Jul 14 2026

Crispy Catfish Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

served with waffle fries

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.

Crispy Catfish

Method

Crispy Catfish

  1. 1

    Prepare the Catfish

    In a large bowl, soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.

  2. 2

    Mix the Coating

    In a separate bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of spices.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan or large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles immediately, it's ready.

  4. 4

    Coat the Catfish

    Remove the catfish from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

  5. 5

    Fry the Catfish

    Carefully place the coated catfish fillets in the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Waffle Fries

  1. 6

    Prepare the Potatoes

    Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Using a waffle cutter, cut the potatoes into waffle-shaped fries.

  2. 7

    Heat the Oil for Frying

    In a separate pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  3. 8

    Fry the Waffle Fries

    Carefully add the waffle fries to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 4-6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  4. 9

    Season the Fries

    While still hot, sprinkle the waffle fries with salt to taste.

More from Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Burbank Restaurant