes. These white fish varieties have a similar texture and mild flavor that mimic lobster when cooked this way.

What is the difference between cod and halibut?

Cod’s mild flavor and flaky texture make it perfect for Poor Man’s Lobster, while halibut offers a firmer texture and richer, sweeter taste. Both work well, but cod is more affordable and widely available. Halibut lovers should try my Balsamic-Glazed Halibut recipe!

Why does the recipe use sugar in the water?

The sugar in the water adds a subtle sweetness to the fish, mimicking the naturally sweet flavor of lobster meat. It also helps neutralize any fishy taste.

How can I tell when Poor Man's Lobster is done?

The fish is done when it turns opaque white and flakes easily with a fork. For the most accurate results, check the internal temperature—it should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I use thawed cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thawed cod, but the recipe is designed to work best with frozen fillets. If using thawed fish, adjust the boiling time to avoid overcooking, as thawed fillets cook faster.

How can I prevent the fish from becoming rubbery?

Cook the fish gently by avoiding a hard boil during the poaching step. Keep the water at a gentle simmer and watch the cooking time closely—overcooking is the main cause of rubbery fish.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an air fryer. After poaching the fish, brush it with melted butter and seasonings, then air fry at 400°F for about 5–7 minutes, or until the fillets are golden and cooked through.

Can I bake Poor Man's Lobster in the oven?

Absolutely! After poaching, transfer the fish to a baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and season as instructed. Bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Storage Instructions

Allow the cooked cod to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to avoid drying it out.

Freezing Instructions

Wrap each cooked fillet tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Fork dipping a piece of buttered, broiled cod into a dish of ramekin of melted butter.

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