Spicy Oven-Fried Catfish
Crispy, spicy oven-fried catfish with bold flavors and a crunchy coating perfect for a quick, satisfying seafood meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F and position the oven rack above the middle.
- In a bowl, combine cornmeal, bread crumbs, salt or paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme.
- Dip each catfish into the milk, ensuring it is well coated.
- Dredge the milk-coated fish in the cornmeal mixture, coating evenly.
- Place the coated fish in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular pan coated with vegetable cooking spray.
- Pour melted margarine over the fish.
- Bake uncovered until the fish flakes very easily with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the dry bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes. If you want an extra kick, consider adding more cayenne pepper or even a splash of hot sauce to the milk. Ensure the catfish is fresh for best results, and try marinating it in buttermilk for a few hours to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spicy oven-fried catfish with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Nannan'S Easy Shrimp Creole for a seafood feast, and don't forget some cornbread to soak up any juices. A squeeze of lemon on top adds a bright finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it stays crispy. You can also reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Oven-Fried Catfish contains roughly 254 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (221% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1824mg per serving (79% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before proceeding with the recipe. Pat the fish dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
What can I serve with spicy oven-fried catfish?
Spicy oven-fried catfish goes well with sides like baked potatoes, rice, or a mixed green salad. You can also serve it with dipping sauces like tartar sauce or a spicy remoulade for added flavor.
How do I know when the catfish is done cooking?
The catfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Keep an eye on the fish while baking to prevent overcooking, as it can become dry.
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).