How to Make Southern Fried Catfish Recipe

Joshuaon

Southern Fried Catfish Recipe – Crispy, Golden, and Flavorful

If you’re craving authentic Southern comfort food, this crispy fried catfish recipe is a must-try. With its golden cornmeal crust, tender flaky inside, and a hint of spice, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or backyard fish fries.

🧂 Ingredients for Southern Fried Catfish

  • 4–6 catfish fillets (fresh or thawed)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for soaking)
  • 1 cup fine or medium-grind cornmeal
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Vegetable oil for frying (peanut oil or canola oil recommended)

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the Catfish (Optional but Recommended)

In a large bowl or resealable bag, mix buttermilk with hot sauce. Add the catfish fillets and let them soak in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps tenderize the fish and removes any muddy flavor.

2. Prepare the Cornmeal Breading

In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until evenly mixed.

3. Heat the Frying Oil

In a deep skillet, cast-iron pan, or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge or at least cover half of each fillet.

4. Coat the Catfish

Remove fillets from the buttermilk (shake off excess) and dredge them in the cornmeal mixture. Press lightly to coat all sides evenly for maximum crunch.

5. Fry the Catfish

Carefully place fillets into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

6. Drain and Rest

Transfer fried catfish to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate. Let rest for 2 minutes to keep the crust crispy.

🍋 Serving Suggestions

Pair your Southern fried catfish with these classic Southern side dishes:

  • Coleslaw or creamy potato salad
  • Golden hush puppies or skillet cornbread
  • Crispy French fries or roasted potatoes
  • Collard greens or green beans

For condiments, serve with tartar sauce, remoulade, hot sauce, or fresh lemon wedges.

✅ Pro Tip: For extra crunch, double-dip the catfish by coating it in buttermilk and cornmeal mixture twice before frying.

This easy homemade fried catfish recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite!