Blackened Catfish Recipe: A Southern Delight You’ll Love

Blackened catfish is here to save the day if you’re craving bold flavors and a quick-to-make yet impressive dish.

This Southern classic is known for its smoky, spicy crust and tender, flaky fish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or wowing guests at your next dinner party, this recipe delivers every time.

Plus, it pairs perfectly with just about any side dish you love. Let’s dive right in!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Catfish fillets (boneless, skinless) – Fresh is best for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Blackening seasoning:2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
• Unsalted butter (melted) or avocado oil coats the fish.
• Lemon wedges – Optional, but a squeeze of fresh lemon at the end elevates the flavor.

Equipment

• A cast-iron skillet – is essential for achieving that perfect blackened crust.
• Tongs or a fish spatula – make flipping a breeze.

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1: Prep the Catfish

Start by patting your catfish fillets dry with a paper towel. This step ensures the seasoning sticks better and gives you a crispier crust. Brush both sides of each fillet with melted butter or oil. This adds flavor and helps the seasoning adhere.

Step 2: Season Generously

Combine all the spices in a small bowl to make your blackening seasoning. Sprinkle the mixture liberally over both sides of the fillets. Don’t be shy—the seasoning creates that signature bold flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Place your cast-iron skillet on the stove over high heat. Let it heat up until it’s smoking hot. A scorching-hot skillet is key to achieving that charred, blackened crust.

Step 4: Sear the Fish

Carefully place the seasoned fillets into the hot skillet. Depending on the size of your pan, you might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Let each fillet cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes on one side until a deep, dark crust forms. Using tongs or a fish spatula, gently flip the fillets, then cook the other side for 2–3 minutes.

You’ll know they’re done when the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the blackened catfish to a plate and serve immediately. Garnish with lemon wedges for extra brightness, and pair it with your favorite sides (more on that below).

Tips for Blackening Success

1. Don’t skimp on the heat. The skillet needs to be very hot for that signature blackened crust. If it’s not hot enough, the spices won’t char, and you’ll miss out on that smoky flavor.
2. Use fresh fish. Fresh catfish is firm yet tender, which makes all the difference in texture.
3. Ventilate your kitchen. Blackening produces a lot of smoke, so turn on your fan or open a window to keep things clear.

Delicious Variations

Blackened catfish is versatile! If you don’t like catfish, you can use this same method with shrimp, salmon, or even chicken.

Adjust the cayenne in the seasoning to control the heat level, and experiment with adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

Perfect Pairings

This dish shines alongside simple yet flavorful sides. Here are some ideas:

• Dirty Rice: A classic Louisiana staple that complements the boldness of the fish.
• Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy, it balances the spices beautifully.
• Steamed Vegetables: A lighter option to keep the meal fresh and healthy.
• Sauces: For extra flavor, serve with a drizzle of remoulade, tartar sauce, or even a zesty yogurt dip.

Health Perks of Catfish

Catfish isn’t just tasty – it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s rich in protein and low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. Plus, it contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and brain function.

Wrap-Up

Blackened catfish is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The bold seasoning, smoky crust, and tender fish make it a dish you’ll want to make repeatedly.

With just a few pantry staples and a cast-iron skillet, you can whip up a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

Ready to give it a try? Grab your skillet, crank up the heat, and let this Southern classic transform your next dinner. Your taste buds will thank you!