Crispy Southern Catfish Recipe is a must-try dish!
Bring a taste of the South to your table with this Crispy Southern Fried Catfish! Perfectly seasoned with a golden cornmeal crust, these tender fillets fry up light, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious — perfect for family dinners, fish fries, or a satisfying weekend treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups fine yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 to 3 teaspoons seasoned salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons hot sauce
1 pound catfish fillets, patted dry and cut into smaller pieces if desired
Optional for serving: lemon wedges, tartar sauce, hot sauce
Instructions
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In a brown paper bag or Ziploc bag, combine the cornmeal, flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, lemon pepper, and cayenne pepper. Shake well to mix thoroughly.
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In a shallow dish, beat the eggs together with the hot sauce to create an egg wash.
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Dip each catfish fillet into the egg mixture, coating both sides completely.
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Transfer each fillet to the cornmeal mixture, coating thoroughly. Shake off any excess and lay the coated fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Refrigerate the breaded fillets for 10 to 15 minutes to help the coating set firmly.
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Heat about 4 inches of neutral oil in a Dutch oven, deep fryer, or heavy pot to 350°F to 375°F.
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Fry the catfish fillets in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook until golden brown, about 2 to 5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
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Drain cooked catfish on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet.
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Let the fried catfish rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or extra hot sauce if desired.
Notes
For best results, maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F while frying
Use a wire rack to keep the fish crispy instead of placing directly on paper towels
Adjust cayenne pepper for more or less heat depending on your preference
Great with traditional sides like coleslaw, fries, or cornbread
Leftover fried catfish can be reheated in the oven to restore crispiness