Parmesan Catfish
Crispy Parmesan-coated catfish fillets with a flavorful spice crust, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or seafood lovers seeking a cheesy, savory dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine grated Parmesan cheese, yellow cornmeal, paprika, and ground red pepper in a large ziptop plastic bag.
- Add the catfish fillets to the bag, seal it, and shake to coat the fillets with the cheese mixture.
- Place the coated fillets on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray, discarding any remaining cheese mixture.
- Broil the fillets 3 inches from the heat with the oven door partially open for 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the catfish fillets in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before coating them. If you don't have cornmeal, crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs can serve as suitable substitutes for a crunchy texture. Adjust the paprika and ground red pepper to your spice preference for a milder or spicier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Parmesan catfish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Lo-Cal Easy Jello Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also complement the dish with a squeeze of lemon or a tartar sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Parmesan catfish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Catfish contains roughly 834 calories, with 19g protein, 177g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before coating and cooking. This will ensure even cooking and better texture.
What can I serve with Parmesan catfish?
Parmesan catfish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice pilaf or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal. A crisp green salad or sautéed greens can add a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the fish.
Is it possible to bake the catfish instead of broiling?
Yes, you can bake the catfish instead of broiling. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated fillets on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. This method is great for a more hands-off approach.
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).