Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLil RaysCatfish Recipe

Catfish Recipe

Inspired by Lil Rays
Time1h
Serves4

Mississippi Farm Raised Fried Crispy

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Main Ingredients

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Soak the Catfish

    In a bowl, pour buttermilk over the catfish fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Coating

    In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

Frying

  1. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature for best results.

  2. 4

    Coat the Catfish

    Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each fillet in the flour-cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.

  3. 5

    Fry the Catfish

    Carefully place the coated catfish fillets in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

  4. 6

    Drain and Serve

    Once cooked, remove the catfish from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

More from Lil Rays