Corn Crisp Catfish
Crispy cornflake-coated catfish steaks deliver a crunchy texture with savory flavors, perfect for a quick, delicious seafood meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour evaporated milk into a bowl.
- Combine cornflake crumbs, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
- Dip catfish steaks in milk, then roll in the crumb mixture.
- Arrange coated steaks in a shallow pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs for cornflake crumbs. When coating the catfish, let it sit in the crumb mixture for a minute to enhance adherence. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crumb mixture. Pairing the catfish with a tangy remoulade sauce can elevate the flavors further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn crisp catfish with a side of coleslaw or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs well with classic American recipes like baked potatoes or seasoned green beans. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce or a zesty aioli.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover corn crisp catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the catfish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make it soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Crisp Catfish contains roughly 21 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1756mg per serving (76% 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 steaks for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish steaks. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before proceeding with the recipe. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption from the milk and crumb coating.
What can I do if I don't have cornflake crumbs?
If you don't have cornflake crumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will give a similar crunch, while crushed saltines can add a nice flavor. Just ensure they're seasoned according to your taste.
Is it possible to fry the catfish instead of baking it?
Absolutely! For a fried version, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the coated catfish steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. This method will give you a deliciously crispy exterior.
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).