5 Delicious Baked Catfish Recipes You Must Try

In the world of culinary delights, baked catfish stands out for its delicious flavor and the simplicity of preparation. Catfish, known for its mild taste and versatility, can be transformed into a gourmet meal with the right combination of ingredients and techniques. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to explore new recipes, these five delectable baked catfish recipes are guaranteed to impress your taste buds and add a new favorite to your dinner rotation.

The Ultimate Lemon Herb Baked Catfish

Lemon and herbs are a match made in heaven, and when paired with catfish, they elevate this simple dish to a level of sophisticated delight. This recipe not only enhances the natural flavors of the catfish but also adds a fresh, zesty note.

• Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Thin lemon slices for garnish
• Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine lemon zest, juice, parsley, thyme, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl.
3. Season catfish fillets with salt and pepper, then coat them with the herb mixture.
4. Place the fillets on a baking dish, top each with a slice of lemon.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with additional herbs and lemon slices before serving.

🍋 Note: If you like a stronger lemon flavor, you can add a bit more lemon juice or zest.

Cajun Spice and Brown Butter Catfish

For those who enjoy a little kick in their meal, this Cajun-inspired catfish dish brings warmth and depth with its rich flavors.

• Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt to taste
• Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with Cajun spice and salt.
3. In an oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it turns brown and nutty.
4. Place catfish fillets in the skillet, coat with brown butter, and top each with a lemon slice.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.

🌶️ Note: Adjust the Cajun spice to your heat preference.

Parmesan Crusted Catfish

This recipe transforms catfish into a crispy, cheesy delight, perfect for those who love a good crunch with their seafood.

• Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¹⁄₂ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ¹⁄₂ cup mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on each fillet, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
4. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden and fish is cooked.
6. Serve with lemon wedges.

Baked Catfish with Mediterranean Salsa

Bringing the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table, this recipe includes a colorful salsa that complements the catfish beautifully.

• Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 tomato, diced
• ¹⁄₄ red onion, finely chopped
• ¹⁄₄ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
• 1 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place fillets in a baking dish and bake for about 18 minutes.
4. While the fish is baking, prepare the salsa by mixing the tomato, onion, olives, capers, basil, oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Once the fish is done, top each fillet with a generous spoonful of Mediterranean salsa.

Sweet and Spicy Baked Catfish with Honey Glaze

Balancing sweetness with a hint of spice, this recipe gives catfish an exciting twist that’s sure to please those with adventurous palates.

• Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
• Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, ginger, and garlic to make a glaze.
3. Season catfish fillets with salt and pepper, then brush the glaze over them.
4. Place fillets in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

To wrap up our exploration of baked catfish recipes, each method provides a unique way to savor this versatile fish. From the zesty lemon herb flavors to the bold Cajun spices, from the comforting parmesan crust to the fresh Mediterranean salsa, and finally to the sweet and spicy glaze, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking to impress guests or just enhance your weeknight dinner, these recipes offer both simplicity in preparation and complexity in flavor. These dishes not only showcase the catfish's delicate taste but also transform it into a centerpiece of any meal with the addition of various herbs, spices, and accompaniments. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and perhaps find your new favorite way to bake catfish!

How can I tell when my catfish is perfectly cooked?

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The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque white all the way through, with an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen catfish fillets for these recipes?

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Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before preparing the dish.

What side dishes go well with baked catfish?

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Complement your catfish with sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.