Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the heart of the South! Crispy fried catfish is a staple of Southern cuisine, and today we’re sharing 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase this beloved dish in all its glory. From classic comfort food to innovative twists, these crispy fried catfish recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a fancy dinner party option, our collection has something for everyone. With ingredients like buttermilk, hot sauce, and Cajun spices, you’ll be transported to the bayous of Louisiana and the backwoods of Alabama with every delicious bite.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the South, highlighting the most mouth-watering, crispy fried catfish recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative twists and fusion flavors, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking!
Buttermilk Fried Catfish with Spicy Remoulade
A Southern twist on traditional fried catfish, this recipe adds a tangy and spicy kick to the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk mixture, coating completely, then roll in flour to coat.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry coated catfish for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve with fried catfish.
Cajun Blackened Catfish with Garlic Butter
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun country with this simple and flavorful recipe for blackened catfish.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup garlic butter (see below)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic Butter:
– 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the spice mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat garlic butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add blackened catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Southern Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Catfish
Get ready for a taste of the South with this crispy and delicious catfish recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the cornmeal mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the catfish from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy your crispy Southern-style fried catfish!
Beer-Battered Catfish with Tartar Sauce
Get ready for a crispy and indulgent seafood experience with this Beer-Battered Catfish recipe, served with a tangy and creamy Tartar Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tartar Sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup chopped pickles
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, beer, and water to form the batter.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the battered catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve with Tartar Sauce (mix all ingredients together in a bowl): mix mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, and paprika until smooth.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Fried Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this mouthwatering Spicy Fried Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich recipe, featuring crispy catfish, creamy remoulade sauce, and crunchy pickles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Thinly sliced dill pickles
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then coat in the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated catfish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried catfish on hamburger buns, topping with remoulade sauce and pickles.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the fusion of Southern comfort and tropical flair with these crispy Fried Catfish Tacos served with a sweet and tangy Mango Salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge catfish pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry catfish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing fried catfish onto tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.
6. Serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Fried Catfish with Hush Puppies
Experience the Southern charm of classic fried catfish paired with crispy hush puppies, a staple of traditional Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
For the Catfish:
– 4 catfish fillets (6-8 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Hush Puppies:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat 1/2-inch vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish for 4-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix together hush puppy ingredients in a bowl.
7. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
8. Cook hush puppies for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Serve catfish and hush puppies immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish Nuggets with Chipotle Aioli
Experience the bold flavors of Southern cuisine with this crispy fried catfish recipe, paired with a creamy and spicy chipotle aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish nuggets (or 2 pounds catfish fillets cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chipotle Aioli (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the catfish nuggets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve with Chipotle Aioli.
Chipotle Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve with fried catfish.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your catfish pieces and frying time.
Lemon-Pepper Fried Catfish with Coleslaw
A refreshing twist on traditional fried catfish, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon and pepper with a crunchy coating for a deliciously tangy treat. Serve it up with a side of creamy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Coleslaw ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge catfish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured catfish in lemon zest, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry catfish in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve with coleslaw made from 2 cups shredded cabbage, 1 cup mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Catfish and Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of the South with this hearty recipe that combines crispy fried catfish, creamy grits, and a spicy Cajun cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets
– 1 cup grits
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Cajun cream sauce (recipe below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Cajun Cream Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions.
2. Season catfish fillets with paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Fry catfish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Serve fried catfish over grits and top with Cajun cream sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panko-Crusted Fried Catfish with Sweet Chili Glaze
Savor the crispy, sweet, and tangy flavors of this Southern-inspired catfish recipe. A light and airy Panko crust gives way to tender fish, while a sweet chili glaze adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup sweet chili sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry catfish in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Place fried catfish on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat sweet chili sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
7. Brush glaze over catfish during the last 2 minutes of baking.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Catfish Sandwich with Pickled Slaw
Experience the Southern charm of a crispy fried catfish sandwich paired with a tangy and crunchy pickled slaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8 slices of white bread
– Pickled Slaw (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Pickled Slaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Dredge catfish fillets in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
4. Fry coated catfish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried catfish on white bread, followed by pickled slaw and optional toppings.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish Bites with Creole Mustard Dip
A Southern favorite gets a crispy twist in this easy recipe for Fried Catfish Bites served with a tangy Creole Mustard Dip. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Creole Mustard Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip catfish pieces in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture. Place coated catfish on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish bites in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot with Creole Mustard Dip (see below).
Creole Mustard Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of catfish bites you fry at one time.
Fried Catfish with Cajun Dirty Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic Southern recipe that combines crispy fried catfish with spicy Cajun dirty rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cajun dirty rice ingredients (see below)
Cajun Dirty Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 catfish fillet in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, cook Cajun dirty rice according to package instructions. Add diced onion and celery during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve fried catfish with hot Cajun dirty rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Fried Catfish Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
A Southern classic gets a refreshing twist with this crispy fried catfish salad, topped with a tangy buttermilk dressing. Crunchy and creamy, this dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets
– 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
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Dredge catfish in flour mixture; fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, and parsley.
3. Combine fried catfish, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl.
4. Pour dressing over the top and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish with Fried Green Tomatoes
This classic Southern duo is a match made in heaven – crispy fried catfish paired with crunchy, tangy green tomatoes. It’s an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 large green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Fry the catfish in hot oil (350°F) for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate dish, mix together flour and paprika. Dredge green tomato slices in the mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the green tomatoes in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve catfish with fried green tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Catfish and Okra Combo
A Southern classic gets a flavorful twist with this easy-to-make combo of crispy fried catfish and tender okra.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 lb okra, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. In the same skillet, add butter and okra slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until okra is tender and lightly browned.
6. Serve fried catfish with okra combo hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish with Smoky Collard Greens
A Southern favorite gets a delicious twist with crispy fried catfish paired with smoky collard greens that are slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 catfish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture. Place on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. In another large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add collard greens, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until greens are tender.
6. Serve fried catfish with smoky collard greens.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of fried catfish! This collection of 18 Southern-style recipes takes you on a culinary journey from classic comfort food to bold and spicy twists. From Buttermilk Fried Catfish with Spicy Remoulade to Fried Catfish Tacos with Mango Salsa, each dish is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility of this beloved fish. Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy sandwich or a flavorful salad, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you hooked.
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