Catfish Nuggets
Crispy catfish nuggets coated with cheese crackers, Parmesan, and sesame seeds, perfect for appetizers or finger foods that are flavorful and satisfying for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the catfish fillets into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
- Combine the finely crushed cheese crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, sesame seed, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Dip the fish cubes in melted butter, then roll them in the cracker crumb mixture.
- Place the coated fish cubes 1/2-inch apart on aluminum foil-lined baking sheets.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 20 minutes or until the fish is golden brown.
- Serve immediately with your favorite fish dip or Sour Cream Bleu Cheese Dip.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the catfish in lemon juice and your favorite spices for about 30 minutes before coating. If you don't have cheese crackers, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, perhaps adding a dash of cayenne for heat or using Italian seasoning for an herbaceous touch.
Serving Suggestions
These catfish nuggets are best served hot and fresh out of the oven. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce or cocktail sauce. They make a great appetizer or main dish alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Cheesy Crab Dip for a delightful seafood spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover catfish nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Catfish Nuggets contains roughly 453 calories, with 13g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1825mg per serving (79% 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 fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cutting into cubes. This will help the coating stick better and ensure even cooking.
How can I make these nuggets healthier?
To make the nuggets healthier, you can bake them with a light spray of olive oil instead of butter, and use whole grain crackers instead of cheese crackers. You can also serve them with a side of fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.
What are some good side dishes to serve with catfish nuggets?
Catfish nuggets pair well with a variety of sides, such as crispy French fries, coleslaw, or a light green salad. You can also serve them with a side of cornbread for a classic Southern meal that complements the flavors beautifully.
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).