BAKED CAJUN CATFISH

If you’re craving something savory with a bit of a kick, this Baked Cajun Catfish is the perfect dish. Packed with bold, spicy Cajun flavors and baked to perfection, this catfish recipe is a delicious way to enjoy seafood with a healthy twist. It’s quick to prepare, easy to cook, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether served on weeknights or at weekend gatherings.

Here’s how to make this tasty dish in your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Tools and Equipment
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preparing the Catfish
- Making the Cajun Spice Blend
- Baking the Catfish
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Perfect Catfish
Variations and Customizations
FAQs and Storage Tips
Conclusion: A Spicy and Satisfying Meal

1. Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked catfish recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bold, zesty flavors with minimal fuss. The homemade Cajun seasoning blend adds a smoky, spicy taste to the mild catfish, and baking it ensures a tender, flaky texture without needing much oil. The result is a healthy, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Catfish:

4 catfish fillets (about 6-8 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Tools and Equipment

Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil
Mixing Bowl
Basting Brush or Spoon
Measuring Spoons
Spatula

4. Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Catfish

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Pat the Catfish Dry: Use paper towels to pat the catfish fillets dry. Drying the fillets ensures they absorb the seasoning well and bake up crisp.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the seasoning stick and gives the catfish a delicious crust.

Step 2: Making the Cajun Spice Blend

Combine the Spices: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Season the Catfish: Generously coat both sides of each catfish fillet with the Cajun spice blend, pressing the seasoning onto the fish for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Baking the Catfish

Arrange the Fillets: Place the seasoned catfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Bake: Bake the catfish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and has a golden-brown crust. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the catfish from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional lemon slices, if desired.

5. Serving Suggestions

With Sides: Serve the Cajun catfish with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Over Rice: Pair the fish with steamed white rice or Cajun-style dirty rice for a complete meal.
With Vegetables: Balance out the spiciness by serving the fish with sautéed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad.

6. Tips for Perfect Catfish

Use Fresh Fillets: Fresh or freshly thawed fillets yield the best texture and flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice blend. For more spice, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
Don’t Overcook: Catfish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying it out. It’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork.

7. Variations and Customizations

Blackened Catfish: For a traditional blackened catfish, cook the fillets in a hot cast-iron skillet with butter instead of baking them.
Herbed Catfish: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill to the spice blend for an herbaceous twist.
Breaded Catfish: Coat the seasoned fillets in cornmeal or breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy exterior.

8. FAQs and Storage Tips

How Do I Store Leftovers? Store any leftover catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Freeze It? Yes, you can freeze baked catfish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How Do I Reheat It? Reheat leftover catfish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

9. Conclusion: A Spicy and Satisfying Meal

This Baked Cajun Catfish is a simple, flavorful dish that brings Southern comfort to your dinner table. With its bold seasoning, tender fish, and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.