Get ready to spice up your life with these 18 mouth-watering blackened catfish recipes that pack a punch of Cajun flavor! Blackened catfish is a classic Southern dish that originated in Louisiana, and it’s gained popularity nationwide for its bold, spicy taste. This article will take you on a culinary journey through the Bayou State, showcasing a variety of blackened catfish recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From tacos to sandwiches, salads to sides, we’ve got you covered with these creative takes on this beloved dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some heat and excitement to their mealtime routine. So grab your apron, don your Cajun hat, and get ready to dive into the world of spicy blackened catfish!
Blackened Catfish with Garlic Butter Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of catfish with the pungency of garlic butter sauce. This spicy southern delight is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the seasoning mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and garlic; sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add coated catfish fillets to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and serve with garlic butter sauce (simply whisk together heavy cream and remaining garlic butter mixture).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Blackened Catfish Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering twist on traditional tacos. Crispy catfish, spicy Cajun seasoning, and tangy slaw come together for a fiesta in your mouth.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season catfish with Cajun seasoning and black pepper.
3. Add butter to skillet and cook catfish for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with blackened catfish, shredded cabbage, carrots, and lime juice.
6. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich
This Southern-inspired sandwich combines the bold flavors of blackened catfish with crispy remoulade and crunchy lettuce on a soft baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning and paprika.
3. Dredge catfish in melted butter, coating evenly.
4. Place catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hoagie rolls.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked catfish on the roll, topping with remoulade sauce, lettuce, and pickle slices (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Mango Salsa
A spicy and sweet fusion of flavors, this recipe combines the bold taste of blackened catfish with the refreshing tang of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Catfish:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until blackened.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
7. Serve catfish with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish and Grits
Southern comfort food at its finest! This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened catfish with creamy grits for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions and paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and butter.
3. Place catfish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the blackening mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups water. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve catfish on top of grits, garnished with chopped scallions and paprika.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Creole Remoulade
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic blackened catfish dish, served with a tangy and creamy Creole remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup Creole remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the catfish fillets on a plate and brush both sides with the spice mixture.
4. Heat the softened butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the blackened catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with Creole remoulade sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blackened Catfish Salad with Avocado Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this bold and creamy combination of flavors. Crispy blackened catfish meets fresh greens, crunchy veggies, and a rich avocado dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and place catfish fillets. Blacken for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and blackened catfish.
5. In a blender, mix avocado, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
6. Toss salad with the Avocado Dressing just before serving.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Lemon Herb Butter
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional catfish, this recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with a bright and citrusy lemon herb butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Serve catfish topped with lemon herb butter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Catfish Jambalaya
A bold twist on the classic Cajun dish, this blackened catfish jambalaya combines the spicy flavors of New Orleans with the simplicity of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add catfish pieces; blacken for 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove catfish from skillet; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return blackened catfish to the skillet; stir to coat with jambalaya mixture.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven; bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Spicy Corn Relish
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the sweetness of corn and a kick of heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, divided
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Spicy Corn Relish (recipe below)
Spicy Corn Relish:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish; cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Remove from heat; let rest for 2 minutes.
5. Serve with Spicy Corn Relish.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Catfish and Red Beans with Rice
A classic Southern combination of flavors and textures, this recipe combines the bold taste of blackened catfish with the comforting warmth of red beans and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup red kidney beans, cooked
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, cook red beans according to package instructions.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using the same water as cooking the red beans.
6. Serve blackened catfish on top of red beans and rice. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Cajun Cream Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this spicy and rich recipe that combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with a creamy cajun twist. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Serve blackened catfish with Cajun cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Catfish Lettuce Wraps
Add a spicy twist to your lunch routine with these flavorful blackened catfish lettuce wraps.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 lettuce leaves (butter or iceberg work well)
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season catfish fillets with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Place catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble wraps by placing blackened catfish on a lettuce leaf, followed by shredded red cabbage and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Dirty Rice
A classic Creole-inspired dish that combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the comfort of creamy dirty rice. This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup dirty rice mixture (see below)
– Cooking oil or butter for pan-frying
Dirty Rice Mixture:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add oil or butter to prevent sticking.
4. Sear catfish for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook dirty rice mixture in a separate pan with melted butter and chopped vegetables. Serve alongside blackened catfish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish and Shrimp Skewers
Add a bold and spicy twist to your seafood dinner with these blackened catfish and shrimp skewers, infused with the flavors of the Bayou. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning (such as Tony’s)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Thread catfish and shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the seafood with the blackening mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and the shrimp are pink.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Sweet Potato Mash
This classic Southern dish combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the comfort of creamy sweet potato mash. Serve it up for a quick and delicious dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and butter.
3. Season catfish fillets with salt and pepper. Add the blackening mixture on both sides of each fillet.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and mash with heavy cream, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve blackened catfish on top of sweet potato mash. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish Étouffée
A classic Louisiana dish gets a bold twist with the addition of blackening seasoning and catfish, resulting in a rich and flavorful étouffée that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning and cook in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
4. Add diced tomatoes, fish stock, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in butter until melted.
6. Serve blackened catfish on top of étouffée sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Andouille Sausage
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning and spicy Andouille sausage with flaky catfish, resulting in a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season catfish fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
4. Add catfish fillets to skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
5. Serve catfish with Andouille sausage, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Garnish with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with these 18 mouth-watering blackened catfish recipes infused with Cajun flair! From classic dishes like Blackened Catfish with Garlic Butter Sauce and Blackened Catfish Po’ Boy Sandwich, to creative twists like Cajun Blackened Catfish Tacos and Blackened Catfish with Mango Salsa, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty dinner or a quick lunch, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get blackened, and let the Cajun magic begin!
