Favorite Cajun Catfish
A flavorful Cajun catfish dish with bold spices and a zesty lemon kick, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with rice on the side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1/4-inch water in broiling pan. Heat broiler.
- Rinse fish fillets and place in pan.
- Squeeze lemon juice over fish.
- Sprinkle with salt and garlic powder.
- Sprinkle with Cajun seafood spice until fish is completely covered.
- Sprinkle with small amount of olive oil.
- Broil for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the fish.
- Broil an additional 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Serve with cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a Cajun seasoning blend that includes more heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seafood spice. You can substitute catfish with other firm white fish like tilapia or cod if needed. Make sure to watch the fish closely while broiling to prevent overcooking, as cooking times may vary based on thickness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cajun catfish over a bed of cooked rice, which complements the spices beautifully. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh green salad for balance. It’s an excellent option for a casual family dinner or to impress guests. This dish pairs beautifully with Seafood Roll-Ups, offering a delightful 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 the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery. Pair with fresh rice or a green salad for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Cajun Catfish contains roughly 44 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg 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 fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To do this safely, place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for quicker defrosting. Pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and broiling.
What can I serve with Cajun catfish to make it a full meal?
In addition to rice, consider serving Cajun catfish with cornbread or a side of coleslaw for a southern touch. Grilled vegetables or a corn salad would also enhance the meal. For a refreshing drink, sweet tea or lemonade pairs well with the flavors.
How do I know when the catfish is done cooking?
The catfish is done cooking when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque throughout. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets, so checking frequently is crucial to prevent overcooking. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F.
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).