Description
Fried Catfish Nuggets are a delightful and comforting dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering. These crispy, bite-sized nuggets are packed with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of herbs and spices. Coated in a light flour-cornmeal breading, they create a satisfying crunch with each bite. Ideal for game day snacks, family dinners, or potlucks, this recipe is quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—and sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce for an irresistible treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900g) catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼–½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup cornmeal
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Thaw and pat dry the catfish fillets, then cut them into uniform 1-inch chunks.
- In a bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, Creole seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Season the catfish pieces with about 2 teaspoons of this mixture.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked buttermilk and eggs, and another with seasoned cornmeal.
- Dredge each fish nugget in flour, dip in the buttermilk mixture, then coat in seasoned cornmeal.
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat (around 350℉/177℃). Fry nuggets in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 3 nuggets (85g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg