13 Grilled Catfish Recipes To Pair With Cornbread, Slaw and Summer Vibes

Grilled catfish is a Southern staple that brings bold flavor, smoky aroma, and laid-back charm to any summer meal. Whether you’re firing up the backyard grill or using a stovetop grill pan, there’s something undeniably satisfying about perfectly seasoned catfish with those beautiful grill marks and tender, flaky texture. And when it’s served with warm cornbread, tangy slaw, and a tall glass of sweet tea? That’s the taste of summer in every bite.

This handpicked lineup of 13 grilled catfish recipes delivers a delicious variety of marinades, spice blends, and grilling techniques to suit every kind of outdoor cookout or weeknight dinner. From Cajun-spiced fillets with a fiery kick to citrusy, herb-rubbed options that keep things light and fresh, each recipe is crafted to highlight the natural flavor of catfish while offering exciting new ways to enjoy it. You’ll find quick-and-easy options for busy evenings, as well as bold, flavor-packed dishes perfect for impressing guests at your next barbecue.

Grilled catfish is not only versatile but also incredibly forgiving for home cooks of all levels. With these recipes, you’ll also get tips on choosing fresh fillets, achieving the perfect char, and pairing your fish with classic sides like buttery cornbread and creamy slaw. Whether you’re planning a family cookout, a picnic at the lake, or a relaxing weekend dinner on the patio, this collection brings the sunshine straight to your plate.

So fire up the grill, grab your favorite side dishes, and dive into a world of flavor that’s simple, soulful, and made for summer.

Garlic Butter Grilled Catfish

Garlic Butter Grilled Catfish is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the tender, flaky texture of catfish. This recipe is simple enough for anyone to try, making it perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner.

The catfish is marinated in a velvety garlic butter sauce, which infuses it with flavor and keeps it moist while grilling. Pair it with cornbread and slaw for a classic Southern meal that’s easy to whip up and packed with taste.

Coconut Curry Grilled Catfish

This Coconut Curry Grilled Catfish is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of coconut and the warmth of curry. The catfish fillets are marinated in a delicious blend of coconut milk and spices, making them incredibly tender and bursting with flavor. It’s a simple recipe that even beginner cooks can master, perfect for those summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.

The combination of the grilled catfish with the creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Pair it with cornbread and a side of slaw for a complete meal that captures the essence of summer vibes!

Mediterranean Style Grilled Catfish

This Mediterranean Style Grilled Catfish is a vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your grill. With its zesty marinade and fresh toppings, you’ll enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s surprisingly simple to make, making it perfect for a casual summer meal or a cozy family dinner.

The catfish is marinated in a mix of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection, giving it that smoky char you love. Pair it with a fresh slaw and cornbread, and you’re all set for a delicious meal that feels like a vacation on your plate!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the catfish fillets and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove catfish from the marinade and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
3. While the fish is grilling, mix cherry tomatoes and olives in a bowl.
4. Once the catfish is done, top with the tomato and olive mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
5. Serve with cornbread and slaw for a complete meal.

Lemon Herb Marinade Grilled Catfish

This Lemon Herb Marinade Grilled Catfish recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh catfish with a zesty twist! The marinade combines bright lemon juice and fragrant herbs, creating a flavor-packed dish that’s simple enough for any home cook. Perfect for summer barbecues, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family.

The tangy lemon and aromatic herbs complement the fish beautifully, making each bite a refreshing experience. Plus, grilling catfish is quick and easy, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Serve it alongside cornbread and coleslaw for a classic Southern feast!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill the Catfish: Remove the catfish from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the fillets on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the catfish from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving with cornbread and slaw.

Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish

If you’re craving a sweet and tangy twist on catfish, this Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish recipe is a go-to! The glaze, made with honey and mustard, adds a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with the mild taste of catfish. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal or a summer cookout.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the fish a lovely golden color and a slightly crispy exterior. It’s a dish that brings a taste of summer to your table, and when served alongside cornbread and coleslaw, it’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the glaze over them. Let them marinate for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Fish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, basting with the leftover glaze, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the catfish from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with cornbread and coleslaw for a complete meal!

Tangy BBQ Catfish Skewers

These Tangy BBQ Catfish Skewers are a delightful combination of smoky flavors and zesty barbecue sauce. The catfish absorbs the marinade beautifully, creating a tender and flavorful treat that’s perfect for summer grilling. It’s a simple recipe that you can whip up in no time, making it ideal for backyard barbecues or casual family dinners.

The skewers are easy to make and can be paired with classic sides like cornbread and coleslaw for a complete meal. The tangy BBQ sauce adds a kick, while the grilling brings out the fish’s natural sweetness. You’ll love how quick and enjoyable this dish is!

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Add the catfish pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated catfish onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot with additional BBQ sauce and your favorite sides.

Blackened Catfish Tacos

These blackened catfish tacos are a delightful way to enjoy catfish, bringing bold flavors and a bit of heat to your plate. The catfish is seasoned with a mix of spices that create a crispy crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Paired with fresh toppings, these tacos are not only delicious but also super easy to make—perfect for any summer gathering.

Serve these tacos with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings like cabbage slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing contrast. They’re a fantastic choice for a laid-back dinner or a festive taco night!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Fish: Rub the catfish fillets with olive oil and sprinkle Cajun seasoning on both sides.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned catfish for about 4-5 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In another pan, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place the cooked catfish on the tortillas, top with shredded cabbage and diced avocado, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Squeeze lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!

Spicy Cajun Grilled Catfish

Spicy Cajun Grilled Catfish is a delightful dish that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. With its crispy exterior and tender, flaky inside, it’s a dish that’s both simple to prepare and full of personality. The Cajun spices create a lively kick that pairs beautifully with cornbread and slaw, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

Ready in no time, this recipe is an easy way to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in your kitchen, the spicy marinade infuses the catfish with zest, leaving everyone craving more. Enjoy this dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over both sides of the catfish fillets.
3. Place the catfish on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. During the last minute of grilling, add lemon slices to the grill to char slightly.
5. Remove the catfish from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley and grilled lemon slices before serving.

Sweet Chili Glazed Catfish

Sweet chili glazed catfish is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors to your plate. The sweet and slightly spicy glaze complements the natural richness of the catfish, making it a tasty choice for any meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, perfect for both weeknight dinners and summer gatherings.

This recipe pairs wonderfully with cornbread and slaw, enhancing the overall experience with its sweet and savory notes. It’s a simple dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic to create the glaze.
2. Pat the catfish fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Brush each fillet with olive oil.
3. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the catfish for about 4-5 minutes on each side, brushing with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest briefly.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your sweet chili glazed catfish with cornbread and slaw!

Teriyaki Grilled Catfish

This Teriyaki Grilled Catfish recipe brings together the rich, sweet flavors of teriyaki sauce with the delicate taste of catfish. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy grilled fish, especially during the warm summer months. Simple to prepare, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

The smoky aroma from grilling pairs wonderfully with the savory sweetness of the teriyaki, making each bite a delight. Serve it alongside cornbread and slaw for a complete meal that embodies summer vibes and comfort food.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the catfish fillets, making sure they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Catfish: Place the marinated catfish on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy with cornbread and your favorite slaw.

Herbed Yogurt Sauce Grilled Catfish

This Herbed Yogurt Sauce Grilled Catfish is a delightful dish that brings out the best in fresh catfish. The grilling process adds a smoky flavor, while the herbed yogurt sauce provides a creamy, tangy contrast. It’s a simple recipe that anyone can master, making it perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight meal.

The combination of fresh herbs in the yogurt sauce elevates the catfish, leaving you with a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Pair it with classic cornbread and a crunchy slaw for a complete meal that’s bursting with summer vibes.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Catfish: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the catfish fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the Fillets: Place the catfish on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fillets are opaque and flaky.
3. Make the Herbed Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, combine yogurt, dill, parsley, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Once the catfish is cooked through, remove from the grill and top with the herbed yogurt sauce. Enjoy with cornbread and slaw on the side.

Zesty Lemon Dill Grilled Catfish

Grilled catfish with a zesty lemon dill marinade is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh dill elevate the mild taste of the fish, making it a vibrant choice for any meal. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time outdoors with family and friends.

This dish pairs beautifully with classic sides like cornbread and coleslaw, bringing a taste of the South to your table. If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious way to enjoy catfish, this recipe is a keeper!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced for grilling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill the Fish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place on the grill. Add lemon slices alongside. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the catfish and lemon slices from the grill. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Chipotle Lime Grilled Catfish

This Chipotle Lime Grilled Catfish is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings together the bold flavors of chipotle and the zesty brightness of lime. Perfect for summer cookouts, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family with its smoky, spicy taste combined with a hint of citrus.

Preparing this catfish is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice and experienced grillers. The marinade is quick to whip up, and the grilling time is short, allowing you to enjoy a tasty meal in no time.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle, honey, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the catfish for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky.
5. Remove from the grill and serve garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Final Thoughts
From backyard barbecues to easy weeknight meals, these 13 grilled catfish recipes are sure to bring smoky, Southern flavor to your table. Pair them with homemade cornbread, crisp coleslaw, and good company—and you’ve got yourself a summer feast worth savoring. Let the grilling season begin!