Creole Baked Catfish
A flavorful Creole-style baked catfish dish with rich tomato sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices, perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic in oil until tender.
- Add canned whole tomatoes and tomato sauce; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Place dressed and skinned catfish in an oiled 3-quart casserole, seasoning with seasoned salt and pepper.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the catfish.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 400°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the vegetable sauté. If you don’t have seasoned salt, you can substitute with a mix of regular salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Ensure the catfish is evenly coated with the tomato sauce for maximum flavor absorption. This dish can also be adapted with other fish varieties in seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creole Baked Catfish over a bed of rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, pair with a fresh side salad or sautéed vegetables. This dish is a fantastic companion to Cajun Catfish Stew or can be enjoyed alongside Jambalaya (Shrimp) for a hearty seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the catfish and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Baked Catfish contains roughly 989 calories, with 13g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and better texture. Pat it dry after thawing to remove excess moisture, allowing the seasonings to adhere better.
What sides go well with Creole Baked Catfish?
This dish pairs well with traditional sides like dirty rice, coleslaw, or cornbread. A light cucumber salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Consider adding some roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more spice, increase the amount of pepper or seasoned salt. You might also include diced hot peppers during the sautéing step or serve with a spicy hot sauce on the side. Experimenting with spices is a great way to customize the heat level.
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).