Lemon Pepper Catfish
A quick and flavorful dish featuring tender catfish fillets seasoned with lemon pepper and brushed with melted butter. Perfect for seafood lovers, this dish offers a zesty, buttery flavor profile that pairs well with rice or vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the catfish fillets and place them in a pan.
- Brush the fillets with melted butter.
- Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning evenly over the fish.
- Cover the pan with foil or a lid.
- Broil the fish for 10 minutes.
- Turn the catfish fillets over.
- Repeat brushing with melted butter and sprinkling lemon pepper seasoning.
- Broil for another 10 minutes or until the fish flakes apart.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the catfish fillets in a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil for about 30 minutes before cooking. If you don’t have lemon pepper seasoning, you can create your own by mixing black pepper, lemon zest, and salt. Make sure to keep an eye on the fish while broiling to prevent overcooking, as broilers can vary in intensity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon pepper catfish with a side of steamed vegetables and a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Tangy Tuna Cocktail as a refreshing appetizer. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa to soak up the juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the catfish on a baking sheet and cover with foil, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps preserve the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Pepper Catfish contains roughly 131 calories, with 1g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.
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, frozen catfish fillets can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed fillets in cold water for quick thawing.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can substitute olive oil or a plant-based margarine for the butter if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will provide moisture and a rich flavor to the catfish while keeping it healthy.
How can I tell when the catfish is done cooking?
The catfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F. Keep a close watch during the final broiling to avoid overcooking.
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).