14+ Oven-Baked Catfish Recipes Tender And Flaky

There’s something about the smell of cornmeal-crusted catfish baking in the oven that brings me right back to the weekends I spent with my uncle by the lakeside. He never claimed to be a chef, but somehow, the baked catfish he’d pull from the oven always came out flaky, tender, and just the right amount of crispy on top. These days, whenever I’m looking for a dependable weeknight dinner or a dish that feels special but doesn’t demand hours, I turn to oven-baked catfish recipes tender and flaky enough to rival any fried version. Nothing beats gathering around the table with a big baking dish at the center, warm catfish fillets laid out, sides scooped alongside—and everyone reaching for just one more forkful.

1. Classic Southern Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

This one tastes like comfort and home all in one bite. It’s the perfect family dinner for busy weeknights when everyone’s craving something hearty but you don’t want deep frying mess. Even picky eaters go for seconds.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Cooking spray
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
2. Mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a shallow dish.
3. Pour buttermilk into another shallow bowl.
4. Dip each catfish fillet in buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing to coat.
5. Arrange fillets on the baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray.
6. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Optional Enhancers (choose 2):

Flavor Boost: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over just after baking for a pop of brightness.

Serving Idea: Pairs perfectly with coleslaw and baked sweet potato fries.

2. Lemon Herb Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Light and fresh, this recipe is made for those spring nights when you want something zesty and not too heavy. The herbs bring out the natural flavor of the fish, and it’s easy enough for a quick dinner.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly oil a baking sheet.
2. Place catfish fillets on the sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush mixture over the fillets.
5. Top with lemon slices.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.

Optional Enhancers (choose 2):

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat.

Best Pairings: Try with herbed rice and steamed green beans.

3. Parmesan-Crusted Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

If you love crispy, golden-topped casseroles, this recipe is a winner. The cheesy breadcrumb coating turns molten in the oven and forms the most satisfying crust. Kids love it, and it’s always a hit at potlucks.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make It:

1. Heat oven to 400°F and grease a large baking sheet.
2. Combine Parmesan, panko, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
3. Dip catfish in beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
5. Bake 22–25 minutes until crisp and golden on top.

Flavor Boost: Mix a pinch of smoked paprika into the crumbs for a subtle smoky note.

Meal Prep Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in a toaster oven for crunch.

4. Creole Spiced Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Here’s a little heat for your weeknight. The Creole spices add a big burst of flavor without making the fish messy or greasy. Perfect when you crave something bold with minimal fuss.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 green onion, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Brush fillets with olive oil.
3. Mix Creole seasoning, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Rub spice mix all over the fillets.
5. Place on baking sheet and bake for 22 minutes.
6. Scatter green onions on just before serving.

Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lime just before serving for tang.

Best Pairings: Serve with dirty rice and sautéed okra.

5. Oven-Baked Catfish Nuggets

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the recipe to make when you’re feeding kids or want finger food for a movie night. Bite-sized, crunchy, and just right for dipping, these nuggets disappear fast.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 33 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Cooking spray

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Dip catfish pieces in egg, then dredge in cornmeal mixture.
4. Arrange on baking sheet; spray with cooking spray.
5. Bake 16–18 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden.

Flavor Boost: Try dipping them in spicy remoulade or ranch.

Personal Note: My kids call these “catfish popcorn” and ask for them at every birthday.

6. Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Garlic butter makes just about everything better, and catfish is no exception. This is an easy main that tastes like it took more effort than it did—great for casual guests or special nights in.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges for serving

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange catfish fillets in a baking dish.
3. Mix melted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon garlic butter mixture over fillets.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until tender.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon.

Serving Idea: Serve over cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes.

Meal Prep Tip: Leftovers are delicious in a sandwich the next day.

7. Pecan-Crusted Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

The nutty, toasty flavor of pecans turns this into a showpiece for date nights or Sunday suppers. It’s a bit fancier, but super simple—just right for impressing without stress.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 37 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Mix pecans, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Combine mustard, mayo, and olive oil in another bowl.
4. Brush fillets with mustard mixture, then press pecan mixture on top.
5. Bake for 22 minutes until topping is brown and fish flakes easily.

Flavor Boost: Add a dash of cayenne to the pecan mixture for heat.

Best Pairings: Serve with wild rice pilaf and roasted carrots.

8. Mediterranean-Style Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Bright, briny, and loaded with veggies, this is a lighter take suited for anyone craving a coastal vibe. Perfect for summer meals or when you want something colorful.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pitted black olives, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

How to Make It:

1. Heat oven to 400°F.
2. Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
3. Nestle fillets, tomatoes, olives, and onions together.
4. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 23–25 minutes.
6. Top with feta and parsley before serving.

Swap This With That: Kalamata olives work well if you don’t have black.

Best Pairings: Couscous and simple cucumber salad.

9. Crispy Cajun Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

Cajun spices bring excitement, and the crunchy coating makes this a favorite for both fish fans and skeptics. It’s great for feeding a crowd and holds up well to dipping and sauces.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 37 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a sheet pan with parchment.
2. Whisk milk and egg in a shallow bowl.
3. In another bowl, combine panko, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
4. Dip fillets in milk mixture, then press into breadcrumb mix.
5. Arrange on pan and spray well with cooking spray.
6. Bake for 20–22 minutes until crisp and cooked through.

Flavor Boost: Add cayenne to the breadcrumb mix for extra heat.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overbake—the fish dries out quickly past 22 minutes.

10. Oven-Baked Catfish with Roasted Veggies

Why You’ll Love It:

Everything cooks on one tray so you can put your feet up while dinner happens. It’s a full meal with minimal effort and even less cleanup.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 cups baby potatoes, quartered
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Toss potatoes, broccoli, and pepper with 2 tablespoons olive oil, half the herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread veggies on a sheet pan and roast for 10 minutes.
4. Brush catfish with remaining olive oil and season with remaining herbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Add catfish to tray after 10 minutes, and continue roasting for 15 minutes more.

Meal Prep Tip: Package leftovers in containers for easy lunches.

Serving Idea: Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added depth.

11. Honey Mustard Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

The sweet and tangy sauce makes this one kid-friendly and a sure hit at the table. It’s one of those “can I have the recipe?” kind of dishes that never fails to please.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Stir mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
3. Place catfish in a baking dish and brush with the honey mustard mixture.
4. Bake for 18–20 minutes until the glaze is glossy and fish is cooked through.

Serving Idea: Excellent over a bed of steamed rice with green peas.

Flavor Boost: Sprinkle a little cracked black pepper on just before serving.

12. Sheet Pan BBQ Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

When you’re craving barbecue but don’t want to light up the grill, this sticky BBQ-glazed catfish hits the spot. It’s a hands-off dinner that makes the whole house smell amazing.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1/2 cup smoky barbecue sauce
• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan with foil.
2. Arrange onion wedges and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Place catfish on pan and brush all over with BBQ sauce.
4. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and garlic powder.
5. Bake 20–22 minutes, until onions are charred and fish flakes.

Serving Idea: Serve inside warm sandwich rolls for BBQ catfish sandwiches.

Best Pairings: Coleslaw and pickles on the side.

13. Oven-Baked Catfish Piccata

Why You’ll Love It:

This Italian-American riff layers in lemon and capers for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy meal—without needing a stovetop pan. Makes an ordinary weeknight feel like a special occasion.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix butter, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl.
3. Place fillets in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour butter mixture over top.
5. Scatter capers and arrange lemon slices over fish.
6. Bake 18–20 minutes until fish is flaking.
7. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Swap This With That: Try lime instead of lemon for a citrusy twist.

Best Pairings: Angel hair pasta and garlic bread.

14. Oven-Baked Catfish Veracruz

Why You’ll Love It:

Inspired by classic Latin flavors, this version has a mild tomato sauce with olives and peppers—so fragrant and filling you’ll want seconds. It feels special enough for guests but is simple enough to prep on a whim.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced green olives
• 1/4 cup chopped white onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper until soft.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and olives. Simmer 5 minutes.
4. Place catfish fillets in a baking dish, top with tomato mixture.
5. Bake 25 minutes until flaky.
6. Sprinkle with cilantro to serve.

Swap This With That: Substitute black olives for green if you prefer.

Serving Idea: Perfect over cooked white rice.

15. Coconut-Curry Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

This one is for fans of gentle heat and fragrant sauces. Coconut milk and mild curry spices make it warming and a little bit exotic, yet it’s still an easy one-dish solution.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 28 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Whisk coconut milk, curry powder, ginger, garlic, and salt in a bowl.
3. Pour into a baking dish, add fillets, and spoon sauce over top.
4. Bake 28 minutes until tender.
5. Drizzle with lime juice and top with cilantro to serve.

Meal Prep Tip: The sauce makes an excellent curry base for leftover veggies.

Best Pairings: Jasmine rice and sautéed snap peas.

16. Oven-Baked Catfish Tacos

Why You’ll Love It:

Flaky catfish makes a great taco filling, and baking instead of frying keeps things simple and lighter. Spread out your favorite toppings and watch everyone build their own.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 18 minutes

Cook Time: 16 minutes

Total Time: 34 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 avocado, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Rub catfish with olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 16 minutes on a lined sheet pan.
4. Meanwhile, mix cabbage, yogurt, and lime juice for slaw.
5. Warm tortillas, flake baked fish, and assemble with slaw and avocado.

Serving Idea: Let everyone add their own favorite taco toppings like salsa or jalapeños.

Meal Prep Tip: Catfish can be cooked ahead and reheated quickly before assembling.

17. Ranch-Seasoned Oven-Baked Catfish

Why You’ll Love It:

This is a back-pocket recipe for anyone who keeps ranch seasoning on hand. Savory, tangy, and kid-approved—you’ll definitely want seconds, and clean-up is a breeze.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 26 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Brush fillets with olive oil and sprinkle all over with ranch seasoning, garlic, paprika, and pepper.
3. Arrange on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 17–18 minutes until flaky and just cooked through.

Serving Idea: Great as a filling for wraps or sandwiches the next day.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use homemade ranch seasoning for savings.

FAQ

What’s the secret to getting oven-baked catfish tender and flaky?

Start with fresh catfish fillets, avoid overcrowding the pan, and don’t overbake. Most recipes are best cooked just until the fish flakes easily with a fork—about 18–25 minutes, depending on thickness.

Can I use frozen catfish fillets for oven-baking?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before breading or seasoning. Extra moisture can prevent a crispy crust.

How do I keep the crust crisp without deep frying?

A light coating of oil or a good spritz of cooking spray helps the crust brown and crisp in the oven. High heat (400–425°F) also helps create a sturdy, golden coating.

What sides go well with oven-baked catfish?

Classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, rice, and sautéed greens are favorites, but you can also serve with roasted veggies, simple salads, or mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Pulling a tray of golden, flaky catfish out of the oven is always comforting. Oven-baked catfish recipes tender and flaky bring that soulful, home-cooked flavor everyone craves—without the fuss or splatter of frying. Whether you keep it classic Southern or try a zesty lemon-herb version, these recipes make catfish fit any mood or moment, from family weeknights to relaxed weekends with friends. Trust your instincts as you season and serve; oven-baked catfish is wonderfully forgiving and rewards a little experimentation. Grab your fillets and a hot oven, and let the flavors—and memories—begin.