air fried catfish recipe

air fried catfish recipe

The Best air fried catfish recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite air fried catfish recipe. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a Southern classic that’s been around for centuries, but with a healthier twist.

The original recipe involves deep-frying the catfish, which is delicious but not exactly the healthiest option. However, by using an air fryer, we can achieve that same crispy texture without all the extra calories. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for ways to cook fish for my family.

My kids were picky eaters back then, but they loved this dish from the very first bite. It’s easy to make, and the flavors are so well-balanced that everyone can enjoy it. The combination of the crunchy exterior and flaky interior is just perfect.

But what I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack at parties. It’s perfect for game day gatherings or potlucks because it’s easy to transport and reheat.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – by using an air fryer, we’re reducing the amount of oil needed to cook the fish. The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply season the catfish with your favorite spices, place it in the air fryer basket, and let it cook until it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Serve it with your favorite sides, such as hushpuppies or coleslaw, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Air Fried Catfish

Air Fried Catfish

4.8 from 656 votes

Crispy and flavorful catfish fillets cooked in an air fryer with a seasoned cornmeal coating. This quick and easy recipe delivers a healthier version of fried catfish without sacrificing crunch.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time12 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time22 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Catfish

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk
Cooking spray

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat catfish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2In a shallow dish, whisk eggs and milk together until well combined.
3In a separate large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if using.
4Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
5Dip each catfish fillet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
6Then coat the fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres on all sides.
7Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
8Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
9Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
10Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with cooking spray.
11Air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through the cooking time.
12The catfish is done when the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
13Remove the catfish from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
14Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

🔧Equipment

Air fryer
Large bowl
Shallow dish
Whisk
Tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, use a finer cornmeal. If fillets are thicker, increase cook time by 2 minutes. Serve with tartar sauce or hot sauce for added flavor.

Watch Video Of How Air Fried Catfish Works

This air fried catfish recipe is one I come back to again and again because it is reliable and always turns out well. The fish stays moist and flaky inside while the outside gets that perfect crunch we all love.

It is a simple dish that fits any meal, from a quick weeknight dinner to a family gathering. Leftover catfish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, place the fillets back in the air fryer at 350 degrees for about 4 minutes to restore the crispiness. You can also serve the leftovers cold in a salad or flake them over rice for an easy lunch.

For a fun twist, try serving the catfish on a bun with tartar sauce and lettuce for a fish sandwich that everyone will enjoy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fried Catfish

Q1: What is air frying?

Air frying is a cooking method that uses little to no oil to produce a crispy exterior and a tender interior on food.

Q2: Is air frying healthy?

Yes, air frying is a healthier alternative to deep-frying because it uses little to no oil.

Q3: Can I use any type of fish for this recipe?

No, catfish works best for this recipe because of its firm texture and mild flavor.

Q4: How do I season the catfish?

You can season the catfish with any combination of herbs and spices you like.

Q5: Can I reheat leftover air fried catfish?

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