Crispy, golden, and bursting with bold Southern flavors, this Catfish with Cornmeal Breading recipe is the ultimate comfort food experience. Featuring tender catfish fillets coated in a perfectly seasoned blend of cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne for a touch of heat, this dish delivers the ideal balance of crunch and savory goodness. The creamy buttermilk-and-egg mixture ensures the breading adheres flawlessly, while pan-frying in hot vegetable oil creates a crisp, golden crust thatβs irresistibly addictive. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and classic Southern sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or fries for a truly satisfying meal. Whether youβre a seafood lover or new to cooking catfish, this recipeβs simplicity and deliciousness are sure to impress.
Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until fully combined.
Dip each fillet into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it is well-coated, and then press it into the cornmeal mixture to coat evenly. Set the breaded fillets on a plate.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Carefully place the breaded catfish fillets into the hot oil. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Transfer the fried fillets onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the catfish hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and any preferred sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or fries.
Calories |
3347 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 238.4 g | 306% | |
| Saturated Fat | 38.1 g | 190% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 134.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 479 mg | 160% | |
| Sodium | 2779 mg | 121% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 217.7 g | 79% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.5 g | 66% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.7 g | ||
| Protein | 105.7 g | 211% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.6 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 244 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 11.3 mg | 63% | |
| Potassium | 1922 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.