Southern Comfort: Crispy Oven-Baked Catfish with Zesty Lemon-Herb Crust

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a bit of southern comfort food? i know i do! ever wondered how to make baked catfish that's actually crispy and full of flavour? this recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Quick Hook

Honestly, i used to think catfish recipes were boring. but this southern baked catfish recipe changed my mind! it's got that satisfying crunch and a zesty lemon-herb kick.

This dish makes baked catfish fillets something special.

Brief Overview

This oven baked catfish recipe easy brings a taste of the south to your table. it's surprisingly easy to make.

You only need around 45 minutes. this recipe yields four servings, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Main Benefits

This healthy baked catfish recipe is packed with protein. it’s a much healthier way to enjoy catfish dinner than the usual fried version.

Serve it up at your next sunday lunch. what makes this recipe so special? it’s the crispy crust combined with the tender, flaky fish.

Oh my gosh, your taste buds are in for a treat!.

Ready to dive in? Let's talk ingredients for this Crispy Baked Catfish .

Right then, let's talk ingredients and equipment for this unreal southern baked catfish recipe . honestly, it's proper easy, even if you're a bit of a novice in the kitchen.

Think of it as comfort food, but, like, healthy comfort food, you know?

Southern Comfort: Crispy Oven-Baked Catfish with Zesty Lemon-Herb Crust Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:25 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets (6-8 ounces/ 170-225 grams each), skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15 ml)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced (yields about 2 tablespoons juice/ 30 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1.25 ml)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (85 grams)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (10 grams)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill (5 grams)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, 10 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (1.25 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (1.25 ml)
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (30 ml)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
• Pat catfish fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Brush each fillet with the Dijon-lemon mixture.
• In a separate shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well. Stir in melted butter.
• Dredge each fillet in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Ensure the fillets are evenly coated.
• Place breaded catfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:375

Fat:22.5g

Fiber:2.5g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Southern

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients for Crispy Baked Catfish

Okay, so here's what you'll need for this Oven Baked Catfish Recipe Easy . No need to panic, it's mostly stuff you probably already have knocking about.

• Catfish Fillets : You'll need 4 fillets, each about 6-8 ounces (170-225 grams) . Make sure they're skinless, yeah? Fresh is always best, but frozen works in a pinch. Give 'em a sniff; they shouldn't smell too fishy.
• Olive Oil : 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Any kind will do, really. I usually just grab the extra virgin.
• Dijon Mustard : 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . It adds a bit of tang. Trust me on this one.
• Lemon : 1 whole lemon, zested and juiced ( about 2 tablespoons/30 ml of juice). Get a nice, plump one.
• Salt & Pepper : 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt, 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) pepper. Seasoning is key, innit?
• Panko Breadcrumbs : 1 cup (85 grams) . These are what make it crispy. Don't skimp!
• Fresh Parsley : 1/4 cup (10 grams) , finely chopped. Fresh is a must here.
• Fresh Dill : 2 tablespoons (5 grams) , finely chopped. Smells divine.
• Parmesan Cheese : 2 tablespoons (10 grams) , grated (optional). Adds a bit of richness.
• Garlic Powder : 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) .
• Paprika : 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . For a touch of colour and smokiness.
• Melted Butter : 2 tablespoons (30 ml) , unsalted.

Seasoning Notes for your Lemon Herb Baked Catfish

The key is the lemon-herb combo, innit? the dijon mustard adds a bit of bite. if you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.

Dried herbs work if you're stuck, but honestly, fresh herbs make all the difference for this healthy baked catfish recipe .

You could also sub in some tarragon or chives if you’re feeling fancy.

Equipment Needed for Perfect Baked Catfish Fillets

Right, so you won't need anything too fancy.

• Baking Sheet: A standard one will do the job.
• Parchment Paper: Optional, but it makes cleaning up a doddle.
• Shallow Dishes: For breading the fish. Plates work too.
• Small Bowls: For mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
• Lemon Zester: If you don't have one, a fine grater will do.

Honestly? That's it. Nothing too scary. Now let's get to the fun part... cooking! This Baked Catfish is going to be banging.

Southern Comfort: Crispy Oven Baked Catfish Recipe Easy with Zesty Lemon-Herb Crust

Fancy some baked catfish ? this is the recipe. we're talking about seriously flavourful baked catfish fillets , the kind of catfish dinner that'll have everyone asking for seconds.

It's way easier than you think, honestly. forget deep-frying. we are going for crispy goodness, baked ! think crispy baked catfish with a fancy twist.

Prep Steps for Phenomenal Fish

Essential mise en place is vital. first, get your catfish fillets. then measure out all your ingredients. chop those herbs! it's all about having everything ready to roll.

This saves loads of time.

Get Ready to Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Get that baking sheet ready. Parchment paper makes clean-up a breeze.
2. Pat those catfish fillets dry with paper towels. Seriously, do it! Mix olive oil, Dijon, lemon zest and juice, salt and pepper.
3. Brush each fillet with the Dijon-lemon mixture. This is the magic happening.
4. Mix the crust ingredients. That means panko, parsley, dill, Parmesan (if you want), garlic powder and paprika. Melt that butter. Stir it all together.
5. Dredge each fillet in the panko mixture. Press gently so the crumbs stick.
6. Place the breaded catfish on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20- 25 minutes . The internal temperature has to be 145° F ( 63° C) .
8. Serve that amazing Lemon Herb Baked Catfish immediately. Lemon wedges are a must.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Catfish

Want to take your southern baked catfish recipe next level? pat the fillets super dry. this makes the crust extra crispy.

Don't overcrowd the pan. give each fillet some space to breathe. avoid overbaking! dry fish is sad fish.

Healthier Baked Catfish Recipes

This Healthy Baked Catfish Recipe is so much better than frying. You get all the flavour without all the grease.

Recipe Notes for Your Perfect Baked Catfish

Alright, let's dive a little deeper. These recipe notes will help you nail this baked catfish every single time. I've learned a few things over the years making this, so listen up!

Serving Up Your Crispy Baked Catfish

Presentation matters, right? for the southern baked catfish recipe , i reckon a bed of creamy coleslaw brightens up the plate.

Think colourful! some roasted asparagus adds a touch of class. seriously, it looks amazing. cheesy grits are a classic, too.

Lemon wedges are a must! a little squeeze of lemon brightens the whole catfish dinner . as for drinks, a crisp white wine, like sauvignon blanc, complements the fish perfectly.

Storing Your Baked Catfish Fillets

Honestly, oven baked catfish recipe easy is best fresh. but life happens. if you have leftovers, refrigerate them asap. pop them in an airtight container.

They'll be good for 2-3 days . freezing cooked baked catfish isn't ideal. it can mess with the texture. but if you must, wrap the fillets tightly.

Use freezer-safe bags. reheating? an oven is best. low and slow! about 350° f ( 175° c) until heated through.

Microwave is an option, but the crust might get a bit soggy.

Baked Catfish Recipes : Tweaks & Twists

Need to adapt this? no sweat! want a gluten-free version of crispy baked catfish ? use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs! easy peasy.

For a lighter version, swap the butter for olive oil. or even applesauce. experiment with different herbs. thyme or rosemary instead of dill can be amazing.

It all depends on the vibe that you are going for.

Nutrition Nuggets: Healthy Baked Catfish Recipe

Let's be real – we all want to know what we're eating. this lemon herb baked catfish is a great source of lean protein.

Baked catfish is also packed with healthy fats. plus, it's lower in carbs than fried fish, which can only be a good thing.

Calorie-wise, you're looking at around 350-400 per serving. protein is around 30-35 grams . fat clocks in at 20-25 grams , and carbs are 10-15 grams .

Remember, these are just estimates!

So there you have it! all the juicy details for making perfect baked catfish . with these tips, you'll be nailing this dish in no time.

Honestly, it's easier than you think. and once you get the hang of it, you'll be whipping it up all the time! happy cooking!