14 BBQ Catfish Recipes For That Perfect Smoky, Tender Finish

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly grilled or smoked catfish—crispy, charred edges giving way to flaky, moist flesh infused with smoky, spicy, or sweet flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast, BBQ catfish is a dish that brings people together, especially when cooked low and slow over smoldering wood or seared hot and fast for a quick, flavorful meal.

In this collection, we’ve gathered 14 mouthwatering BBQ catfish recipes that cover every style—from Cajun-blackened fillets with a fiery kick to sweet and sticky glazed whole fish, kissed by hickory smoke. Picture juicy catfish rubbed with paprika and brown sugar, caramelizing over an open flame, or tender fillets bathed in a tangy, buttery BBQ sauce that clings to every bite. Maybe you prefer yours wrapped in foil with lemon and herbs, steaming to perfection, or perhaps you’re all about that crispy skin, achieved by a screaming-hot cast iron grill.

We’ve included easy weeknight grilling tricks, slow-smoking techniques for weekend feasts, and bold marinades that take catfish from simple to spectacular. Plus, we’ll share tips on choosing the freshest fish, pairing sides (think creamy coleslaw, grilled corn, or buttery potatoes), and even turning leftovers into next-day fish tacos or po’boys.

So fire up the grill, grab your favorite seasoning blend, and get ready to transform humble catfish into a smoky, succulent masterpiece. Your next BBQ just got a whole lot more exciting.

Garlic Butter BBQ Catfish

This Garlic Butter BBQ Catfish is a mouthwatering dish that’s both simple to make and full of flavor. The combination of rich garlic butter and smoky BBQ creates a delicate balance that enhances the natural taste of the catfish, making each bite a treat. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners, this recipe delivers tender fish that’s infused with buttery goodness.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Whether you’re a grilling pro or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using a grill basket, lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Catfish: Place the marinated catfish on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Enjoy your smoky, buttery catfish!

Maple Glazed Catfish with Pecans

This maple glazed catfish recipe combines the subtle sweetness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans, creating a delightful dish that is both simple to make and full of flavor. The catfish becomes tender and flaky, while the glaze adds a rich, smoky sweetness that makes each bite irresistible.

Not only is this dish easy to whip up on a weeknight, but it also impresses guests with its unique flavor profile. Serve it alongside some steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture generously over each catfish fillet.
4. Place the fillets on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the fillets to toast them slightly.
6. Remove from the grill and serve immediately with any remaining glaze drizzled over the top.

Smoky Chipotle Catfish Tacos

Smoky Chipotle Catfish Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, featuring flaky, tender catfish infused with a rich chipotle flavor. The combination of smoky spices and fresh ingredients creates a burst of taste in every bite. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or a fun dish for your next gathering.

These tacos are filled with grilled catfish, topped with fresh cilantro, and served with zesty lime for a refreshing finish. The smoky chipotle seasoning brings just the right amount of heat to elevate the dish without overwhelming your palate. Whether you’re a catfish lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons chipotle seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Catfish: Rub the catfish fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with chipotle seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Catfish: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the fish is grilling, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Break the grilled catfish into pieces and fill each tortilla with the fish, black beans, and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!

Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish

This Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it a delightful dish for any barbecue gathering. The glaze not only enhances the natural flavors of the catfish but also gives it a beautiful golden color when cooked. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it great for cooks of all skill levels.

The honey mustard glaze creates a sticky, caramelized finish that complements the tender, flaky texture of the catfish. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Catfish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the honey mustard glaze over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stove.
4. Grill the Fish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with additional glaze during cooking, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.

Crispy Fried BBQ Catfish

Fried BBQ catfish is a delightful twist on traditional fried fish, bringing together the crispy crunch of a perfectly fried exterior and the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue. This dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for gatherings and casual meals. With its tender meat and savory spices, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

The combination of spices and the crispy coating gives the catfish a unique flavor that pairs well with classic sides like coleslaw or fries. It’s a simple recipe that can impress guests or satisfy a family craving for something delicious and filling. Let’s get started on making this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Your favorite BBQ sauce for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Fillets: Remove the catfish from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture until fully coated.
4. Fry the Catfish: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the catfish fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve: Serve the crispy fried BBQ catfish hot with your favorite BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Texas Style Smoked Catfish

Texas Style Smoked Catfish is a delightful dish that perfectly embodies smoky flavors and tender meat. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grillers. The combination of spices and slow smoking brings out the best in catfish, creating a meal that’s sure to impress.

The catfish absorbs the smoky goodness, resulting in a juicy and flavorful fish that pairs well with your favorite sides. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish stands out. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering treat!

Ingredients

• 2 whole catfish, cleaned and scaled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Catfish: Rub the marinade all over the cleaned catfish, making sure to coat the insides as well. Place lemon slices inside the cavity of the fish. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Smoker: Get your smoker ready by preheating it to 225°F (107°C). Use wood chips like hickory or mesquite for an extra smoky flavor.
4. Smoke the Catfish: Place the marinated catfish on the smoker grates and close the lid. Smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Serve: Remove the catfish from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your Texas Style Smoked Catfish!

Spicy Cajun BBQ Catfish

Spicy Cajun BBQ Catfish combines the rich, flaky texture of catfish with bold Cajun spices for a dish that’s full of warmth and flavor. The smoky BBQ glaze elevates the fish, making it a perfect choice for grilling season or any backyard gathering. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it accessible for both seasoned cooks and those just starting out in the kitchen.

The blend of spices brings a delightful kick, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the catfish. Pair it with some sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

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
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the catfish fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stovetop.
3. Cook the Catfish: Place the marinated catfish fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
4. Add BBQ Sauce: During the last minute of cooking, brush the fillets with BBQ sauce and close the grill lid to let the sauce caramelize slightly.
5. Serve: Remove the catfish from the grill, drizzle with lemon juice, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your spicy Cajun BBQ catfish with your favorite sides!

Lemon Herb Grilled Catfish

This Lemon Herb Grilled Catfish recipe is a delightful choice for a quick and tasty meal. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs make the catfish light and refreshing, perfect for summer grilling. Plus, it’s straightforward to whip up, making it a great option for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.

The smoky finish from the grill pairs beautifully with the tender, juicy fish, while the zesty lemon elevates the dish. Serve it alongside some grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, 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 about 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Catfish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy with extra lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Mediterranean BBQ Catfish

This Mediterranean BBQ Catfish is a delightful dish that combines smoky flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients. The catfish is marinated with herbs and spices, making it tender and infused with a unique taste that will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.

Easy to make, this recipe will impress your friends and family with its bright flavors and colorful presentation. Serve it with a refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Catfish: 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. Make sure the grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Catfish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Catfish Skewers

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Catfish Skewers are a delightful twist on traditional barbecue. The catfish fillets are marinated in a zesty blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making each bite an explosion of taste. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for grilling season, bringing a smoky, tender finish that everyone will love.

The sweetness from the marinade perfectly balances the subtle heat, ensuring these skewers appeal to a wide range of palates. Plus, they’re a fun way to enjoy catfish, especially when paired with colorful veggies on the grill!

Ingredients

• 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• Wood or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Marinate Catfish: Add the catfish cubes to the marinade, mixing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated catfish, bell pepper, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating between the fish and veggies.
4. Preheat Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until catfish is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot, drizzled with any remaining marinade if desired.

Herb and Citrus Marinated Catfish

This herb and citrus marinated catfish is a delightful way to savor the flavors of summer. The fresh herbs and zesty citrus blend perfectly, creating a dish that’s bright, tasty, and incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll love how the marinade infuses the fish with a refreshing taste, making it a perfect option for grilling or baking.

Not only is this recipe simple, but it also brings a lovely combination of tangy and savory notes that enhance the natural sweetness of the catfish. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Juice and zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, orange juice and zest, parsley, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Grill or Bake: Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish flakes easily with a fork. If baking, place the fillets on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
4. Serve: Remove the catfish from the heat and garnish with extra herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Peach BBQ Glazed Catfish

This Peach BBQ Glazed Catfish is a delightful twist on traditional BBQ fish recipes. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and tangy BBQ sauce creates a flavor profile that brightens up the dish, making it not only tasty but also fun to prepare.

Perfect for summer grilling, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for any gathering. The catfish turns tender and smoky, making it an ideal option for a laid-back barbecue or a flavorful dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 2 catfish fillets
• 1 cup peach preserves
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh peaches, sliced (for grilling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix peach preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a grill basket, preheat it as well.
4. Grill the Catfish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Reserve some marinade for basting.
5. Grill the Peaches: While the catfish is cooking, place the sliced peaches on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are slightly charred and caramelized.
6. Serve: Once the catfish is cooked, brush with any leftover marinade and serve it with the grilled peaches. Enjoy!

Bourbon BBQ Catfish

Bourbon BBQ Catfish brings a delightful twist to your grilling routine. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the smoky essence of barbecue with the subtle sweetness of bourbon, creating a mouthwatering experience. The catfish fillets remain tender and juicy, perfectly absorbing the rich flavors while being easy to prepare.

This recipe is great for both seasoned grillers and beginners alike. The marinade is straightforward, making preparation a breeze. You’ll enjoy the blend of spices and the unique taste of bourbon that elevates the dish. Perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner, this Bourbon BBQ Catfish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s clean and well oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Catfish: Remove the catfish from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Once grilled, remove the catfish from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Catfish with your favorite sides!

Tennessee Style Catfish with Vinegar Sauce

Tennessee style catfish is a delightful dish that combines the smoky flavors of BBQ with a tangy vinegar sauce. It offers a beautiful balance of heat and zest, making it a real treat for your taste buds. Plus, this recipe is quite simple to prepare, allowing even novice cooks to impress their guests.

The vinegar sauce adds a unique twist, enhancing the natural flavors of the catfish while keeping it moist and tender. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a comforting dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the catfish fillets.
3. Grill the catfish for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, and hot sauce. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Once the catfish is cooked, remove it from the grill and drizzle the vinegar sauce over the fillets. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Final Thoughts
BBQ catfish is more than just food—it’s an experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these recipes prove that catfish can hold its own against ribs, brisket, and chicken when it comes to smoky, tender perfection. With the right technique and a little creativity, you can turn this Southern staple into a dish that steals the show at any cookout. So pick a recipe, light the coals, and let the rich, smoky aroma of BBQ catfish work its magic. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you.