oven fried catfish recipe

The Best oven fried catfish recipe

I’ve been making oven fried catfish for years, and it’s a staple in our household. This recipe is a game-changer because it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

The best part is that it’s a healthier alternative to deep-frying, which is perfect for families who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor. My kids love it when I serve this dish with a side of coleslaw or hushpuppies, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings.

The secret to this recipe lies in the technique of breading the catfish with a mixture of flour, spices, and panko breadcrumbs before baking it in the oven. This gives the fish a crispy exterior and a tender interior that’s simply irresistible.

I’ve tried various seasonings and marinades over the years, but this recipe remains my go-to because of its simplicity and consistency. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, oven fried catfish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

The dish has its roots in Southern cuisine, where catfish was often breaded and deep-fried for a crispy coating. However, by using the oven instead of the deep fryer, we can enjoy this delicious dish without the added calories.

My family loves when I serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad, making it a well-rounded meal that everyone can enjoy. The health benefits of this recipe are numerous, from the lean protein content of the catfish to the fiber-rich breading mixture.

Oven Fried Catfish

4.5 from 1754 votes

This oven fried catfish delivers a crispy golden crust without the mess of deep frying. The cornmeal and panko coating bakes to a crunchy finish while the fish stays moist and flaky inside.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Catfish

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Serving

Lemon wedges
Tartar sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and brush it lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels.
4Pour the buttermilk into a shallow bowl and dip each fillet into it, turning to coat both sides.
5In a separate shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
6Mix well with a fork.
7Dredge each buttermilk-coated fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres evenly.
8Place the coated fillets on the prepared wire rack.
9Lightly spray or drizzle the tops of the fillets with vegetable oil.
10Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork at the thickest part.
11Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes.
12Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Wire rack
Mixing bowls (2)
Whisk
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, use a combination of fine and medium-grind cornmeal. If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

Watch Video Of How Oven Fried Catfish Works

This oven fried catfish recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for families who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor or breaking the bank.

You can store leftover cooked catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating leftovers, simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Fried Catfish

Q: What type of catfish should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use any type of catfish you like best. Some popular options include channel catfish, blue catfish, or even farm-raised catfish. Just make sure to pat the fish dry with paper towels before breading it for even cooking.

Q: Can I use other types of fish instead of catfish?

While you can substitute other types of fish for catfish in this recipe, keep in mind that they may have different cooking times and textures. For example, tilapia or cod might work well with this recipe, but they may require slightly less cooking time due to their smaller size.

Q: How do I prevent the breading from falling off during cooking?

To prevent the breading from falling off during cooking, make sure to pat the fish dry with paper towels before breading it. This helps create a stronger bond between the breading and the fish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the breading mixture and refrigerating it until you’re ready to cook the fish. However, be sure to thaw frozen fish completely before proceeding with the recipe.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I substitute another liquid?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk or yogurt if you don’t have buttermilk on hand. However, keep in mind that these alternatives may affect the flavor and texture of your final product slightly.

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