Catfish fillets crisp up beautifully in a bold Cajun spice blend of smoky paprika, garlic, and a touch of cayenne. Dipped in tangy buttermilk or dairy free yogurt with lemon and apple cider vinegar, then coated in seasoned cornmeal, each piece fries to golden perfection. Crunchy on the outside and tender inside, this quick, flavor packed dish delivers comfort and a little heat in under thirty minutes, perfect for easy family dinners or lively weeknight meals.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This catfish fillets
- Quick to prepare for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously crispy coating that’s hard to resist.
- Packed with bold Cajun flavors that excite your taste buds.
- Perfectly pairs with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
- Healthy seafood option that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
catfish fillets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 2: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
- Step 3: In another shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 4: Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture.
- Step 5: Heat about ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Step 6: Carefully place the fillets in the skillet and fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 7: Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Step 8: Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired for an extra zing!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Ingredients
Get ready to make delicious catfish fillets with these simple ingredients!
- 4 catfish fillets – fresh or thawed
- 1 cup cornmeal – for a crispy coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – to enhance texture
- 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for savory depth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – to complement the spices
- 1 teaspoon salt – to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – adds a bit of heat
- 2 eggs – for binding
- 2 tablespoons milk – helps with dredging
- vegetable oil for frying – for crispy frying
- lemon wedges – optional, for serving
How to Make Catfish Fillets
This delightful catfish fillets recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and a cooking time of 8 minutes, you can have a flavorful seafood dish ready in no time. Just a little extra time for resting after frying, and you’re all set!
Step 1: Rinse
Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Whisk
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Coat Fillets
Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture.
Step 5: Heat Oil
Heat about ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 6: Fry Fillets
Carefully place the fillets in the skillet and fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Drain
Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Serve
Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired for an extra zing!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Southern |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 8 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 23 minutes |
| Dietary | Seafood |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot with lemon wedges |
Pro Tips for Making catfish fillets
- Pat the fillets dry for a crispier coating.
- Use a mix of cornmeal and flour for added texture.
- Let the seasoned fillets rest for 15 minutes before frying.
- Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh finish.
How to Serve
- Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
- Pair with fluffy white rice or seasoned quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Top with a zesty lemon-dill sauce for an extra flavor kick.
- Enjoy with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful twist.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
- Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to store and enjoy your catfish fillets later:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow catfish fillets to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place fillets on a baking sheet.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- For crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Are nut bars healthy?
Nut bars can be a healthy snack option, especially when made with wholesome ingredients like nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners. They are rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which can help keep you full and energized. However, it’s important to check the ingredients and portion sizes, as some store-bought versions may contain added sugars and unhealthy fats.
2. What are nutty bars called now?
Nutty bars are often referred to as nut bars or energy bars. These terms encompass a variety of snacks that are made primarily from nuts and other nutritious ingredients. The name may vary by brand, but the concept remains the same: a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of nuts on the go.
3. What is a nutbar slang?
In slang, a ‘nutbar’ can refer to someone who is considered eccentric or a bit crazy. It’s a lighthearted term that plays on the idea of being a little ‘nuts’ or out of the ordinary. However, in the context of food, it simply refers to the delicious snack made from nuts and other ingredients.
4. Who owns Nutbar?
Nutbar is a brand that specializes in nut-based snacks, and it is owned by a company that focuses on creating healthy and convenient food options. The specific ownership can vary by region and product line, so it’s best to check the packaging or the company’s website for the most accurate information regarding ownership and product details.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this easy and delicious Cajun catfish fillets recipe, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy a delightful meal together! The crispy texture and bold flavors will surely bring smiles to the table. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding, so dive in and savor every bite of this simple seafood dish!