Fried Catfish Recipe
Southern style catfish fried to a golden brown.
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.
Fish Preparation
Breading Mixture
Frying
Method
Fish Preparation
- 1
Marinate the Fish
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the catfish fillets to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
Breading Mixture
- 2
Prepare the Breading
In a separate large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Frying
- 3
Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy skillet or deep frying pan, pour in the vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 4
Bread the Catfish
Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the breading mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres.
- 5
Fry the Catfish
Carefully place the breaded catfish fillets in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the catfish and drain on paper towels.
- 6
Serve
Serve the fried catfish hot with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, fries, or hushpuppies.