Making the most of a delicious ingredient like catfish requires a bit more than just frying it. If you’re from the south or have spent any amount of time there, then you probably already know that fried catfish is a southern summer staple, and it’s a great one. While the south may be famous for its crispy fried catfish, it doesn’t hold a monopoly on creative catfish recipes.
Many cultures around the world have their own unique ways of preparing catfish, from Asian-style steamed fish to Mediterranean grilled dishes. All jokes aside, I’ve been in the mood for some good, old-fashioned comfort food lately, so I decided to put my cravings to good use and come up with a list of catfish recipes we could all enjoy.
Crispy fried catfish is at the top of that list, but I’ve also given you options for pan-seared, blackened, baked, broiled, and several other mouth-watering methods.
17 Recipes With Catfish That’ll Make You a Believer
Crispy Southern Fried Catfish
Delivering on its promise of convenience, this recipe for crispy catfish is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. Unlike other fish dishes that require hours in the kitchen, this one can be ready in just 20 minutes. The best part? You likely already have all the necessary ingredients at home. Simply gather cornmeal, seasoned salt, pepper, garlic powder, milk, vegetable oil, and butter – and you’re good to go.
If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice and some chopped parsley as a garnish for an extra burst of flavor, but honestly, it’s perfect just the way it is.
30-Minute Baked Catfish
Varying cooking methods can greatly impact the final taste and texture of a dish. Baked catfish, while taking a little longer to prepare than its fried counterpart, offers a crispy exterior and tender interior when done correctly. A recipe with a focus on ketogenic or low-carb diets stands out for utilizing ingredients like avocado oil and almond meal, resulting in a product that remains remarkably low in net carbs per serving – two to be exact.
Catfish Amandine
Crafting a balanced meal can be a daunting task, especially when trying to adhere to specific dietary requirements such as low-calorie, low-carb, and low-added sugar intake. This 30-minute catfish dish offers a fantastic solution for those seeking healthier options without sacrificing flavor or texture. The combination of a buttery crust with a delicate crunch, paired with thinly sliced almonds and garlic, creates an extraordinary and memorable taste experience that will leave you wanting more.
Spicy, Sweet, Cast-Iron Catfish
Varying textures and flavors are what make this catfish dish truly exceptional. It’s a masterful balance of sweet and spicy notes, with the pan-seared and blackened elements perfectly harmonized. What makes it all come together is not just the simplicity of the ingredients – just fish filets and oil are required for cooking – but rather the complex rub that brings forth the depth of flavor.
The hand-mixed blend of cumin, paprika, dark brown sugar, oregano, salt, garlic, and cayenne adds an unmistakable richness to the dish, ensuring that every bite is a delight.
Blackened Catfish
Beneath the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine lies a dish that showcases the perfect balance of spices and freshness. Blackened catfish is a staple for those who crave the authentic taste of Louisiana, and it’s elevated to new heights by the addition of maque choux. This delectable accompaniment bears resemblance to succotash, blending sautéed onions, bell peppers, corn, cherry tomatoes, Tabasco sauce, and rich butter.
The vibrant colors and flavors of the vegetables are a testament to their freshness, while the subtle kick from the Tabasco adds depth without overpowering the dish. You don’t have to be in the heart of the French Quarter to experience the magic of Cajun cooking; with blackened catfish paired with maque choux, you can transport yourself to the bayous and boulevards of Louisiana.
Pineapple Honey Bourbon Grilled Catfish
Not only does this sweet and tropical grilled catfish fit perfectly into your summer menu plans, but it’s also incredibly convenient to make. With fewer than ten ingredients needed, you can have a whole pound of fish ready in under an hour, making it a quick, easy, and delicious way to feed the entire family.
Pan-Fried Catfish Filets
Elevating the humble pan-fried catfish filet is an art that requires attention to flavor and texture. The oniony, garlicky, and slightly spicy notes are perfectly balanced by the crispy, golden-brown exteriors giving way to flaky, tender meat inside. Enjoying these delights is elevated when served with sides of fresh lemon juice and a dollop of creamy tartar sauce, making for a truly satisfying treat.
Baked Catfish Nuggets
When it comes to getting your little ones to eat more fish, consider whipping up a batch of these five-ingredient catfish nuggets. It’s no secret that kids – and let’s be honest, adults too – have a special fondness for nuggets. With just a few simple ingredients like catfish, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt, you can have a whole tray of these flavorful nuggets on the table in under 30 minutes.
Not only will your kids appreciate this tasty treat, but everyone else at the table will be impressed by how quickly and easily they come together.
Fried Catfish Po’ Boy
Not only have we confirmed that southern-style fried catfish is a real treat, but now let’s elevate its flavor profile by placing it on Italian rolls and generously topping it with an array of ingredients such as pickles, tomatoes, hot sauce, remoulade sauce, and all the traditional po’ boy toppings you love.
Peachy Good Catfish Sandwich
Flavors abound in this catfish sandwich, boasting juicy tomato slices, tender and flaky catfish, sweet peach preserves, crispy bacon, crunchy lettuce, and a medley of other delectable ingredients. The harmonious combination of sweetness, saltiness, savory flavors, and herbal notes is truly impressive, with an added boost from the rich umami taste.
To take it to the next level, consider pairing this sandwich with some mouth-watering hush puppies, crispy fries, or a crunchy bag of chips for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Crunchy Catfish Tacos With Tequila Creamed Corn
Honestly, the star of this dish is not just the catfish, although it’s cooked to perfection. The real showstopper is the tequila creamed corn, which steals every bite of your attention. Its rich, velvety texture and bold flavors are a match made in heaven. Once you try it, I guarantee that you’ll be hooked – so much so that you might find yourself making it at least once or twice a week to go alongside catfish or any other protein of your choice.
And while it’s perfect as a topping for these tacos, I won’t judge you if you decide to enjoy it on its own with a spoon – the combination of creamy and fresh flavors is truly unbeatable.
Shrimp and Catfish Gumbo
Among the many variations of gumbo available, this roux-less shrimp and catfish gumbo stands out for its bold flavor profile and satisfying texture. Unlike traditional gumbo recipes that require a time-consuming roux-making process, this version takes approximately 90 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for those short on time or seeking a quicker alternative.
The ingredients list may appear lengthy at first glance, but rest assured that most gumbo recipes share similar characteristics. Spices and vegetables are abundant in this recipe, resulting in a dish that is both spicy and chunky enough to be filling without the need for additional side dishes. If serving as part of a larger meal, plain rice pairs perfectly with the flavors of the gumbo when poured over it.
Consider pairing it with cornbread – preferably a spicy variety – for an added depth of flavor.
Broiled Catfish With Artichokes and Tomatoes
Presenting one of the simplest dishes to make, this option may not win any beauty contests, but its taste more than makes up for its appearance. It requires a mere 15 minutes in the kitchen, making it a perfect solution for those short on time. The cooking method of broiling the catfish results in a supremely flaky and tender texture that’s almost fall-apart, courtesy of being easily pulled apart with your hands.
Meanwhile, the artichoke, tomato, and onion mixture on top brings an almost salsa-like flavor to the dish.
Oven-Fried Catfish Bites
Navigating the world of appetizers can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking for something crispy on the outside and tenderly juicy on the inside. These oven-fried catfish bites fit the bill perfectly, offering a delightful combination of texture and flavor that’s sure to impress your guests. Not only are they small and convenient, making them easy to eat without making a mess, but they also have an incredible seasoning mixture that adds depth and complexity to each bite.
Whether you’re serving them on their own or paired with various dipping sauces, these catfish bites offer endless flavor options for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Creamy Catfish Chowder
Flavors of the Deep South come alive in this rich and satisfying catfish chowder. With its thick, creamy texture and an unapologetic fishy taste, this recipe is not for the faint of heart. If you’re craving a comforting, hearty bowl that packs a punch, then this bold catfish chowder is sure to hit the spot. But if you prefer something light and mild, you might want to look elsewhere.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Catfish
Finding yourself in need of a mouthwatering catfish dish? Look no further than this recipe for grilled lemon-herb catfish, which is sure to hit the spot. The combination of buttery, well-seasoned goodness and tender noodles makes it a truly satisfying meal. While it may pack a bit of heat, the light, bright flavor of this dish is undeniably alluring and impossible to resist.
Catfish Courtbouillon
Looking for a culinary adventure that will ignite your taste buds? If you’re in the mood for something spicy, zesty, and full of Cajun flair, look no further. This exceptional dish is not only easy to make but also yields a restaurant-quality meal that’s out of this world with minimal effort required – approximately an hour from start to finish.
With its perfect blend of catfish, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, herbs, spices, and other mouth-watering ingredients, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a crowd-pleaser. Even those who aren’t typically fond of fish will find themselves falling in love with the explosion of flavors on their tongue. In short, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
17 Best Ways to Cook Catfish
Versatile and delicious, catfish is a culinary delight that can be prepared in various ways. From classic Southern-style fried catfish to healthier options like baked or grilled, these recipes showcase the fish’s incredible versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy and golden brown or tender and flaky, there’s a catfish dish out there to suit every taste.
Instructions
Locating the perfect recipe is the first step to creating a delicious and quick meal. This can be anything from a classic southern-style catfish dish to a modern fusion of flavors. Once you have chosen your favorite recipe, it’s time to gather all the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have everything needed, including any spices or seasonings required for the preparation.
