Crusty Catfish
Crusty catfish fillets coated with crushed pecans and a flavorful mustard-milk dip, baked to crispy perfection—ideal for seafood lovers seeking a crunchy, savory dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Cut fish into thin strips and double-check for bones.
- In a bowl, mix 2 parts Dijon mustard and 1 part milk.
- Salt and pepper the fish fillets.
- Dip the fish strips in the mustard-milk mixture.
- Roll the coated fish in crushed pecans.
- Place the coated fish on a well-greased cookie sheet.
- Bake until the outside coating is crisp and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mustard-milk mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute. Ensure the fish is thoroughly coated for a crusty texture. Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crusty catfish hot, garnished with a wedge of lemon for a zesty kick. It pairs beautifully with Snow Peas or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Easy Shrimp Etouffee or a bowl of Miso Soup for a satisfying seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the catfish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through, which helps maintain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty Catfish contains roughly 14 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Just ensure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better and stay crispy during baking.
What can I serve with crusty catfish?
Crusty catfish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or seasoned rice. For a more filling option, try serving it with pasta or a hearty side like roasted potatoes to balance the flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the crushed pecans with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. Check that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy a delicious crust on your fish without any gluten concerns.
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).