Catfish Recipe

Trim and Marinate

Rinse and pat dry the catfish fillets. Trim any thin edges so they cook evenly. Place fillets in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them. Add hot sauce if using. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours — this tenderizes and seasons the fish.

Prepare Breading

While fish is marinating, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a wide shallow bowl or plate until evenly combined.

Dredge

Remove a fillet from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the cornmeal mixture, coating both sides completely. Place on a tray and repeat with remaining fillets. For an extra-crispy crust, double-dip by returning the coated fillet to the buttermilk briefly and re-coating in the cornmeal mix.

Heat Oil

Pour oil into a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1/2 inch (about 2–3 cups depending on pan). Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a piece of bread sizzles and browns in about 45–60 seconds.

Fry Fillets

Carefully add fillets in a single layer without overcrowding (work in batches). Fry 3–4 minutes per side for medium-thick fillets, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F/63°C and flesh flakes easily). Adjust heat to maintain oil temperature. Transfer cooked fillets to a wire rack set over a tray or paper towels to drain. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) if needed while frying remaining fillets.

Prepare Toppings and Sauce

While the fish fries, slice the tomato and red onion. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with the juice of half a lemon, 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Toast Buns

Lightly toast the buns cut-side down in a dry skillet or under a broiler until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

Assemble Sandwiches

Spread a generous tablespoon of the lemon mayo on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then a fried catfish fillet, and top the hot fillet with a slice of cheddar so it softens. Add tomato slices, a few onion rings, and 2 pickle slices. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.