Zesty Cajun Baked Catfish with Lemon Garnish
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this Zesty Cajun Baked Catfish recipe. Spiced to perfection, this dish showcases succulent catfish fillets coated in a crispy cornmeal crust infused with zesty Cajun seasoning. Baked to a beautiful golden brown, this delightful meal enhances the natural taste of fresh fish while adding a robust kick. Serve it alongside some vibrant sides and garnish with fresh lemon wedges for a refreshing finish. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will impress seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts alike!
4
Servings
300
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cornmeal
2 cups (Fine and smooth)
Black Pepper
1 tablespoon (Freshly ground)
Catfish Fillets
8 (3-4 ounce) (Cleaned and patted dry)
Cajun Seasoning
2 tablespoons (Store-bought or homemade)
Butter or Margarine
1/4 cup (Melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by greasing it lightly.
2
In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
3
Take the cleaned and dried catfish fillets and dredge them in the cornmeal mixture, coating each fillet thoroughly.
4
Arrange the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5
Generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the fillets, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
6
Drizzle the melted butter (or margarine) over the seasoned fillets for added richness.
7
Bake the fish in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the fillets turn golden brown and flake easily with a fork.
8
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes.
9
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition Information
17.5g
Fat
27.5g
Carbs
21.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cajun Baked Catfish?
It is a Southern-inspired dish featuring catfish fillets coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust and baked until golden and flaky.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the required oven temperature?
You should preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius.
How long does it take to bake the catfish?
The fish should be baked for approximately 30 minutes.
What are the primary ingredients for the coating?
The coating consists of fine cornmeal, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, the Cajun seasoning gives the fish a robust and zesty kick.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either 1/4 cup of melted butter or margarine.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 300 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 21.25 grams of protein in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 27.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the fat content of the recipe?
Each serving contains 17.5 grams of fat.
What size should the catfish fillets be?
The recipe calls for 8 fillets, each weighing approximately 3 to 4 ounces.
How should I prepare the fish before cooking?
The fillets should be cleaned and patted dry before being dredged in the cornmeal.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
Fresh lemon wedges are recommended to enhance the flavors of the fish.
How do I know when the catfish is finished cooking?
The fish is done when the fillets turn golden brown and flake easily with a fork.
Is this a healthy meal option?
Yes, it is classified as a healthy recipe as the fish is baked rather than deep-fried.
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
While optimized for catfish, other white fish fillets can be used, though cooking times may vary.
What kind of cornmeal should I use?
The recipe suggests using a fine and smooth cornmeal for the best texture.
How much Cajun seasoning is required?
You will need 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning to sprinkle over the fillets.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
Yes, you should grease the baking sheet lightly to prevent the fish from sticking.
Can I use homemade Cajun seasoning?
Yes, you can use either store-bought or your own homemade Cajun spice blend.
Should the butter be melted before use?
Yes, drizzle 1/4 cup of melted butter over the seasoned fillets before baking.
How do I apply the cornmeal to the fish?
You should dredge the cleaned and dried fillets in a shallow dish containing the cornmeal and pepper mixture.
What sides pair well with this catfish?
Vibrant sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad are excellent choices.
Is this dish suitable for family dinners?
Absolutely, it is an easy-to-make meal that is perfect for both gatherings and cozy family dinners.
What is the texture of the finished fish?
The catfish will have a crispy exterior from the cornmeal and a succulent, tender interior.
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning if you prefer a milder flavor.
How should I arrange the fish on the pan?
Place the coated fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Does the recipe require salt?
Most Cajun seasonings already contain salt, but you can adjust seasoning to your preference.
How long should the fish rest after baking?
It is recommended to let the fish rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven.