Back to list

Best Easy Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Recipe

Name: Best Easy Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Recipe
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 150 g
Ingredients: catfish fillets 24 oz; cornmeal 1 cup; all-purpose flour 0.5 cup; large eggs 2 pieces; buttermilk 0.5 cup; vegetable oil 1.5 cup; kosher salt 1.5 tsp; black pepper 1 tsp; paprika 1 tsp; garlic powder 1 tsp; cayenne pepper 0.25 tsp

Crispy cornmeal-crusted catfish fried to golden perfection is a Southern family fish fry tradition packed with protein. Served with hush puppies and coleslaw, this fresh-water fish is a Friday night classic.

Cook 30 min Difficulty NORMAL 320 kcal

#high protein #southern #fried fish #dinner

Image coming soon

Ingredients

Main ingredients

catfish fillets 24 oz
cornmeal 1 cup
all-purpose flour 0.5 cup
large eggs 2 pieces
buttermilk 0.5 cup
vegetable oil 1.5 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

kosher salt 1.5 tsp
black pepper 1 tsp
paprika 1 tsp
garlic powder 1 tsp
cayenne pepper 0.25 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 20 g 25%

Protein 26 g 33%

Fat 13 g 37%

Serving size 150g

Cooking steps

1

Pat catfish fillets dry with paper towels for a crispier crust.
2

In a shallow dish, whisk eggs with buttermilk. In a separate dish, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.
3

Dip each fillet into the buttermilk-egg wash, turning to coat completely.
4

Dredge the fillets in the seasoned cornmeal mixture, pressing gently so the breading adheres well.
5

Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a large skillet (medium-high heat). To test, sprinkle a bit of cornmeal to see if it sizzles.
6

Working in batches, fry fillets 3–4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and internal temp reaches 145°F.
7

Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately for best texture.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?

Catfish fillets are the star, delivering tender, mild-flavored fish. The cornmeal breading is essential, creating the signature crispy Southern crust.

Q. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy or falling off?

For the crispiest result, thoroughly pat fillets dry before dipping, press the breading onto the fish, and fry in hot oil (350°F). Draining on a rack keeps moisture away.

Q. What seasoning combination sets this dish apart?

The blend of kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne gives depth, mild spice, and that classic Southern flavor without overpowering the fish.

Q. How many calories and protein does one serving have?

Each 150g serving provides about 320 kcal and a high 26g of protein, making this dish both filling and protein-rich compared to standard fried fish.

Q. What's the ideal frying time and temp for cornmeal-crusted catfish?

Fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes per side. This heat ensures a golden, crunchy coating without overcooking the fish, which should reach 145°F inside.

Best Easy Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Recipe

AI 영양사 앤디