13+ Grilled Catfish Recipes Perfect For Summer Nights

Some of my favorite summer memories always start with the sizzle of the grill and the gentle breeze carrying the scent of smoky fish through the backyard. I still remember the first time we made grilled catfish on a sticky June night, cousins running between lawn chairs and lemonade sweating in mason jars. If you’re looking for a way to gather friends or just switch up your own weeknight routine, these 13+ grilled catfish recipes perfect for summer nights bring that same joy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or sneaking in a quiet patio dinner, there’s something here that’ll make your summer evenings taste even sweeter.

1. Classic Southern-Style Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the go-to catfish recipe I grew up with—just a touch of Cajun spice and a few pantry staples. It really lets the fresh flavor of catfish shine, and it cooks up quickly, so you can spend more time outdoors. It’s perfect for family grills or a low-fuss weeknight meal.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Pat the catfish fillets dry and brush them with olive oil.
2. Mix the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt in a small bowl, then sprinkle generously over both sides of the fish.
3. Heat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates well.
4. Place the catfish on the grill and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
5. Remove and serve with lemon wedges and parsley.

Flavor Boost: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets just after grilling.

Best Pairings: Try with creamy coleslaw, grilled corn, or potato salad.

2. Grilled Catfish Tacos with Avocado Slaw

Why You’ll Love It:

Taco night gets a summery twist with smoky, grilled catfish and a crunchy, creamy slaw. These are a hit on busy weeknights or as the star of a backyard gathering. The avocado slaw cools the spice and adds a pop of color.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

How to Make It:

1. Rub catfish fillets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
2. Grill on medium-high for 5–6 minutes per side.
3. While fish cooks, toss cabbage, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice to make slaw.
4. Warm tortillas on the grill for 1 minutes.
5. Fill tortillas with flaked catfish and avocado slaw. Top with red onion.

Flavor Boost: Add a drizzle of chipotle mayo.

Serving Idea: Serve with watermelon wedges and iced tea.

3. Honey-Lime Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

The sweet-and-zesty glaze makes this a summertime crowd-pleaser, and it’s just as good with simple sides as over a salad. I usually make extra glaze for drizzling, because it goes fast.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

How to Make It:

1. Stir together honey, lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, and salt.
2. Brush both sides of catfish with half the glaze.
3. Grill over medium-high for 5–6 minutes per side, brushing with more glaze as it cooks.
4. Garnish with cilantro and serve with extra glaze.

Best Pairings: Pairs well with grilled zucchini and rice pilaf.

Swap This With That: Try lemon instead of lime for a slightly different flavor.

4. Spicy Cajun Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

I pull out this recipe any time someone claims they don’t love fish. The bold Cajun rub and smoky char turn catfish into something hearty and satisfying. It’s spicy, but not overwhelming—perfect for those who want a little kick.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Remoulade sauce for serving

How to Make It:

1. Brush catfish with olive oil.
2. Mix the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt, then coat fillets.
3. Grill over high heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
4. Garnish with green onions and serve with remoulade.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook, or the fish will dry out; keep an eye on it after flipping.

Serving Idea: Great with roasted potatoes or a green salad.

5. Lemon Garlic Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

This quick, bright recipe is the one I default to when we have unexpected guests. The garlic-laced lemon marinade is always a crowd-pleaser, and it makes the house smell incredible.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon slices and parsley for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate catfish in mixture for 10 minutes.
3. Grill on medium heat 5–6 minutes per side.
4. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Meal Prep Tip: Marinate the fish in advance and store covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours.

Best Pairings: Steamed asparagus or a herbed quinoa salad work nicely.

6. Blackened Grilled Catfish Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love It:

These sandwiches are my answer to busy summer nights. Piled high with spicy catfish, crisp lettuce, and a spread of Creole mayo, they’re messy in the best way and always disappear fast.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 brioche buns
• 4 leaves romaine lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
• Pickle spears, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Coat catfish in olive oil then blackening seasoning.
2. Grill catfish over medium-high 4–5 minutes per side.
3. Mix mayonnaise with Creole mustard to make a quick sauce.
4. Toast buns on grill.
5. Assemble sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, catfish, and sauce.

Swap This With That: Use ciabatta instead of brioche for a different texture.

Best Pairings: Serve with kettle chips or grilled corn.

7. Mediterranean Grilled Catfish with Tomato-Olive Relish

Why You’ll Love It:

When I want something light but flavorful, I go Mediterranean. The bright relish is loaded with fresh tomatoes and briny olives, and makes a plain catfish fillet feel restaurant-worthy.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 14 minutes

Total Time: 34 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Brush catfish with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano and salt.
2. Grill over medium for 6–7 minutes per side.
3. Combine tomatoes, olives, red onion, vinegar, and basil for relish.
4. Top hot catfish with relish and serve with lemon.

Flavor Boost: Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the finished dish.

Serving Idea: Good over couscous or alongside grilled zucchini.

8. Grilled Catfish with Mango Salsa

Why You’ll Love It:

This tropical twist brightens up any meal and gets kids excited about fish. The sweet, tangy salsa pairs perfectly with mild catfish and makes it look (and taste) festive.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons red onion, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Brush catfish with olive oil, chili powder, and salt.
2. Grill fillets about 6 minutes per side.
3. Combine mango, bell pepper, cilantro, red onion, and lime juice for salsa.
4. Spoon mango salsa over hot catfish; serve with extra lime.

Meal Prep Tip: Make the salsa a few hours in advance to let flavors develop.

Best Pairings: Jasmine rice and sautéed green beans are great with this.

9. Grilled Catfish Skewers with Sweet Pepper

Why You’ll Love It:

Skewers are fun for cookouts and make serving easy. The sweet peppers caramelize as they grill alongside the catfish, picking up the smokiness and giving every bite color and crunch.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups sweet bell peppers (red, yellow, green), cut into chunks
• Bamboo or metal skewers
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for dip)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for dip)

How to Make It:

1. Toss catfish and peppers with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Thread fish and peppers onto skewers, alternating.
3. Grill over medium-high, turning occasionally, for 8–10 minutes.
4. Mix Greek yogurt and lemon juice for a quick dip and serve with skewers.

Personal Note: These skewers are always the first thing gone at our family BBQs.

Serving Idea: Try with a simple mixed green salad.

10. Herb-Rubbed Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

This one’s all about fresh herbs—just chop up whatever’s growing rampant in your garden or fridge drawer. It’s light, aromatic, and makes a great centerpiece for a relaxed dinner.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• Zest from 1 lemon

How to Make It:

1. Mix olive oil, parsley, dill, basil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
2. Rub mixture over both sides of catfish fillets.
3. Grill over medium for 6 minutes per side.
4. Serve with extra fresh herbs and a pat of butter if you like.

Swap This With That: Use thyme or cilantro if you prefer.

Best Pairings: Herb-roasted potatoes, and garlicky sautéed spinach.

11. Maple-Chili Glazed Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Every time I make this, people ask for the glaze recipe. The sweet maple and mild chili heat are just the right contrast, and it gets gorgeously sticky as it caramelizes on the grill.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 14 minutes

Total Time: 24 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

How to Make It:

1. Stir together maple syrup, chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, and salt.
2. Brush over catfish fillets.
3. Grill over medium-high for 7 minutes each side, brushing with glaze halfway through.
4. Top with cilantro just before serving.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.

Meal Prep Tip: Double the glaze and use as a drizzle for veggies.

12. Grilled Catfish Po’Boy

Why You’ll Love It:

Much lighter than a fried Po’Boy, this grilled sandwich packs all the New Orleans flavor without the heaviness. It works for lunch or dinner and is a guaranteed conversation starter.

Serving size: Serves 2–4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 large catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 French sandwich rolls
• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/4 cup remoulade sauce

How to Make It:

1. Rub catfish with oil and Cajun seasoning.
2. Grill fillets for 6 minutes per side.
3. Toast rolls lightly and spread with remoulade.
4. Layer with catfish, lettuce, and tomato.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use hoagie rolls if French bread is hard to find.

Personal Note: I love making these for a quick weeknight dinner—no utensils required.

13. Vietnamese-Style Grilled Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Fragrant with fish sauce, lime, and fresh herbs, this catfish makes a great change from classic flavors. I love serving it with rice noodles and crunchy veggies for a bright, filling meal.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped mint
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Sliced cucumber and carrots, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Whisk fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, oil, and garlic.
2. Marinate catfish fillets for 10–15 minutes.
3. Grill over medium heat for about 6 minutes per side.
4. Garnish with mint, cilantro, and serve with cucumber, carrot, and extra lime.

Serving Idea: Serve over cold rice noodles for a light meal.

Flavor Boost: Add thinly sliced fresh chilies for extra heat.

14. Grilled Catfish Caesar Salad

Why You’ll Love It:

A summery twist on the classic, swapping chicken for smoky fish. The warm grilled catfish contrasts with crisp, cool greens—great for a lighter dinner that still feels satisfying.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan
• Caesar dressing, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Brush catfish with olive oil, lemon juice, and pepper.
2. Grill for 6 minutes per side, then cut into strips.
3. Toss romaine, cherry tomatoes, and croutons in a large bowl.
4. Top salad with grilled catfish, Parmesan, and drizzle with dressing.

Best Pairings: Add a side of garlic breadsticks or a cold lager.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overdress the salad, or it’ll get soggy fast.

15. Grilled Catfish with Pineapple Salsa

Why You’ll Love It:

This one’s a beach cookout classic in our house—the pineapple salsa brings a burst of sweetness and color, and it’s so refreshing on a hot night.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 2 tablespoons red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

How to Make It:

1. Rub catfish with olive oil, chili powder, and salt.
2. Grill 6 minutes per side.
3. Mix pineapple, onion, cilantro, and lime for salsa.
4. Spoon salsa over fish and serve.

Serving Idea: Pairs perfectly with coconut rice.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use canned pineapple tidbits (well drained) if fresh isn’t available.

16. Grilled Catfish and Summer Veggie Foil Packets

Why You’ll Love It:

Everything steams together in a foil packet for easy cleanup—perfect for nights when you’d rather be relaxing outside than scrubbing dishes. The veggies and fish cook up tender and flavorful.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 16 minutes

Total Time: 36 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Chopped parsley, for garnish
• 4 large pieces of aluminum foil

How to Make It:

1. Place a catfish fillet in the center of each foil piece.
2. Surround with zucchini, squash, tomatoes, and green beans.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with Italian seasoning and salt.
4. Fold foil to seal.
5. Grill over medium for 16 minutes, turning once.
6. Open carefully, garnish with parsley and lemon.

Meal Prep Tip: Prep veggie mix ahead and store in the fridge.

Best Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or over quinoa.

17. Grilled Catfish with Chipotle-Lime Butter

Why You’ll Love It:

The smoky chipotle-lime butter melts into the warm fish for every bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to drag dinner out on the porch until it’s dark outside.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, minced
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives

How to Make It:

1. Mix butter, chipotle, lime juice, and half the chives; form into a log and chill.
2. Brush catfish with olive oil, cumin, and salt.
3. Grill catfish for 6 minutes per side.
4. Top with a slice of chipotle-lime butter and remaining chives.

Swap This With That: Jalapeño can be used if you want less smoke.

Best Pairings: Good with grilled corn or a tomato-cucumber salad.

FAQ

What’s the best way to keep catfish from sticking to the grill?

Brush the fillets lightly with oil and preheat the grill until it’s nice and hot. If you still worry about sticking, use a grill basket or a piece of foil with some oil.

How do you know when grilled catfish is done?

It’s done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork, usually about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Can I grill frozen catfish fillets?

It’s best to thaw catfish completely before grilling for even cooking and a better texture. Thawed fillets also hold seasonings better.

What sides go well with grilled catfish?

Classic sides include coleslaw, grilled corn, potato salad, salads with bright herbs, or steamed rice. Tropical salsas and fresh greens are especially good in summer.

Conclusion

There’s something about grilling catfish that makes summer nights feel more special—maybe it’s the ease, maybe it’s the company, or maybe it’s just the simple pleasure of a fresh-cooked meal outdoors. With these 13+ grilled catfish recipes perfect for summer nights, you’ll have so many ways to enjoy good flavor and good company, from quick tacos to vibrant salads and easy foil packets. Don’t be afraid to try new spices, salsas, or marinade ideas as you go. The best meals come from mixing things up and finding what you love right there on the grill. Happy summer cooking—may your nights be tasty and your gatherings plentiful.