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Southern Fried Catfish

Catfish fillets are coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust and fried until golden and crisp, a true Southern classic.

⏱ 15 minPrep time
🔥 10 minCook time
🍽 4Servings
🏷 DinnerCategory
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Southern Fried Catfish with cornmeal coating and lemon wedges

Fried catfish has deep roots in Southern and African American culinary tradition, tied closely to fish fries held along rivers and lakes throughout the Mississippi Delta region. Cornmeal-crusted catfish became a beloved Southern staple by the 19th and 20th centuries, often served with hush puppies and coleslaw at community gatherings.

Crispy cornmeal crust and tender, flaky fish

Catfish fillets are coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust and fried until golden and crisp, a true Southern classic.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Mix the cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing to coat well.
  5. Fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  6. Drain on paper towels and serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Buttermilk not only tenderizes the fish but also helps the cornmeal crust adhere well. Keep the oil at a steady medium-high heat for the crispiest results without burning.

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Recipe details

Prep15 min
Cook10 min
Servings4
CategoryDinner
PublishedAugust 12, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →