Oven-Fried Catfish(Makes 8 Servings)
Crispy oven-fried catfish features a golden breadcrumb crust with tender fish, perfect for a flavorful and healthy seafood dinner that appeals to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place bread cubes in a food processor and process for 30 seconds or until breadcrumbs are fine.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Place toasted breadcrumbs in a shallow dish; set aside.
- Increase oven temperature to 450°F.
- Dredge dressed catfish in mayonnaise, then coat with toasted breadcrumbs.
- Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange coated fish on it.
- Bake at 450°F for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crispy.
- Serve with lemon wedges and parsley sprigs if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs or using a flavored mayonnaise. Ensure the catfish is patted dry before dredging to help the coating stick better. If you don't have French bread, any crusty bread can work well for the breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the oven-fried catfish with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with lemon wedges and parsley sprigs for garnish. For a complete seafood experience, consider adding a side of Crawfish Macltshoe or a creamy dip like Salmon Log Spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover catfish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness. Avoid using a microwave, as it may make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven-Fried Catfish(Makes 8 Servings) contains roughly 1421 calories, with 1g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 137g 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish. Just ensure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing the dish. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier finish.
What can I use instead of French bread for breadcrumbs?
If you don't have French bread, you can use any crusty bread like sourdough or Italian bread. Alternatively, store-bought breadcrumbs can work, but for the best flavor and texture, homemade is recommended.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the French bread with gluten-free bread. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs available in stores. Just ensure that the mayonnaise and any other condiments used are also gluten-free.
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).