Baked Catfish
Baked catfish offers a delicate, flaky texture with bright lemon and herb flavors, making it perfect for a healthy, easy dinner. The buttery, savory notes complement the fish's tenderness, appealing to seafood lovers and those seeking a simple yet flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the fish thoroughly.
- In a baking dish, add lemon juice, bay leaf, parsley, fish, butter, salt, pepper, and water.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Serve with rice and buttered spinach.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like dill to the seasoning mix. If you can't find catfish, any mild white fish such as tilapia or cod can be a good substitute. Make sure to check the fish for any bones before serving. A splash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked catfish alongside fluffy rice and buttered spinach for a well-rounded meal. A fresh garden salad or coleslaw can also complement the dish nicely. For a more festive occasion, consider pairing it with the Butterflied Bayou Shrimp as an appetizer. Lemon wedges on the side will enhance the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Catfish contains roughly 739 calories, with 18g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (215% of the Daily Value), and calcium (147% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1803mg per serving (78% 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
Can I use frozen catfish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing the dish. This will help ensure even cooking and better texture.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, olive oil or a plant-based butter can be used instead of regular butter. This will maintain moisture and flavor without compromising the dish.
How do I know when the fish is done cooking?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.
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).