If you love Southern-style fried catfish but want a healthier, mess-free alternative to deep frying, then this Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish is for you!
Coated in a perfectly seasoned, crispy Homemade Louisiana-Style Fish Fry Mix, this golden, crunchy catfish delivers all the classic Southern flavors—without the excess oil! The air fryer ensures an ultra-crispy crust while keeping the fish tender and flaky inside.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, fish fries, or a fun twist on Southern comfort food, this Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish will knock your socks off with authentic flavors and crispy perfection!
- YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE AS WELL:
- EASY TARTER TOT CASSEROLE
- EASY, HEARTY BEEF AND GNOCCHI SOUP
- CREAMY CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
- EASY AND DELICIOUS BROWN SUGAR BAKED CARROTS
- THE BEST CORNBREAD FROM SCRATCH!
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 pounds Catfish Fillets
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 Lemon
- 1/2 cup Yellow Mustard
- Cornmeal Seasoning Mix
- 1/2 cup Cornmeal
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 2 Tablespoons Dried Parsley Flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
INSTRUCTIONS:
1 ) Place Catfish into a flat container and add Milk. Cut Lemon in half and squeeze about two teaspoons of juice into Milk to make Buttermilk. Place container in refrigerator and let
2 ) Fillets soak for 15 minutes.
3 ) In a shallow bowl, combine Cornmeal Seasoning Ingredients.
4 ) Remove Fillets from Buttermilk and pat dry with paper towels.
5 ) Spread Mustard generously over both sides of Fillets.
6 ) Dip each Fillet into Cornmeal mixture and coat well to make a thick coating.
7 ) Place Fillets into greased Air Fryer Basket. Spray generously with oil.
8 ) Cook at 390/400 degrees for 10 minutes. Flip over Fillets and spray with Oil and cook an additional 3-5 minutes.
Notes: A combination of Yellow Mustard and Dijon Mustard will also work well.
<<Buy Cooking Book”>>>The Pretty Dish: More than 150 Everyday Recipes and 50 Beauty DIYs to Nourish Your Body Inside and Out>>
Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish
- Pat the Fish Dry Before Breading – Helps the coating stick better for an even crispier crust.
- Use Cornmeal for Authentic Southern Flavor – It creates that perfect crunchy texture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer – This ensures an even, golden crust from the start.
- Spray the Fish with Oil Before Cooking – This mimics deep-frying and enhances crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Cook in batches for the crispiest results.
(FAQ) About Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish
1. Can I use frozen catfish fillets?
- Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry completely before breading to prevent sogginess.
2. What’s the best way to get an extra crispy crust?
- Double-dip the fish in the cornmeal mixture, and spray with a little oil before air frying.
3. How long do I cook catfish in the air fryer?
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Can I use this recipe for other types of fish?
- Absolutely! Try it with tilapia, cod, or whiting for a crispy air-fried seafood dish.
5. How do I reheat fried catfish in the air fryer?
- Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until crispy again—no soggy leftovers!
6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free cornmeal and flour for a gluten-free version.
7. Should I marinate the catfish before frying?
- For extra flavor, soak in buttermilk for 30 minutes before coating.
8. What should I serve with fried catfish?
- Classic sides like coleslaw, hush puppies, cornbread, or fries pair perfectly.
9. Can I use a store-bought fish fry mix?
- Yes! But making your own Louisiana-style seasoning mix is even better.
10. Do I need to flip the fish in the air fryer?
- Yes! Flipping halfway through ensures even crispiness on both sides.
