Sweet Spicy Blackened Catfish with Mango Salsa

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with this sweet and spicy blackened catfish?

For a Southern-inspired feast, creamy grits or coleslaw are classic choices that balance the spice. Roasted sweet potatoes are another great option, offering a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture. To keep things light, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette works wonders. Think of it like creating a well-balanced symphony of flavours!

Sweet Spicy Catfish Recipes Blackened Perfection

By Laura TideJuly 29, 2025

3.88 (8 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy something a bit different for dinner tonight? Are you looking for new catfish recipes ? This sweet and spicy catfish dish will blow your mind, mate! We’re talking seriously good flavors.

This recipe is like bringing Southern comfort, but with a Cajun flair.

Brief Overview

This recipe is inspired by traditional Southern catfish recipes , taken up a notch. It's a dish with great history.

It's a breeze to make: easy peasy and ready in about 30 minutes. This recipe serves 4 happy bellies.

Main Benefits

It is absolutely packed with protein. It's fantastic for a weeknight meal or even a casual BBQ. This particular recipe really shines because it’s a fresh take on Cajun catfish recipe .

It balances the spice with the sweetness of mango. Okay, mate, let's get this sorted!

Right, let's talk ingredients for this amazing Blackened catfish recipe ! You'll need some lovely catfish fillet recipes , of course. We'll use mango for the Mango salsa recipe too.

Here’s what you’ll need for the catfish: For the blackened fish recipes you need 4 catfish fillets. You also need olive oil, butter, Cajun blackening spice, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper.

Trust me, this Quick catfish dinner will soon become a favourite.

And for that delicious mango salsa recipe : grab a ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno (if you like a kick), and lime juice.

With these ingredients, you are off to easy catfish recipes ! It's a pan-seared catfish dream that your family will be raving about for weeks! It is like a holiday in your mouth, mate!

Ingredients & Equipment For Your Sweet & Spicy Feast

Okay, mate, let's get this sorted. We're diving into the ingredients and gear you'll need for this Sweet and Spicy Catfish adventure! It's easier than you think, honestly.

Main Ingredients: The Catfish Symphony

Catfish Fillets: You'll need 4 (about 6 oz/170g each). Fresh is best, but frozen works if you thaw it right. Look for firm fillets with a mild smell. If they smell too fishy, skip 'em.
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30ml) of good quality olive oil. This helps with searing and gives the catfish a lovely crust.
Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp (30g) of proper butter, it adds richness to the pan and helps the spice stick.
Cajun Blackening Spice: 2 tbsp (25g) . store-bought is fine, but homemade is wicked easy!
Brown Sugar: 1 tbsp (15ml) , packed. It's for that sweet counterpoint to the spice.
Paprika: 1 tsp (5ml) for color and a bit of smokiness.
Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) because garlic makes everything better.
Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) . This is where the heat comes in! Add more if you like it hot, hot, hot!
Mango: 1 ripe one, diced. It’s the star of the salsa!.
Red Onion: 1/2 , finely diced.
Cilantro: 1/4 cup (15g) , chopped. Fresh is key!
Jalapeño: 1 , seeded and minced. Optional, but a nice kick.
Lime Juice: 2 tbsp (30ml) , freshly squeezed.
Seasoning: Salt and pepper.

Seasoning Secrets for Amazing Catfish Recipes

The blend of Cajun spices, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne is the heart of this dish. Don't be afraid to play around with the ratios.

If you don't have Cajun spice, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. For a sweeter Cajun catfish recipe , use a bit more brown sugar.

For a fiery kick, add a pinch of chili flakes. You can’t have the perfect blackened catfish recipe without those seasonings.

Essential Equipment For These Easy Catfish Recipes

Large Cast Iron Skillet: This is your best friend for getting that perfect sear. A heavy bottomed frying pan works too.
Mixing Bowls: For the spice blend and salsa.
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Safety first!
Tongs: To flip the catfish fillets without tearing them.

You don't need fancy gadgets. A good pan and a bit of love are all it takes. Get ready for some delicious Southern catfish recipes and blackened fish recipes , all in one! This is the most quick catfish dinner you can do!

Enjoy this Pan-seared catfish and remember that you can pair it with a Mango salsa recipe .

Searing That Catfish: My Go-To Method

Okay, mate, let's get this sorted. We're diving into the wonderful world of searing. More particularly, we're talking about getting that catfish perfectly seared.

I've cooked my fair share of catfish recipes over the years, and I've definitely learned a thing or two about getting that crispy, flavourful crust.

Get ready for a tasty quick catfish dinner .

Prep Steps: Essential Mise en Place

First things first: mise en place. It's fancy French, but all it means is "get your stuff ready". For this sweet and spicy catfish , get your mango salsa recipe ingredients prepped.

Dice that mango. Finely dice the red onion and jalapeño too if you're feeling brave! Chop the cilantro. Squeeze that lime juice.

Have it all ready to go.

Also, measure out your blackening spices. Mix that brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This will make for a great Cajun catfish recipe .

Trust me, prepping ahead will save your bacon later.

step-by-step: Searing to Perfection

Pat the fish dry. Use paper towels to get those catfish fillet recipes nice and dry. Seriously, this is crucial for a good sear.
Season generously. Dredge those fillets in your Cajun blackening spice mix. Make sure you coat both sides really well.
Heat the pan. Get your cast iron skillet screaming hot over medium high heat. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. You want it shimmering , almost smoking.
Sear, baby, sear! Carefully place the seasoned catfish fillets in the hot skillet. Don't overcrowd it! Do it in batches if needed.
Cook it right. Sear for 3- 4 minutes per side , or until the fish is cooked through. It should flake easily with a fork.
The internal temperature must reach 145° F ( 63° C) .
Serve it up . Top with that mango salsa .

Pro Tips: Expert Techniques

Want to take your pan-seared catfish game to the next level?

Don't be afraid of the heat! A hot pan is key to a good sear.
Don't overcook the catfish . It dries out easily.
If you're short on time, store-bought blackened catfish seasoning works a treat.

Honestly, this is one of the easy catfish recipes and it can seriously impress. So grab some catfish , whip up that mango salsa , and get ready for a flavour explosion.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for some Southern comfort with Cajun flair . Get ready for the best blackened fish recipes you've ever tasted!

Recipe Notes for Killer Catfish Recipes

Okay, mate, let's get this sorted. I want to share some tips for my Sweet & Spicy Blackened Catfish with Mango Salsa .

It is simple and tastes amazing. Follow these and you'll nail these catfish recipes . This Southern comfort dish will wow everyone.

Serving Suggestions That Sizzle

This Cajun catfish recipe deserves a stellar presentation. Plating is key! Think vibrant colours. Lay the blackened catfish on a bed of grits. Then spoon the mango salsa recipe over it.

For sides, creamy coleslaw balances the heat. Roasted sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness. A squeeze of lime is always good! A crisp Sauvignon Blanc really complements it.

Storage Tips and Tricks

Honestly, leftover catfish fillet recipes are rare! If you do have some, refrigerate it quickly. Use an airtight container, okay? . Keep it for up to 2 days.

Freezing isn't ideal for cooked catfish. It can change the texture. Reheating? A gentle pan-fry works best. Avoid the microwave! It makes it rubbery.

Delicious Variations

Want a dietary tweak? Use a low-carb sweetener instead of brown sugar. Serve it over cauliflower rice. Bam! Low-carb and tasty.

Seasonal swap? Try peaches or nectarines instead of mango in the salsa. It's delightful! This ensures our easy catfish recipes are inclusive.

Nutrition Basics You Need to Know

Each serving clocks in around 350 calories. It’s got 35g of protein. 15g of fat, and 15g of carbs. This quick catfish dinner is packed with protein and flavor.

It has 10g of sugar coming from mango. 2g of fiber. The nutritional information is an estimate, you know?

Nutrition Stat: Catfish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. It can improve your heart health! Think of it as a Southern catfish recipes with health benefits!

With these tips, your pan-seared catfish will be legendary. These blackened fish recipes are a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to avoid overcooking catfish? I always seem to dry it out!

Ah, the dreaded dry catfish! The trick is to not overcook it. Catfish is quite delicate, so sear it in a hot pan for just 3-4 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is your target. Think of it like making a perfectly cooked steak, but much faster!

Can I make this blackened catfish recipe ahead of time?

While the blackened catfish is best enjoyed immediately, you can certainly prep some components ahead of time. The mango salsa can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors meld.

I wouldn't recommend cooking the catfish ahead of time though, as it can lose its lovely sear and become a bit soggy. It's like trying to reheat a Sunday roast - never quite the same!

I don't have mangoes. What's a good substitute for the salsa?

No worries, there are plenty of substitutes for mangoes in the salsa! Pineapple is a fantastic option that provides a similar sweetness and texture, bringing that tropical vibe! Alternatively, nectarines or peaches will work wonderfully, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavour profile.

Get creative and see what works for you!

How spicy is this blackened catfish recipe? My family is a bit sensitive to heat.

The spice level is easily adjustable, so no need to worry about setting off any smoke alarms! The cayenne pepper in the blackening spice blend is the main culprit for heat. Start with a small amount, maybe 1/4 teaspoon, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!

Or, leave it out entirely for a milder dish. I hope you will enjoy these catfish recipes.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this sweet and spicy blackened catfish?

For a Southern inspired feast, creamy grits or coleslaw are classic choices that balance the spice. Roasted sweet potatoes are another great option, offering a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture. To keep things light, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette works wonders.

Think of it like creating a well balanced symphony of flavours!

Is catfish healthy? And what's the nutritional info on this recipe?

Absolutely! Catfish is a good source of lean protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. Each serving of this particular Sweet & Spicy Blackened Catfish recipe contains around 350 calories, 35g of protein, 15g of fat, and 15g of carbohydrates.

This makes it a relatively healthy and satisfying meal. Just remember, nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient specifics.