Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, about 4 large fillets
  • 0.5 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • 0.5 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp high-heat cooking oil spray

Instructions:

  1. Pat the catfish fillets extremely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
  2. Set up a dredging station: In one bowl, whisk the buttermilk and hot sauce. In a second bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay, pepper, and salt.
  3. Dip each fillet into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing firmly so the breading adheres.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  5. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops generously with oil until no dry flour spots remain.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
  7. Carefully flip the fillets using tongs, spray the other side with oil, and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let the fish rest for 2 minutes on a wire rack before serving with lemon wedges.