Baked Catfish Fillets
Golden baked catfish fillets with a crispy cornmeal coating, seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon pepper—perfect for a quick, flavorful seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cornmeal, salt, pepper, and lemon pepper in a bowl.
- Coat each catfish fillet with the seasoned cornmeal mixture.
- Place the coated fillets on a lightly oiled cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F until golden brown, turning once halfway through cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a bit of cayenne pepper or paprika to the cornmeal mixture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the cornmeal with almond flour. For a crunchier texture, you can also add some crushed cornflakes to the coating. Make sure to check the catfish for doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked catfish fillets with a side of coleslaw or steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness. They pair beautifully with Party Sandwiches(Tuna Filling) for a delightful seafood spread. Consider a light tartar sauce for dipping to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked catfish fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Catfish Fillets contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell when the catfish is fully cooked?
The catfish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Baking at 375°F usually takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Using a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Can I use frozen catfish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed before coating them with the cornmeal mixture. If they are still icy, the coating may not adhere well during baking.
What can I substitute for cornmeal if I don’t have any?
If you don't have cornmeal, you can use breadcrumbs or ground oats as a substitute. Alternatively, crushed crackers or panko can provide a similar crunchy coating. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to keep the flavor profile intact.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).