pan-fry

American  

[pan-frahy, -frahy] / ˈpænˈfraɪ, -ˌfraɪ /

verb (used with object)

pan-fried, pan-frying

1. to fry in a small amount of fat, as in a skillet or shallow pan; sauté.

---

Etymology

Origin of pan-fry

First recorded in 1940–45; pan ¹ + fry ¹

Example Sentences

Quail is wonderfully versatile — pan-fry it, grill it, roast it, even braise it if you’re feeling cozy.

From Salon • Dec. 4, 2025

And finally, we pan-fry the patties until browned and crisp.

From Washington Times • May 25, 2023

“If you grew up in a Korean household,” he wrote, “then the dish wasn’t just occasional barbecue; it was dinner on the regular, a quick pan-fry on the stovetop.”

From Seattle Times • May 1, 2023

Form into patties, salt and pepper the outsides, and pan-fry until browned and cooked through.

From Washington Post • Feb. 11, 2022

Stuff a tablespoon or so of this filling into dumpling wrappers, and steam or pan-fry for an inventive, satisfying spin on Thanksgiving flavors that's just begging for a dip in cranberry sauce.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2021