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How to Make Crispy Southern Fried Catfish

How to Make Crispy Southern Fried Catfish

There’s nothing quite like the crunch of perfectly fried catfish—golden brown, crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. Whether you're frying up a big batch for a backyard fish fry or making a quick dinner, this classic Southern dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

If you want to make authentic fried catfish at home, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process. And if you're looking for high-quality catfish fillets and the best fish fry seasonings, check out our hand-picked selection of fresh catfish and coatings to make frying easier than ever.

Ingredients for Fried Catfish

For the Catfish:

For the Breading:

Or make things easier with these pre-seasoned fish fry coatings:

 

 

For Frying:

  • 4 cups vegetable oil (peanut oil or canola oil works best)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Catfish

  1. Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. Place them in a large bowl and cover with buttermilk. Add hot sauce if using.
  3. Let the fish soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator. This helps remove any fishy taste and keeps the fillets tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

  1. In a shallow dish, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and Cajun seasoning.
  2. For an easier method, use Ragin Cajun Breading Mix, Louisiana Fish Fry Classic Fish Fry or Slap Ya Mama Cajun Fish Fry for a perfect crispy texture.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F.
  2. To test if the oil is ready, drop a pinch of cornmeal in—it should sizzle and float to the top.

Step 4: Coat the Catfish

  1. Remove the fillets from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
  2. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating.
  3. Shake off any excess before frying.

Step 5: Fry the Catfish

  1. Carefully lower the fillets into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  2. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the catfish and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Fried catfish is best served fresh and hot. Pair it with:

  • Hush puppies
  • Coleslaw
  • French fries
  • Tartar sauce or hot sauce

Get Everything You Need for the Best Fried Catfish

Skip the hassle and grab these premium fish fry products:

Enjoy the Best Southern Fried Catfish

Now that you know how to make crispy, golden fried catfish at home, it’s time to fire up the fryer and enjoy the flavors of the South. Whether you’re cooking from scratch or using Louisiana Fish Fry Coatings for a quick and easy meal, you’re in for a delicious feast.

So grab your fillets, season them up, and let the frying begin.

Mar 5th 2025 Creole Foods of Louisiana

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