Simmons Baked Catfish
Simmons Baked Catfish features tender fillets topped with a flavorful bell pepper, bread crumb, mayonnaise, and mustard mixture, baked to perfection—ideal for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, sauté bell pepper in butter for 5 minutes.
- Lightly stir in bread crumbs, mayonnaise, and mustard until blended.
- Arrange the fish fillets in a buttered 3-quart shallow baking dish.
- Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the crumb mixture on top of the fish.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Do not overbake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor. If you're out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt works as a tangy substitute. Ensure the catfish is fresh and properly thawed if frozen, as this will help it cook evenly. Adjust the baking time based on the thickness of the fillets for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked catfish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious flavors. For a complete experience, consider serving it with a side of Coastal Chili for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispy topping without overcooking the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simmons Baked Catfish contains roughly 566 calories, with 11g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 767mg per serving (33% 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 a different type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While catfish is traditional, you can substitute other firm white fish such as tilapia or cod. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different fish may require adjustments to achieve the perfect flakiness.
How do I know when the catfish is fully cooked?
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. Avoid overbaking to keep the fish moist and tender.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crumb mixture and season the fish ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them separately. When ready to cook, assemble and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).