When it comes to Southern comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a plate of crispy fried catfish. This beloved dish has been a staple in many Southern households for generations, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Whether you’re a native Southerner or just looking to try something new, the following 18 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic Southern-style preparations to more adventurous twists, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of crispy fried catfish. With options ranging from spicy Cajun-spiced fish to beer-battered goodness, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your apron, get ready to get cooking, and let’s dive into the world of crispy fried catfish!
Classic Southern Fried Catfish
A Southern staple, this crispy fried catfish recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously Southern meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet first in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated catfish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.
Cajun Spiced Fried Catfish
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this crispy Cajun-spiced fried catfish recipe. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, it’s a Southern classic that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated catfish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Buttermilk Marinated Fried Catfish
Experience the crispy, tangy goodness of catfish with this simple and flavorful recipe. Tenderized in a rich buttermilk marinade, these golden-brown fried catfish fillets are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the catfish fillets to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove catfish from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Fry catfish for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Cornmeal Crusted Fried Catfish
Get ready for a crispy, flavorful twist on classic catfish with this simple recipe. Crunchy cornmeal crust adds a satisfying texture to the tender fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry coated catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Fried Catfish with Hot Sauce Glaze
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the crispy texture of fried catfish with the bold flavors of hot sauce and spices, making it a perfect dish for those who like a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hot sauce glaze (see below)
Hot Sauce Glaze:
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, 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, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. While catfish is cooking, whisk together hot sauce glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
7. Once catfish is done, place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle with hot sauce glaze and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beer-Battered Fried Catfish
Experience the perfect blend of Southern comfort and beer-soaked crispiness with this mouthwatering recipe for Beer-Battered Fried Catfish. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour beer into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the beer, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garlic Herb Fried Catfish
A flavorful and crispy catfish recipe that combines the pungency of garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the catfish, then sprinkle with minced garlic, parsley, and dill.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich
Experience the authentic flavors of the Deep South with this crispy fried catfish po’ boy sandwich, a classic Louisiana favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 po’ boy bread rolls
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (optional)
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. Dredge catfish fillets in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried catfish on po’ boy bread rolls, adding lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Fried Catfish
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your catfish with this simple and delicious recipe. Crispy fried catfish fillets are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the warmth of black pepper, making for a perfect weeknight dinner.
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 lemon, zested
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
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, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Sprinkle lemon zest evenly over the top of the fried catfish.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Catfish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines crispy fried catfish with a refreshing cilantro lime slaw for a flavorful and vibrant meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Cilantro Lime Slaw (see below)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Cilantro Lime Slaw:
– 1 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup chopped red cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Dredge catfish fillets in flour mixture (flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper).
2. Fry catfish in hot oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with fried catfish, Cilantro Lime Slaw, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish Nuggets with Dipping Sauce
Get ready for a southern-style treat that’s sure to please! This recipe combines the tender taste of catfish with the crunch of fried breading, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 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
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce:
+ 1 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons ketchup
+ 1 tablespoon relish
+ 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
+ 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 catfish pieces into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish nuggets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve with Dipping Sauce (mix all sauce ingredients together).
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Fried Catfish with Hush Puppies
A Southern classic gets a crispy makeover with this simple recipe. Crisp catfish fillets served alongside golden hush puppies, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the catfish:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the hush puppies:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp cornmeal
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion 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.
4. Heat 1/2-inch vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix together flour, cornmeal, baking soda, and cayenne pepper. Gradually add buttermilk to form a thick batter.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry hush puppies for 2-3 minutes or until golden.
7. Serve catfish with hush puppies and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish with Remoulade Sauce
A Southern classic, this recipe combines the tender flaky catfish with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce for a delightful dinner.
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
– Remoulade sauce ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp paprika, 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 in 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 catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with remoulade sauce (mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Fried Catfish with Collard Greens
A classic Southern combination that’s sure to please! Crispy fried catfish paired with tender, slightly bitter collard greens makes for a satisfying and flavorful 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
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry catfish for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
6. Add chopped collard greens to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve fried catfish with collard greens and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish with Grits
Savor the rich flavors of the South with this classic combination of crispy fried catfish and creamy grits. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry catfish in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Cook grits according to package instructions with butter and salt. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish with Sweet Potato Fries
Get ready for a Southern comfort food classic! This recipe combines the tender flaky goodness of catfish with the crispy sweetness of sweet potato fries, all in one mouthwatering dish.
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
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt 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 in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and flaky.
5. Meanwhile, toss sweet potato fries with flour and paprika. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Fry sweet potatoes for 3-4 minutes on each side or until crispy.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Fried Catfish with Creole Seasoning
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of spicy and savory with this recipe for Fried Catfish with Creole Seasoning. This classic Southern dish is elevated by the bold flavors of Creole seasoning, making it a staple for any seafood lover.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Creole seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Creole seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge catfish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Catfish with Tartar Sauce
This classic Southern dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of crispy fried catfish and tangy tartar sauce is unbeatable. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this comfort food favorite at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (1 pound)
– 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
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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.
5. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with tartar sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the world of crispy fried catfish with these 18 Southern-style recipes! From classic breaded and fried to creative twists like beer-battered and spicy, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making traditional dishes like Fried Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich or Fried Catfish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw. Or go bold with unique combinations like Fried Catfish with Sweet Potato Fries or Fried Catfish with Collard Greens. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.