Print

Crispy Cast Iron Blackened Catfish Louisiana Style Recipe Easy and Perfect

crispy cast iron blackened catfish - featured image
Print Recipe

A bold and flavorful Louisiana-style blackened catfish recipe cooked in a cast iron skillet for a crispy crust and tender, flaky fish inside. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed or left on depending on preference
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons high smoke point oil (canola or grapeseed)

Instructions

  1. Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir to blend.
  3. Brush each fillet with about 1 tablespoon of melted butter on both sides.
  4. Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over both sides of each fillet, pressing lightly to adhere.
  5. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of high smoke point oil and let it get very hot but not smoking.
  6. Place the fillets in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a dark, crispy crust forms.
  7. Using tongs, gently flip each fillet and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove from skillet and let rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the fish dry is crucial for a crispy crust. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level. If pan smokes too much, reduce heat slightly. For dairy-free, substitute butter with melted coconut oil or vegan butter. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently in skillet to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened catfish, cast iron skillet, Louisiana style, Cajun fish recipe, crispy catfish, quick dinner, southern cooking

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/crispy-cast-iron-blackened-catfish-louisiana-style-recipe-easy-and-perfect/