There’s something about the sizzle of cast iron and the smell of smoky spices that always brings me back to summer weekends at my grandparents’ house. My granddad believed blackened catfish was the ultimate “just because” dinner, perfect for lazy Saturdays or when the whole family was in the mood for something bold. I still remember him fanning out a stack of fillets, seasoning them with a heavy hand, and grinning when the kitchen filled with those spicy, woodsy aromas. Blackened catfish recipes—especially the spicy and smoky kinds—never fail to transport me straight back to that sunny little kitchen.
1. Classic Spicy Blackened Catfish
Why You’ll Love It:
The beauty of this recipe is how quickly you can turn a simple catfish fillet into something loaded with flavor. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights and always earns high-fives from anyone who loves bold, Southern-seasoned fish. I reach for this one when I want big flavor with minimal fuss.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 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
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make It:
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Mix all spices and salt in a small bowl.
- Pat fillets dry and brush both sides with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture generously on both sides of each fillet.
- Add a splash more butter to the pan, then add fillets, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with rice, lemon wedges, and parsley.
Flavor Boost: Squeeze fresh lemon over each fillet as soon as they come off the pan for extra zing.
2. Cajun Blackened Catfish Tacos
Why You’ll Love It:
If you love taco night as much as we do, these are a must-try. Spicy, smoky fish tucked into warm tortillas and topped with crunchy slaw—perfect for family dinners where everyone builds their own plate. Kids especially love assembling their tacos.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 flour tortillas (small)
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges
How to Make It:
- Toss catfish fillets in Cajun seasoning.
- Heat oil in a nonstick pan on medium-high.
- Cook each fillet 3-4 minutes per side; slice into strips.
- Mix cabbage, carrots, mayo, lime juice, salt, and pepper for the slaw.
- Warm tortillas and fill with catfish, slaw, and cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges and extra sauce.
Serving Idea: Set out all the fix-ins taco bar style and let everyone build their own.
3. Blackened Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich
Why You’ll Love It:
This is true comfort food—crunchy, spicy catfish with tangy remoulade on fluffy French bread. Great for game days, picnics, or any night you want a hearty sandwich you can really sink your teeth into.
Serving size: Serves 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 large catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackening spice blend
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 French baguette, split
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 4 pickle slices
- ¼ cup remoulade sauce
- Salt to taste
How to Make It:
- Coat fillets in blackening spice.
- Melt butter in a skillet and cook catfish until blackened, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Toast the baguette.
- Layer lettuce, tomato, pickles, then catfish fillets in the baguette.
- Top with remoulade and slice in half.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook the fillets one at a time if necessary to get that crisp crust.
4. Smoky Chipotle Blackened Catfish
Why You’ll Love It:
Chipotle brings an extra layer of smoke and just enough heat to make this perfect for spice lovers. It’s a good “date night at home” dish when you want something a little special but don’t want to fuss.
Serving size: Serves 2
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 catfish fillets
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cilantro-lime rice, for serving
- Avocado, sliced
- Lime, halved
How to Make It:
- In a small bowl, mix chipotle, paprika, garlic, and salt.
- Pat fillets dry and rub spice mix evenly.
- Heat oil in skillet until shimmering.
- Sear fillets 4-5 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
- Serve atop rice with avocado and grilled lime.
Flavor Boost: Roast the lime halves briefly on the skillet for a caramelized, more complex citrus kick.
5. Creole Blackened Catfish with Tomato Rice
Why You’ll Love It:
Cooking for a crowd? This recipe, with its side of tomato rice, makes for a soulful one-pan family meal. Everyone always asks for seconds.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Rub fillets with Creole seasoning.
- Heat oil in large skillet, sear catfish 4 minutes per side, then set aside under foil.
- In same pan, add rice, stir for 2 minutes.
- Add broth, tomatoes, bell pepper. Simmer covered 20 minutes, until rice is tender.
- Fluff rice, top with catfish and green onion.
Meal Prep Tip: Make the tomato rice ahead; just rewarm and add fresh blackened catfish on serving day.
6. Blackened Catfish Bites with Spicy Remoulade
Why You’ll Love It:
Bite-size and finger-friendly, these are hit appetizers for game night or casual parties. The homemade remoulade gives each bite a zesty punch.
Serving size: Serves 6 (as an appetizer)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup remoulade sauce
- Lemon wedges
How to Make It:
- Toss catfish pieces in Cajun spice.
- Heat oil in large nonstick pan.
- Add catfish bites in a single layer; cook, turning, about 4 minutes per side.
- Serve with remoulade and lemon wedges.
Serving Idea: Offer these on a party platter with extra remoulade and crunchy celery sticks.
7. Southern Blackened Catfish and Grits
Why You’ll Love It:
There’s nothing like the creaminess of cheesy grits paired with spicy, smoky catfish. This is our rainy-Saturday breakfast or cozy brunch recipe, best enjoyed in pajamas.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackening spice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup quick grits
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 2 tablespoons brown butter
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Cook grits with milk, water, and salt, stirring 10 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar, cover and set aside.
- Pat catfish dry, coat with blackening spice.
- In skillet, heat butter, cook catfish 4 minutes per side.
- Serve fish over grits, top with brown butter and chives.
Flavor Boost: Add a spoonful of hot sauce to the grits for an extra southern kick.
8. Blackened Catfish Caesar Salad
Why You’ll Love It:
This is a lighter take that doesn’t sacrifice on bold flavors. The peppery fish pairs perfectly with crisp romaine and the creamy Caesar dressing. It makes lunch salads genuinely satisfying.
Serving size: Serves 2
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 catfish fillets
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups chopped romaine
- ½ cup croutons
- 2 tablespoons parmesan, grated
- ¼ cup Caesar dressing
- Lemon wedge
How to Make It:
- Rub catfish with blackened seasoning.
- Heat oil in skillet, sear fish 4 minutes per side.
- Slice fillets and arrange over prepared romaine tossed with dressing.
- Top with croutons, parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon.
Swap This With That: Swap Caesar for ranch or blue cheese if that’s more your style.
9. Blackened Catfish Alfredo Pasta
Why You’ll Love It:
Pasta lovers, rejoice—this pairs peppery catfish with creamy, garlicky Alfredo. It’s a weeknight stunner for when you want something fast but a little different.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 16 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Cook fettuccine in salted water, drain and set aside.
- Rub catfish with Cajun seasoning, sear in butter 4 minutes per side.
- Remove fish, add cream and garlic to pan, simmer 2 minutes.
- Stir in parmesan until thickened.
- Toss pasta with sauce, top with chunks of catfish and parsley.
Best Pairings: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, and roasted broccoli.
10. Grilled Blackened Catfish Platter
Why You’ll Love It:
Sometimes you just want to cook outdoors. This grill-friendly version is easy to double for backyard gatherings and gives you that smoky charred flavor with little mess.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 yellow squash, sliced
- 2 cups coleslaw
- Parsley for garnish
How to Make It:
- Coat catfish in oil and blackened seasoning.
- Grill fish over medium-high heat, 5-6 minutes per side.
- Grill zucchini and squash for 3 minutes per side.
- Serve all together on platter with coleslaw.
Meal Prep Tip: Marinate the veggies ahead of time in the fridge with olive oil and seasoning for faster grilling.
11. Blackened Catfish Burrito Bowls
Why You’ll Love It:
This is a weeknight hero—easy to customize, perfect for meal prep, and the leftover components make great next-day lunches. Every time I set out a “burrito bar,” everyone is happy.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackened or Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup fire-roasted corn
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
How to Make It:
- Season catfish, heat oil in skillet, cook fish 3-4 minutes per side, slice.
- Set out bowls and load with rice, beans, corn, catfish, salsa, and sour cream.
- Top with cilantro and serve.
Personal Note: My kids love choosing their own bowl toppings—it keeps even picky eaters happy.
12. Spicy Blackened Catfish Stir Fry
Why You’ll Love It:
Turn heat up a notch by stir-frying catfish with bold veggies and sriracha for a weekday dinner everyone remembers. Fast, filling, and great for cleaning out the fridge.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound catfish, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions
How to Make It:
- Toss catfish in seasoning.
- Heat oil in wok or large skillet. Add fish, quickly stir fry 4 minutes, remove.
- Add peppers and snap peas, stir fry 3-4 minutes.
- Return fish, add sriracha and soy, toss together.
- Serve over rice, top with sesame seeds and green onion.
Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lime just before serving for brightness.
13. Blackened Catfish Tortilla Soup
Why You’ll Love It:
On chilly nights, this soup is a soul-warming favorite. The smoky fish adds so much depth, and you can add all your favorite toppings.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or fish stock
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Tortilla strips
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Cilantro
How to Make It:
- Rub fish with seasoning, sear in oil, 3-4 minutes per side, set aside and flake.
- In same pot, add onion and garlic, cook 3 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, stock, corn, cumin, chili, simmer 20 minutes.
- Stir in flaked catfish.
- Serve in bowls with tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro.
Serving Idea: Lay out bowls of toppings for people to customize each soup serving.
14. Spicy Blackened Catfish Wraps
Why You’ll Love It:
Great for quick lunches or dinner on the go, these wraps tuck flaky, spicy fish into a soft tortilla with crisp veggies and tangy sauce.
Serving size: Serves 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 catfish fillets
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large tortillas
- 1 cup mixed salad greens
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup ranch or spicy mayo
How to Make It:
- Rub catfish with seasoning and cook in oil in skillet, 4 minutes per side.
- Slice fish, layer on tortillas with greens, carrots, and sauce.
- Roll, slice, and serve.
Budget-Friendly Tip: Use any sturdy greens or leftover salad mix to fill the wraps.
15. Oven-Baked Blackened Catfish
Why You’ll Love It:
If you want a hands-off, healthier method, this oven-baked approach delivers a smoky crust without a stovetop mess. It’s reliable and kids eat it up.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 3 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon slices
- Fresh dill
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Pat fillets dry, brush with oil.
- Coat both sides thoroughly in seasoning.
- Arrange on lined baking sheet.
- Bake 16-18 minutes, garnish and serve.
Meal Prep Tip: This fillet is great for storing—leftovers keep well and are easy to reheat.
16. Blackened Catfish Street Tostadas
Why You’ll Love It:
These crispy tostadas piled high with spicy fish and fresh toppings always remind me of summer block parties. It’s casual, interactive food at its best.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 18 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 corn tostadas
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- ¼ cup cilantro
- Lime wedges
How to Make It:
- Cut catfish into chunks, toss in seasoning.
- Heat oil, cook fish 5-6 minutes, turning for even blackening.
- Pile fish on tostadas, top with lettuce, tomato, Cotija, and cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges.
Best Pairings: Try with street corn salad and watermelon for a summery meal.
17. Air Fryer Blackened Catfish Nuggets
Why You’ll Love It:
If you love your air fryer, this recipe turns catfish into crispy, perfectly spiced nuggets—amazing for kids or snacking adults, and way less oil needed.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 24 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound catfish, cut into 1-inch nuggets
- 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Dipping sauce of choice
- Lemon wedges
How to Make It:
- Toss nuggets with oil and seasoning.
- Arrange in single layer in air fryer basket.
- Cook at 380°F for 12 minutes, shaking basket halfway.
- Serve hot with sauce and lemon.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed for crispy texture.
18. Blackened Catfish Dirty Rice Skillet
Why You’ll Love It:
This one-pot meal is full of flavor and perfect for when you want an easy but super satisfying dinner. Smoky fish meets savory dirty rice for maximum Southern comfort.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackening spice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ pound andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
How to Make It:
- Season catfish with spice. Heat oil, sear fish 4 minutes per side; set aside.
- In same skillet, cook sausage, bell pepper, celery, onion until soft.
- Stir in garlic, then add rice and mix well.
- Nestle catfish back into rice, cook 2 more mins to heat.
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve.
Swap This With That: Substitute smoked turkey sausage if you prefer less fat.
FAQ
How do you get that perfect crust when blackening catfish?
Start with high heat and a very hot cast iron or heavy skillet. Make sure the fish is dry and coated thoroughly with both fat (like butter or oil) and your spice blend. Don’t move the fish until the crust forms, then flip just once.
Can I use frozen catfish fillets for blackened recipes?
Yes, but always thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning. Extra moisture will prevent a good sear and crust.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
A heavy stainless steel skillet works, or even a good nonstick pan. For smoky flavor, just be sure the pan can take high heat.
Are these blackened catfish recipes spicy?
Most are moderately spicy, but you can easily adjust the amount of cayenne, chipotle, or hot sauce to dial the heat up or down for your taste.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite as rewarding as serving up a platter of spicy, smoky blackened catfish—whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner or bringing everyone together for a special meal. These 15+ blackened catfish recipes are proof that with just a few pantry spices and a good skillet (or even the oven or air fryer), you can create bold, memorable dishes any night of the week. Don’t be afraid to experiment—swap out sides, try different spice blends, or pile your catfish on salads, rice, or tacos. Most of all, cook with confidence and trust your taste buds; the best meals are those shared with people you love over stories, laughter, and just a little bit of spice.
