When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as pan-fried catfish. The combination of crispy breading and tender fish is a match made in heaven, and when done right, can elevate any meal to new heights. In this article, we’re diving into the world of crispy catfish recipes, featuring 18 mouth-watering pan-fried dishes that are sure to become family favorites. From classic Southern styles to spicy twists and international inspirations, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of flavors and techniques.
In the following pages, we’ll be sharing recipes that showcase the versatility of catfish, from Cajun-seasoned masterpieces to Korean-style crispy treats. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for a new dinner idea, these pan-fried catfish recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Pan Fried Catfish with Cajun Seasoning
Get ready for a flavorful fish dish that’s perfect for any meal! This pan-fried catfish recipe is seasoned with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine, making it a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each catfish fillet in the seasoning mixture, coating evenly on both sides.
4. Heat about 1/8 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add 2-3 coated catfish fillets to the skillet (do not overcrowd).
6. Pan-fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky.
7. Repeat with remaining fish fillets.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Southern Style Pan Fried Catfish
A classic Southern dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make, this pan-fried catfish recipe is a staple of comfort food. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 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
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, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated fillets on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Carefully place coated catfish fillets into the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Buttermilk Fried Catfish with Cornmeal Coating
A classic Southern favorite gets a crispy twist with this easy-to-make recipe. Crisp catfish fillets smothered in a tangy buttermilk mixture and coated in crunchy cornmeal are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 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, whisk together buttermilk, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk mixture, coating completely.
3. Dredge the buttermilk-coated catfish in cornmeal, 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 crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.
Spicy Pan Fried Catfish with Hot Sauce Glaze
A Southern twist on a classic catfish recipe, this spicy pan fried dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Add melted butter to the preheated skillet and swirl to coat bottom.
5. Place catfish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. While fish is cooking, mix hot sauce with a tablespoon of water to create glaze.
7. Brush glaze over catfish during last minute of cooking.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Pan Fried Catfish
A flavorful twist on traditional catfish, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of pepper for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tsp dried lemon peel
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the catfish fillets with salt and black pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around.
4. Place the catfish fillets in the pan, skin side down (if they have skin).
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove the catfish from the pan and sprinkle with lemon peel and juice.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (4-5 minutes per side)
Garlic Butter Pan Fried Catfish
Savor the rich flavors of catfish with a crispy garlic butter crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season catfish fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Place the catfish in the preheated pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. After flipping the catfish, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Cook for an additional minute to allow the garlic butter to melt and crisp up.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Catfish Sandwich with Slaw
A Southern classic gets a crispy twist! Pan-fried catfish patties, sandwiched between soft buns and topped with creamy coleslaw, make for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 4 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Dip floured catfish in melted butter, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat; cook breaded catfish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked catfish on hamburger buns, topping with coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Catfish Nuggets Pan Fried with Dill Dip
A Southern favorite gets a crispy makeover! Pan-fry catfish nuggets to perfection and serve with a refreshing dill dip for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-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
– Dill Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dredge catfish pieces in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Pan-fry nuggets in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Dill Dip.
Dill Dip:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Pan Fried Catfish with Remoulade Sauce
Crispy Pan Fried Catfish with Remoulade Sauce Recipe
Savor the crispy texture and rich flavor of pan-fried catfish paired with a tangy remoulade sauce. This Southern-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
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 (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. Dredge catfish fillets in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
4. Heat 1/2-inch 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 crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan Fried Catfish with Fresh Herb Crust
Pan Fried Catfish with Fresh Herb Crust Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional catfish, this pan-fried dish is elevated by a crispy fresh herb crust that adds a burst of citrusy freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the pan: Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the crust: In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, and lemon zest.
3. Coat the catfish: Dip each catfish fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Pan-fry the catfish: Add olive oil to the preheated pan and cook the catfish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Pan Fried Catfish
Savor the bold flavors of the South with this blackened pan fried catfish recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season catfish fillets with salt and pepper; then coat evenly with the blackening spice mixture.
4. Add 1 tbsp butter to the preheated pan; let it melt.
5. Place catfish fillets in the pan, leaving space between each piece.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Catfish Tacos with Lime Crema
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these pan-fried catfish bites are wrapped in a crispy taco shell and topped with a zesty lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Taco shells
– Lime crema (recipe below)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip catfish pieces into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Pan-fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fried catfish into shells, topping with lime crema (recipe below), and garnishing with cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornmeal Crusted Pan Fried Catfish
Elevate your catfish game with this crispy and flavorful pan-frying method, featuring a crunchy cornmeal crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Add 1-2 tbsp of vegetable oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat the bottom.
5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as hushpuppies or coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Catfish with Spicy Mayo
Pan Fried Catfish with Spicy Mayo Recipe
Savor the crispy exterior and tender interior of pan-fried catfish, elevated by a creamy spicy mayo that adds a tangy kick. This Southern-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Mayo:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
+ 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and 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 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Pan-fry catfish for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix Spicy Mayo ingredients in a small bowl.
7. Serve catfish hot with Spicy Mayo spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Pan Fried Catfish with Hushpuppies
A Southern favorite gets a crispy twist! Pan-fried catfish and hushpuppies make for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the catfish:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the hushpuppies:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 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 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 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix together hushpuppy ingredients. Drop by spoonfuls into hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve catfish with hushpuppies and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan Fried Catfish with Mango Salsa
A flavorful twist on traditional catfish, this recipe combines the tender fish with a sweet and tangy mango salsa for a delightful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 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
– Mango Salsa:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 1 tablespoon lime juice
+ Salt 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, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/8 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Pan-fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. While the fish is cooking, mix together mango salsa ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve the pan-fried catfish with a spoonful of mango salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Pan Fried Catfish
A Southern favorite gets a smoky twist with this simple and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge catfish fillets in the spice mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated catfish and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve immediately with lemon slices on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Catfish with Parmesan Herb Crust
A classic Southern dish gets a flavorful twist with this easy-to-make pan-fried catfish recipe, topped with a crispy parmesan herb crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add coated catfish fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into the crispiest, most mouthwatering catfish recipes ever! This collection of 18 pan-fried catfish recipes takes you on a culinary journey from classic Southern comfort food to bold and spicy twists. From Cajun seasoning to hot sauce glaze, buttermilk coating to cornmeal crunch, there’s something for every taste bud. With easy-to-follow instructions and mouthwatering photos, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this article has got you covered with the perfect pan-fried catfish dish.
