Here’s a classic Southern-style fried catfish recipe—crispy, golden, and full of flavor.
🐟 Southern Fried Catfish
Ingredients (4 servings)
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Oil for frying (peanut or vegetable oil)
Instructions
1. Soak the catfish
- Rinse fillets and pat dry.
- Soak in buttermilk for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
This removes any fishy taste and helps the coating stick.
2. Prepare the coating
In a shallow dish combine:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne (if using)
Mix well.
3. Coat the fish
- Remove fillets from the buttermilk (don’t rinse).
- Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to coat.
- Let coated fillets rest 5 minutes to set the crust.
4. Fry
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a skillet or deep fryer.
- Carefully place catfish in the oil.
- Fry 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt.
Serve with
- Hot sauce
- Tartar sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Coleslaw
- Hushpuppies or fries
⭐ Tips
- For extra crispy fish: use all cornmeal (no flour).
- For a spicier version: add Cajun seasoning to the coating.
- Air fryer option: spray with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Want a Cajun blackened catfish recipe too?
