Go Back
To make Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Catfish, gather these ingredients: - 4 catfish fillets - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 cup cornmeal - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - Cooking spray or olive oil spray These ingredients work together to create a crispy, flavorful dish. The catfish fillets soak in buttermilk, making them tender and juicy. The seasoning mix is the star of this dish. Here’s a closer look: - Cajun seasoning: This adds the classic spicy flavor. It usually combines paprika, cayenne, garlic, and other spices. - Garlic powder: This adds depth and a savory taste. - Onion powder: This brings a sweet, onion-like flavor. - Cayenne pepper: This gives a kick. Adjust it based on your spice level. - Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Mix these spices well for an even coating on your catfish. If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes: - Catfish fillets: You can use tilapia or cod for a similar texture. - Buttermilk: Mix regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. - Cornmeal: Panko breadcrumbs can work for a different crunch. - Cajun seasoning: Use a mix of paprika, cumin, and chili powder instead. Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on what you have at home! Start by soaking the catfish fillets in buttermilk. This step is key for flavor and tenderness. Let the fish soak for at least 30 minutes. While you wait, you can prepare your seasoning mix. In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure to stir well so all the spices blend. Once your fish has soaked, take it out of the buttermilk, letting any extra liquid drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mix, pressing down lightly. This helps the coating stick well. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about five minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated fillets in a single layer, making sure they aren't touching. This allows hot air to circulate and makes them crispy. After placing the fillets, spray the tops with more cooking spray. Cook the catfish for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get an even cook. You’ll know they are done when they turn golden brown and flake easily with a fork. If they need more time, cook for an extra 2-3 minutes. Once done, let the fillets rest for a minute before serving. To get that desired crunch, use fresh cornmeal. It coats the fish better. After dredging, press the cornmeal into the fillets. This helps it stick. Spray the tops with cooking spray before cooking. This adds crispiness. Flip the fillets halfway for even browning. If they stick, use a spatula to free them. Soaking the catfish in buttermilk is key. It adds flavor and keeps the fish moist. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. For more flavor, add hot sauce to the buttermilk. You can also mix in some lemon juice. This enhances the taste even more. If your catfish isn’t crispy, check the cooking spray. Make sure to use enough. If the fillets are overcooked, they may dry out. Adjust the cooking time as needed. If the fish sticks, try a non-stick spray. For uneven cooking, ensure the air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your spicy Cajun air fryer catfish by using different spices. Try adding smoked paprika for a rich taste. You could use lemon pepper for a zesty kick. For a unique twist, consider adding dill or a splash of hot sauce to the buttermilk. Each of these options can change the dish while keeping it tasty. If you want a healthier version, reduce the amount of cornmeal. You can use whole wheat flour instead. This will keep the crust crunchy but add more fiber. You might also replace buttermilk with low-fat yogurt or a plant-based milk. These swaps help cut calories while still tasting great. When you serve your catfish, think about what sides to include. A fresh green salad or coleslaw pairs well and adds crunch. For a heartier meal, serve it with brown rice or quinoa. You can also add a side of spicy remoulade or tartar sauce for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges for a bright finish. To keep your leftover catfish fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Store the container in your fridge. The catfish stays good for about 2 to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. When you reheat catfish, aim for crispiness. The best way is to use the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the catfish in the basket for about 5 to 7 minutes. This method keeps the coating crispy. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a little oil to keep it from drying out. If you want to freeze your catfish, wrap each fillet in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped fillets in a freezer bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can tell catfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should look opaque and no longer translucent. If you are unsure, cook it a bit longer. I recommend checking it after 10 minutes. If it needs more time, add 2-3 more minutes. This helps ensure you get that perfect texture. Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Just make sure to thaw them first. A quick way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight. If you need them fast, place them in cold water for about 30 minutes. This way, the fillets will cook evenly and absorb the buttermilk well. The best oil for air frying catfish is a high smoke point oil. I recommend using olive oil or avocado oil. These oils help achieve that crispy texture without burning. Just a light spray on the fillets before cooking works great! This blog post covered how to make Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Catfish. We discussed needed ingredients, seasoning mixes, and why substitutes work. I shared steps for preparing, coating, and air frying the fish for the best crunch. You also learned tricks for marinating and fixing common problems. We looked at variations, storage tips, and answered good questions about cooking catfish. Enjoy cooking this tasty dish at home, and feel free to explore your flavor options!

Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Catfish

Delight your taste buds with this Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Catfish recipe! Perfectly crispy and packed with flavor, this dish is made with tender catfish fillets soaked in buttermilk and coated in a zesty cornmeal blend. In just 45 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that impresses family and friends. Ready to add a kick to your dinner? Click through for the full recipe and start cooking today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 catfish fillets

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup cornmeal

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions
 

Begin by soaking the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the fish and enhances its flavor.

    In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

      Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

        Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk and allowing any excess liquid to drip off.

          Dredge each fillet in the seasoned cornmeal mixture, pressing it down lightly to ensure a good coating.

            Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the fillets in a single layer, leaving space between them for even cooking.

              Spray the tops of the coated fillets with more cooking spray to ensure they get crispy.

                Cook the catfish in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

                  Check for doneness – fish should flake easily with a fork. If necessary, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

                    Once cooked, remove the catfish from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before serving.

                      Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the Spicy Cajun Catfish on a bed of fresh greens or with a side of coleslaw, garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for added color.