Experience the bold and savory flavors of Baked Cajun Catfish, a Southern classic that brings a taste of Louisiana to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of spice and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal or a special weekend dinner. The combination of fresh catfish fillets and a robust Cajun seasoning creates a meal that is both healthy and satisfying.
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- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Prepare the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Season the Catfish:
In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful spice blend. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the catfish fillets, pressing it in gently to ensure the fish is well-coated.
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Arrange and Bake:
Place the seasoned catfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the fillets to help them crisp up during baking. Arrange lemon slices on top of and around the catfish for added flavor and moisture.
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the catfish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
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Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the catfish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Calorie Count per serving: 250 kcal Serving Size: 4 servings
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Serving Tips
Accompaniments: Baked Cajun Catfish pairs beautifully with Southern staples like cornbread, collard greens, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve with a quinoa salad or sautรฉed green beans. The spicy, smoky flavors of the Cajun seasoning also complement a cool cucumber or tomato salad.
Garnishing: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of freshness. If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider topping the catfish with a handful of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed pecans before baking.
Temperature: This dish is best served hot, straight from the oven. The catfish should be flaky and moist, with a slightly crisp exterior.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store any leftover catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to cool the fish completely before refrigerating to maintain its texture.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each baked fillet individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the catfish in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the catfish in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the fish rubbery. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to the baking dish and cover it with foil to keep the fish moist.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the catfish, as this can dry it out. The fish is done when itโs heated through and still moist.
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Blackened Cajun Catfish
Additions: To make blackened catfish, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Coat the seasoned catfish fillets with a bit more olive oil and cook each side for about 3 minutes until blackened and crispy. Finish in the oven if needed. Serving Suggestion: Serve with Cajun-style dirty rice or a classic potato salad.
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Cajun Catfish with Creamy Sauce
Additions: Prepare a quick creamy sauce by mixing 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and a splash of lemon juice. Drizzle over the baked catfish just before serving. Serving Suggestion: This variation pairs well with steamed asparagus or buttered corn on the cob.
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Cajun Catfish Tacos
Additions: Slice the baked catfish into strips and serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of spicy aioli or salsa. Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of Mexican-style street corn and a cold beverage like iced tea or a light beer.
๐ ๐ซ๐๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐ฌ๐ค๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง (๐ ๐๐๐ฌ):
Can I use frozen catfish fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before seasoning and baking. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
What if I donโt have Cajun seasoning?
If you donโt have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and salt. Adjust the quantities based on your preference for spiciness.
Can I make this recipe with other types of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other firm white fish such as tilapia, cod, or haddock. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Is Baked Cajun Catfish healthy?
Yes, baked catfish is a healthy option, especially when compared to fried versions. Itโs high in protein and low in calories and fat. Using olive oil and fresh spices keeps the dish flavorful without adding unhealthy fats.
Baked Cajun Catfish is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish thatโs perfect for bringing a taste of the South into your home. Whether youโre looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that will impress guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. Donโt forget to explore the variations and serving suggestions to make this meal truly your own. Enjoy the spicy, savory goodness of Baked Cajun Catfish!
A good and healthy baked fish dish like this one, needs a sweet and delicious dessert after. This is a recipe for a homemade icecream that you can make yourself !