Description

This Cajun Blackened Catfish recipe brings bold and smoky flavors to tender catfish fillets coated with a vibrant blend of Cajun spices and cooked in sizzling melted butter. The blackening technique creates a deliciously charred crust while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside. Perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with simple sides and delivers authentic Southern flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Spice Mix

1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme

Main Ingredients

4 (4-ounce) catfish fillets, skinned
¾ cup unsalted butter

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Instructions

Prepare the Spice Mix: In a shallow bowl, combine kosher salt, ground black pepper, ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, dried oregano, and dried thyme to form the blackening seasoning blend.
Coat the Catfish: Press each catfish fillet firmly into the spice mixture, making sure both sides are thoroughly coated with the Cajun spice blend for maximum flavor.
Melt the Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a bowl, setting aside some for cooking the catfish and reserving the rest to drizzle over the finished fillets.
Preheat Cast Iron Skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until it is very hot and almost smoking. Add about ¼ cup of the melted butter to the skillet to prepare for cooking. Note that this dish will produce smoke due to the blackening technique, so cook outdoors or ensure good ventilation.
Cook the Catfish: Place the seasoned catfish fillets in the hot buttered skillet. Cook each side for approximately 3 minutes or until the spices create a dark, blackened crust and the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Remove the catfish from the skillet and drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top for a rich, buttery finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated or cook outdoors due to smoke produced during blackening.
Use a cast iron skillet for best results as it retains heat well and helps achieve the characteristic blackened crust.
Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness level to your preference.
Serve with rice, greens, or crusty bread to balance the bold flavors.
The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of fillets; cook until fish flakes easily.