16 Best Southern Catfish Recipe Taste The Magic Today!
Published on: Mar 11, 2024
Southern cuisine is known for its bold and flavorful dishes, and there's no dish more iconic than a perfectly fried catfish. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this best southern catfish recipe will have you cooking up a storm in no time. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you'll be able to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Nothing says Southern comfort food like a plate of crispy, golden fried catfish. This classic dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason. The tender, flaky fish is paired with a crunchy coating and served with traditional sides like collard greens and mac and cheese. While there are many variations of this dish, here are 20 of the best Southern fried catfish recipes to try at home.
2of 40
Southern Catfish Tacos + Pickled Okra
Main Ingredients: Okra, Cider Vinegar, Water, Kosher Salt, Pickling
For a fun twist on traditional fried catfish, try these Southern catfish tacos. The catfish is coated in a blend of spices and fried to perfection, then served in warm tortillas with a fresh and tangy pickled okra topping. This recipe combines the flavors of the South with a Mexican twist for a delicious and unique dish.
3of 40
Spicy Southern Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Self Rising Flour, Yellow Cornmeal, Hot Sauce
If you like a little heat in your food, this spicy fried catfish recipe is for you. The catfish is coated in a spicy seasoning mix and fried until crispy. Serve it with a side of creamy coleslaw to balance out the heat. This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for spicy Southern cuisine.
4of 40
Fried Catfish…Yummy Yums
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Milk, Hot Sauce, Cornmeal, Flour, Salt, Black
For a simple and delicious fried catfish recipe, look no further than this one. The catfish is coated in a blend of cornmeal and flour, giving it a crispy and flavorful coating. Serve it with classic Southern sides like hush puppies and fried green tomatoes for a complete meal.
5of 40
Southern-style Catfish With Dirty Rice
Main Ingredients: Cornmeal, Salt, Red Bell Pepper, Sliced, Catfish
Dirty rice is a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with fried catfish. In this recipe, the catfish is pan-fried and served with a flavorful dirty rice made with ground beef, vegetables, and spices. This dish is hearty, comforting, and full of Southern flavor.
6of 40
Restaurant-Quality Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Vegetable, Cornmeal, Buttermilk, Cayenne
If you want to recreate the taste of restaurant-quality fried catfish at home, this recipe is a must-try. The catfish is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until golden and crispy. Serve it with a side of homemade tartar sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
7of 40
Creole Catfish with Maque Choux
Main Ingredients: Neutral Cooking Oil, Catfish, Melted Butter, Creole
This Creole-style catfish dish is bursting with flavor. The catfish is coated in a blend of Creole spices and served with a side of Maque Choux, a traditional Southern dish made with corn, peppers, and onions. This dish is a perfect representation of the bold and flavorful cuisine of Louisiana.
8of 40
Air Fried Catfish Nuggets With Greek Yogurt Remoulade
Main Ingredients: Water, Kosher Salt, Catfish, Pecans, Flour, Cajun
If you're looking for a healthier version of fried catfish, try this air fried catfish nuggets recipe. The catfish is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and air fried to crispy perfection. Serve it with a tangy and creamy Greek yogurt remoulade for a guilt-free and delicious meal.
9of 40
Southern-Style Oven-Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Catfish Fillets, Cornmeal, Creole
If you want the taste of fried catfish without all the oil and mess, this oven-fried catfish recipe is a great option. The catfish is coated in a blend of cornmeal and spices and baked in the oven until crispy. It's a healthier alternative to traditional fried catfish, but still just as tasty.
10of 40
Cajun Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish Fillets, Buttermilk, Vegetable Oil, Cornmeal
Cajun cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, and this Cajun fried catfish is no exception. The catfish is coated in a blend of Cajun spices and fried until golden and crispy. Serve it with a side of creamy Cajun-style corn for a delicious and authentic taste of the South.
For a classic and no-fail fried catfish recipe, try this one. The catfish is coated in a simple mixture of flour and spices and fried until crispy and golden. Serve it with a side of homemade hush puppies and your favorite Southern sides for a true taste of the South.
This Southern-fried catfish recipe is perfect for those who prefer a thinner and crispier coating on their catfish. The catfish is coated in a blend of flour and spices, then fried until the coating is extra crispy. Serve it with a side of homemade tartar sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
13of 40
B.B. King's Blues Club Southern-Style Catfish
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Catfish Fillets, Egg, Milk, Cornmeal, All
This recipe is inspired by the famous B.B. King's Blues Club in Memphis, Tennessee. The catfish is coated in a blend of spices and fried until crispy, then served with a tangy and flavorful lemon butter sauce. This dish is a true taste of Southern hospitality and is sure to impress your dinner guests.
14of 40
Pecan-Crusted Catfish with White Cheddar Grits
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Onion Powder, Salt, Eggs, Milk
This elegant and flavorful catfish dish is perfect for a special occasion. The catfish is coated in a crunchy pecan crust, then pan-fried and served with creamy white cheddar grits. The combination of the crunchy coating and creamy grits is a match made in Southern food heaven.
If you're feeling adventurous, try this recipe for Southern fried whole catfish. The whole catfish is coated in a blend of spices and fried until crispy and golden. Serve it with classic Southern sides like collard greens and fried okra for a traditional and satisfying meal.
16of 40
Deep Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Lemon
This deep-fried catfish recipe is perfect for those who love a thick and crunchy coating on their catfish. The catfish is coated in a blend of cornmeal and flour, then deep-fried until golden and crispy. Serve it with a side of homemade tartar sauce for a delicious and indulgent meal.
17of 40
Fried Catfish With Tartar Sauce
Main Ingredients: Sweet Pickle Relish, Yellow Onion, Lemon Juice, Kosher
No Southern fried catfish meal is complete without homemade tartar sauce. This recipe for fried catfish with tartar sauce is a must-try. The catfish is coated in a blend of flour and spices, then fried until crispy and served with a tangy and creamy homemade tartar sauce.
18of 40
Cornmeal Catfish with Green Goddess Dressing
Main Ingredients: Buttermilk, Dill Pickle Juice, Crystal Hot Sauce
This cornmeal catfish recipe is a lighter and healthier alternative to traditional fried catfish. The catfish is coated in a blend of cornmeal and spices, then pan-fried until crispy. Serve it with a fresh and flavorful green goddess dressing for a delicious and guilt-free meal.
This classic and simple Southern fried catfish recipe is perfect for those who prefer a thinner coating on their catfish. The catfish is coated in a blend of flour and spices, then fried until golden and crispy. Serve it with traditional Southern sides like collard greens and mac and cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
20of 40
Southern-Style Corn Meal Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Crisco Pure Vegetable Oil, Catfish Fillets, White Lily R
This recipe for Southern-style corn meal fried catfish is a twist on the classic dish. The catfish is coated in a blend of cornmeal and spices, then fried until crispy and golden. Serve it with a side of homemade tartar sauce for a delicious and traditional Southern meal.
Get ready to experience the deliciousness of Southern cuisine with this mouth-watering Southern Fried Catfish recipe. The crispy, golden crust of the fried catfish paired with the tender and flaky meat inside will leave you wanting more. This is a classic Southern dish that is perfect for family gatherings or a weekend dinner. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
22of 40
Southern Catfish Tacos + Pickled Okra
Main Ingredients: Okra, Cider Vinegar, Water, Kosher Salt, Pickling
Take your taco game to the next level with these Southern Catfish Tacos. The combination of the crispy fried catfish, tangy pickled okra, and creamy avocado sauce is a flavor explosion in your mouth. This is a perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a fun night in with friends. And the best part? It’s quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy these delicious tacos anytime.
23of 40
Spicy Southern Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Self Rising Flour, Yellow Cornmeal, Hot Sauce
If you’re a fan of spicy food, then you’re going to love this Spicy Southern Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a flavorful blend of spices and then fried to perfection, giving it a nice kick of heat. This dish is perfect for those who like their food with a little extra heat and a whole lot of flavor. Serve it with some coleslaw and hush puppies for the ultimate Southern meal.
24of 40
Fried Catfish…Yummy Yums
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Milk, Hot Sauce, Cornmeal, Flour, Salt, Black
This Fried Catfish recipe is a crowd-pleaser for sure. The catfish is coated in a crispy cornmeal crust and fried to perfection. This dish is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Serve it with some tartar sauce and lemon wedges for a classic and delicious Southern meal.
25of 40
Restaurant-Quality Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Vegetable, Cornmeal, Buttermilk, Cayenne
Why go out to a fancy restaurant when you can make restaurant-quality fried catfish at home? This recipe will give you perfectly crispy and flavorful catfish, just like you would find in a restaurant. The secret to this recipe is the seasoned cornmeal coating, which adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Serve it with some fries and coleslaw for the ultimate restaurant-style meal at home.
26of 40
Creole Catfish with Maque Choux
Main Ingredients: Neutral Cooking Oil, Catfish, Melted Butter, Creole
Get a taste of Louisiana with this Creole Catfish with Maque Choux recipe. The catfish is coated in a spicy Creole seasoning and then pan-fried to perfection. It’s then served on top of a bed of Maque Choux, a traditional Cajun dish made with corn, bell peppers, and onions. This dish is a perfect blend of Southern and Creole flavors, making it a must-try for any food lover.
27of 40
Southern-style Catfish With Dirty Rice
Main Ingredients: Cornmeal, Salt, Red Bell Pepper, Sliced, Catfish
This Southern-style Catfish with Dirty Rice recipe is a true comfort food. The catfish is coated in a flavorful spice mix and then pan-fried to crispy perfection. It’s then served with a side of dirty rice, a delicious and hearty rice dish made with sausage, peppers, and spices. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting family dinner.
28of 40
Air Fried Catfish Nuggets With Greek Yogurt Remoulade
Main Ingredients: Water, Kosher Salt, Catfish, Pecans, Flour, Cajun
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fried catfish, then you have to try these Air Fried Catfish Nuggets with Greek Yogurt Remoulade. These bite-sized nuggets are coated in a crispy cornmeal and panko crust and then air-fried to perfection. The Greek yogurt remoulade is a healthier and lighter version of the classic Cajun sauce, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.
29of 40
Cajun Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish Fillets, Buttermilk, Vegetable Oil, Cornmeal
Bring a taste of the bayou to your kitchen with this Cajun Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a traditional Cajun seasoning and then fried to a crispy golden brown. This dish is perfect for those who love bold and spicy flavors. Serve it with some Cajun rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
30of 40
Southern-Style Oven-Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Catfish Fillets, Cornmeal, Creole
Craving fried catfish but don’t want to deal with the mess of frying? Try this Southern-Style Oven-Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture and then baked in the oven, giving it the same crispy texture as traditional fried catfish. This dish is a healthier and easier alternative for those busy weeknights.
This Crispy Southern Fried Catfish recipe is a Southern classic that never disappoints. The catfish is coated in a flavorful blend of spices and then fried to a crispy golden brown. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Serve it with some creamy coleslaw and a side of hush puppies for a true Southern experience.
If you’re a fan of classic Southern dishes, then you have to try this Crispy Southern-Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a blend of spices and then fried to a crispy perfection. It’s a simple and delicious dish that will satisfy all your comfort food cravings. Serve it with some mac and cheese for the ultimate Southern meal.
33of 40
B.B. King's Blues Club Southern-Style Catfish
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Catfish Fillets, Egg, Milk, Cornmeal, All
Experience the taste of the South with this B.B. King's Blues Club Southern-Style Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a special blend of Cajun spices and then pan-fried to perfection. It’s then served with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce, making it a perfect pairing with the spicy catfish. This dish is a must-try for any music and food lover.
34of 40
Pecan-Crusted Catfish with White Cheddar Grits
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Onion Powder, Salt, Eggs, Milk
Elevate your dinner game with this Pecan-Crusted Catfish with White Cheddar Grits recipe. The catfish is coated in a flavorful pecan crust and then pan-fried to perfection. It’s then served on top of a bed of creamy and cheesy grits, adding a delicious twist to the classic Southern dish. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner at home.
If you want to impress your guests with a stunning and delicious dish, then this Southern Fried Whole Catfish recipe is for you. The whole catfish is coated in a flavorful cornmeal mixture and then deep-fried to perfection. It’s a show-stopping dish that will surely impress everyone at the dinner table. Serve it with some hush puppies and coleslaw for a true Southern meal.
36of 40
Deep Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Lemon
Take your love for fried catfish to the next level with this Deep Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then deep-fried to a crispy golden brown. This dish is perfect for a game day snack or a fun appetizer for a party. Serve it with some spicy remoulade sauce for a kick of flavor.
37of 40
Fried Catfish With Tartar Sauce
Main Ingredients: Sweet Pickle Relish, Yellow Onion, Lemon Juice, Kosher
Enjoy a classic Southern meal with this Fried Catfish with Tartar Sauce recipe. The catfish is coated in a flavorful cornmeal mixture and then pan-fried to a crispy texture. It’s then served with a tangy and creamy tartar sauce, adding the perfect balance to the dish. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of crispy and creamy flavors.
38of 40
Southern-Style Corn Meal Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Crisco Pure Vegetable Oil, Catfish Fillets, White Lily R
Get a taste of the South with this Southern-Style Corn Meal Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture and then fried to a crispy perfection. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends. Serve it with some fries and coleslaw for a classic Southern meal.
It wouldn’t be a true list of Southern Fried Catfish recipes without a classic Southern Fried Catfish recipe. The catfish is coated in a flavorful flour and cornmeal mixture and then fried to a crispy golden brown. This dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with some lemon wedges and hot sauce for a burst of flavor.
40of 40
Grace Meat & Three's Fried Catfish Nuggets
Main Ingredients: Busch Beer, Garlic Powder, Freshly Ground Black Pepper
If you’re looking for a fun and tasty twist on traditional fried catfish, then these Grace Meat & Three's Fried Catfish Nuggets are a must-try. The catfish is cut into bite-sized pieces, coated in a flavorful cornmeal crust, and then fried to perfection. These nuggets are perfect for a party appetizer or a fun snack for the whole family. Serve them with some ranch or tartar sauce for dipping.
The Perfect Blend of Seasonings
When it comes to making the best southern catfish, the key is in the seasoning. A blend of classic southern spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder will give your catfish the perfect amount of heat and flavor. For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the mix. The combination of these spices will give your catfish a delicious and unique flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Coating the Catfish
Once you have your seasoning mix ready, it's time to coat your catfish. You can use either a traditional cornmeal or flour coating, but for an extra crispy texture, try a mixture of both. To ensure that your breading sticks to the fish, pat the catfish fillets dry with a paper towel before dipping them in the coating. This will also prevent the oil from splattering when you fry the catfish.
Perfectly Fried Catfish
Frying the catfish is the final step in creating the best southern catfish. It's important to use a deep fryer or a deep pan filled with enough oil to fully submerge the fish. The ideal temperature for frying catfish is between 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit. If the oil is not hot enough, the catfish will become greasy and soggy. Fry the catfish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it turns a beautiful golden brown color. Once it's done, place the catfish on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your catfish is cooked to perfection, it's time to plate it up and serve it with some classic southern sides. Hushpuppies, collard greens, and mac and cheese are all delicious accompaniments to this dish. For a truly authentic southern experience, serve your catfish with a side of homemade tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and hot sauce.
In conclusion, this best southern catfish recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add some southern flair to their dinner table. With the perfect blend of seasonings, a crispy coating, and a perfectly fried texture, this dish will have you feeling like a true southern chef. So grab your apron and get cooking, because this catfish recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
![Fried Blackened Catfish Tacos with Lane's Corn Salsa [Video] | Recipe ...](https://i.pinimg.com/736x/dc/c9/b4/dcc9b4dc468ea7c34f45c3241ba8d78f.jpg)
![How To Make Fish Batter With Cornmeal! [Tasty Bite]](https://www.fryerly.com/storage/2017/05/how-to-make-fish-batter.jpg)
