Pan fried catfish filets –Welcome, culinary adventurers! Today, we’re diving into the crispy, golden world of Southern Fried Catfish. This delightfully crunchy dish will have your taste buds dancing faster than a cat on a hot tin roof! Let’s get frying!
Feast Your Eyes!
Before we jump into the scrumptious details, let me tease you with a peek at our star player:

Ingredients for Catfish Extravaganza
Gather your ingredients like a squirrel hoarding nuts for winter. You’ll need:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (for a bit of sass)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (make it fancy, use peanut oil if you feel adventurous!)
Instructions to Catfish Glory
Now, let’s get to the juicy part – how to create this crunchy masterpiece!
- First, take those catfish fillets and give them a luxurious dip in the buttermilk. Let them soak in their creamy bath for at least 30 minutes. They deserve to feel fancy!
- While your fish is taking its buttermilk spa day, mix together the cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. This is your crispy armor!
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan – about half an inch will do. Get it hot, but not smoking! We’re frying fish, not starting a fire.
- Once the oil is sizzling, take the catfish fillets out of the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the cornmeal mixture, making sure they are well-coated. Shake off the excess like you just stepped out of a swimming pool!
- Time to fry! Gently place the fillets in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and delicious. Flip them like you mean it!
- Once they’re perfectly crispy, transfer the catfish to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. No one likes a greasy meal!
- Serve your Southern Fried Catfish while it’s hot, with your favorite tartar sauce on the side, and enjoy like the culinary boss you are!
And there you have it, a plateful of Southern Fried Catfish that will make your dinner table the talk of the town! Happy cooking!