14 Catfish Recipes That Are Crispy, Saucy, Or Simply Next-Level

There’s something irresistible about catfish—whether it’s fried to golden perfection, smothered in a rich, tangy sauce, or grilled with bold spices that make every bite unforgettable. This humble fish, with its tender, flaky texture and mild sweetness, can be transformed into so many mouthwatering dishes that it deserves a starring role on your dinner table. But how do you take catfish from simple to spectacular?

We’ve rounded up 14 must-try catfish recipes that cover all the bases—crispy Southern-style fried catfish with a crackling cornmeal crust, saucy Creole smothered catfish swimming in a gravy of onions and peppers, blackened catfish with a fiery spice rub that’ll make your taste buds dance, and even next-level twists like catfish tacos with zesty lime slaw or buttery pecan-crusted catfish that feels downright gourmet. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or something fresh and unexpected, there’s a recipe here to match your mood.

But this isn’t just about cooking fish—it’s about elevating every bite with the right techniques and flavors. Want that fried catfish extra crunchy? We’ve got the secret. Need your grilled catfish to stay juicy? We’ll show you how. Plus, we’re sharing pro tips for sides that pair perfectly, from creamy coleslaw to cheesy grits and hushpuppies so good they could steal the show. So grab your skillet, fire up the grill, or heat that oil—because these catfish recipes are about to take your meals to a whole new level.

Honey Garlic Baked Catfish

This Honey Garlic Baked Catfish is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The fish is tender and flaky, coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s a simple recipe that delivers impressive results, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. Plus, it’s baked, so you can enjoy a healthier version of catfish without sacrificing taste!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the catfish fillets on the baking sheet and brush generously with the honey garlic mixture.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the fish.
5. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Catfish Nuggets with Spicy Dipping Sauce

Catfish nuggets are a delightful treat that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for snacking or as a meal, these bite-sized pieces are packed with flavor and pair wonderfully with a spicy dipping sauce. Making them is simple and will surely impress family and friends.

The crispy coating gives these nuggets a satisfying crunch, while the spiced dipping sauce adds a kick that takes the dish to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking for a tasty snack, these catfish nuggets will not disappoint!

Ingredients

• 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Oil for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Coat the Catfish: Remove the catfish from the buttermilk and allow excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot.
5. Fry the Nuggets: Carefully add the coated catfish pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, hot sauce, and lemon juice. Mix well.
7. Serve: Enjoy the catfish nuggets hot with the spicy dipping sauce on the side!

Grilled Catfish with Mango Salsa

This Grilled Catfish with Mango Salsa is a fresh and delightful dish that perfectly balances the smoky flavors from the grill with the sweetness of the mango. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

The catfish fillets are marinated briefly to enhance their natural flavor, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flaky texture. Topping it off with a vibrant mango salsa adds a burst of flavor that complements the fish beautifully. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress while being easy to whip up!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Marinate the Catfish: In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the catfish fillets and let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.
3. Grill the Catfish: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated catfish fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Place the grilled catfish on plates and top generously with mango salsa. Enjoy!

Spicy Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich

Get ready for a flavor-packed experience with this Spicy Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich! This recipe takes crispy catfish fillets and piles them high in a soft roll with fresh toppings and zesty sauce, making it a treat for your taste buds. It’s simple to make, perfect for a casual lunch or a fun dinner.

The combination of succulent catfish, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying crunch with every bite. You’ll love how the heat from the spices mingles with the richness of the sauce, taking this sandwich to the next level. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 catfish fillets
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 hoagie rolls
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/2 cup spicy mayonnaise (or regular with hot sauce)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: In a bowl, mix cornmeal, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg and add buttermilk.
2. Coat the Fish: Dip the catfish fillets in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture until fully coated.
3. Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread spicy mayonnaise on each hoagie roll. Add the crispy catfish, then top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Close the sandwich, slice in half if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious and spicy catfish po’ boy!

Catfish Curry with Coconut Milk

Catfish curry with coconut milk is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This dish features tender catfish fillets simmered in a rich, creamy coconut sauce, infused with spices and vibrant vegetables for a well-rounded taste experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a fusion of sweet and savory notes, and the creamy texture makes it a favorite among seafood lovers.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Serve it over rice or with warm naan for a complete dining experience!

Ingredients

• 2 catfish fillets
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, garlic, and ginger until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.
2. Add the chopped bell pepper and sliced carrot to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for another minute until the spices are well mixed with the vegetables.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the catfish fillets to the sauce, making sure they are submerged. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan.

Catfish Fillet Francaise

Catfish Fillet Francaise is a delightful twist on a classic dish. This recipe features catfish fillets that are lightly battered and pan-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior while keeping the fish tender and juicy inside. The dish is then drizzled with a zesty lemon sauce that adds a refreshing brightness, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Simple to prepare, this dish comes together in a short amount of time and requires minimal ingredients. You’ll love how the combination of textures and flavors elevates this classic fish into something special!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Breading: In one bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
2. Bread the Fish: Dip each catfish fillet first in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Cook the Fish: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Lemon Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute.
5. Serve: Plate the catfish fillets and drizzle with the lemon sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Southern Fried Catfish with Remoulade

Southern Fried Catfish is a true comfort food that brings the flavors of the South right to your table. This dish features crispy, golden-brown fillets that are seasoned to perfection, delivering a crunchy bite that pairs beautifully with a creamy and tangy remoulade sauce. It’s simple to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with friends and family.

The secret to great fried catfish lies in the seasoning and the frying technique. A good soak in buttermilk helps to tenderize the fish while adding flavor. The coating of cornmeal adds that signature crunch that everyone loves. Serve it with a side of lemon wedges and your homemade remoulade for a truly delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: Soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the fish and adds flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Fish: Remove the fillets from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the fillets in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating.
4. Fry the Fish: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the catfish fillets, frying for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried catfish from the oil and drain on paper towels. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with remoulade and lemon wedges.

Crispy Catfish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Crispy catfish tacos are a delightful twist on classic fish tacos, combining crunchy battered fish with a refreshing cilantro lime slaw. The contrast between the crispy catfish and the zesty slaw offers a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also brings a fun and vibrant dish to your dinner table.

With a light and crispy coating, the catfish is pan-fried to golden perfection, while the slaw adds a fresh and tangy kick. Topped with creamy avocado slices, these tacos are perfect for a casual meal or a special gathering. Get ready to enjoy a tasty treat that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying
• 4 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

1. Soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove catfish from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture.
4. Fry catfish in hot oil for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a bowl, combine cabbage, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice; toss to coat.
6. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable.
7. Assemble the tacos by placing pieces of catfish on each tortilla, topping with slaw and avocado slices. Serve immediately.

BBQ Catfish Sliders

BBQ catfish sliders are a delicious twist on traditional sliders, bringing together crispy catfish fillets and tangy BBQ sauce for a flavor-packed bite. These sliders are simple to make, making them perfect for casual gatherings or a fun family dinner.

With a crispy coating and a hint of smokiness from the BBQ, each slider is satisfying and full of flavor. Topped with crunchy slaw and served on fluffy buns, they create a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound catfish fillets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 4 slider buns
• 1 cup coleslaw mix
• Pickles (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Catfish: Soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove catfish from buttermilk and coat each fillet in the cornmeal mixture.
3. Fry the Catfish: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated catfish fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble the Sliders: Spread BBQ sauce on the bottom of each slider bun, place a fried catfish fillet, top with coleslaw, and add pickles if desired. Finish with the top bun.
5. Serve: Enjoy your BBQ catfish sliders while they’re warm, either as a main dish or as appetizers!

Catfish with Lemon Butter Sauce

This Catfish with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner. The catfish is pan-fried to a crispy finish, while the lemon butter sauce adds a refreshing and zesty kick. It’s simple to whip up and can impress your family or guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The bright, tangy sauce complements the mild flavor of the catfish, creating a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. Serve it with a side of greens or rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Catfish: In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge each catfish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Catfish: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add catfish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is combined.
4. Serve: Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked catfish and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Crispy Catfish Fritters with Dill Sauce

Crispy catfish fritters are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of catfish and the crunch of a perfectly fried exterior. With a hint of dill in the accompanying sauce, these fritters offer a refreshing bite that complements the savory fish. They’re simple to whip up, making them perfect for both casual gatherings and family dinners.

The fritters have a light, airy texture on the inside, while the outside is golden and crispy. Paired with a creamy dill sauce, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, allowing for versatility in your meal planning.

Ingredients

• 1 pound catfish fillets, chopped
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• Oil for frying
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped catfish until well coated.
2. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Fry the Fritters: Using a spoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, frying several fritters at a time. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Dill Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, dill, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
5. Serve: Plate the fritters and serve them warm with the dill sauce on the side for dipping.

Catfish and Grits

Catfish and grits is a delightful comfort food that brings together the flaky, mild flavor of catfish with the creamy richness of grits. This dish is a satisfying meal, perfect for any time of day. The catfish is typically seasoned and fried to a crispy finish, while the grits offer a smooth, buttery base that complements the fish beautifully.

This recipe is simple to make, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The combination of crispy catfish and savory grits creates a delicious harmony of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup grits
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Catfish: In a bowl, mix cornmeal, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each catfish fillet in buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
2. Fry the Catfish: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the catfish fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Stir in grits and reduce heat. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in butter and season with salt to taste.
4. Serve: Place a scoop of grits on a plate, top with a crispy catfish fillet, and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy!

Catfish Étouffée

Catfish étouffée is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the South right to your table. It combines tender catfish fillets with a rich, spicy sauce that’s perfect for serving over fluffy rice. The dish has a comforting warmth, with hints of Cajun spices that make every bite a treat.

This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginners. With just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fish or seafood stock
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Make the Roux: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a deep brown color, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Simmer: Gradually add the fish stock, stirring to combine. Add the Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Cook the Catfish: Add the catfish fillets to the skillet, cover, and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Spoon the catfish étouffée over cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy!

Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices

Blackened catfish is a flavorful dish that brings a taste of the South right to your dinner table. It features a spicy Cajun seasoning that gives the fish a crispy exterior while keeping it tender and juicy inside. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight cooking but delicious enough to impress guests at any gathering.

The blend of spices creates a smoky, rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw or cornbread. Even if you’re new to cooking fish, this dish will have you feeling like a pro in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Season the Fish: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each fillet.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.
4. Cook the Fish: Carefully place the seasoned catfish in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is blackened and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove from the skillet, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Final Thoughts
Catfish is one of those versatile ingredients that can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend feasts, or even impressing guests. With these 14 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy it—whether you’re in the mood for something crispy and comforting, saucy and bold, or just downright next-level delicious. So pick a recipe, get cooking, and discover why catfish deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Your taste buds will thank you!