Are you a fan of catfish? Do you love the taste and flaky texture, but find traditional cooking methods like frying or baking a bit bland? Look no further! Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook catfish, allowing us to achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious air fryer catfish recipes that will satisfy your cravings.
From spicy tacos to decadent parmesan crusts, our collection of air fryer catfish recipes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and bold, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering dishes that will make your taste buds dance.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of air fryer catfish recipes and discover a whole new level of flavor and fun!
Air Fryer Cajun Catfish
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional catfish with this spicy and savory recipe that yields a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the catfish fillets with lemon juice and sprinkle with the spice mixture.
4. Place the catfish fillets in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Southern-Style Air Fryer Catfish
A twist on traditional catfish, this Southern-style air fryer recipe gives you crispy, flavorful fish with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil spray
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet in buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Spray both sides of the coated catfish with vegetable oil spray.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Herb Air Fryer Catfish
Experience the perfect balance of tangy and savory with this simple and flavorful catfish recipe, all thanks to the magic of air frying. By combining the brightness of lemon juice with the pungency of herbs, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and dill.
3. Place catfish fillets in the dish, turning them to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Remove catfish from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Cook catfish in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Air Fryer Catfish Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy air fryer catfish recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend fiesta. This twist on traditional tacos combines crispy catfish, creamy slaw, and bold spices in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lime wedges, cilantro, and diced avocado for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish pieces in the spice mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Air fry catfish for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing catfish on a tortilla, topping with slaw and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Air Fryer Catfish
Garlic Butter Air Fryer Catfish: A Delicious Twist on a Southern Classic!
This recipe combines the flaky goodness of catfish with the richness of garlic butter, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the catfish fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Place the catfish fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each catfish fillet.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and crispy take on traditional catfish nuggets with this simple recipe for the Air Fryer. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized nuggets
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish nugget into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Spray the Air Fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
5. Place the coated catfish nuggets in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Catfish
Experience the perfect blend of crunchy breading and tender catfish with this easy-to-make air fryer recipe. This Parmesan crusted delight is a game-changer for seafood lovers!
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season catfish fillets with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each catfish fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded catfish fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Blackened Catfish
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and crispy air fryer recipe. With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously blackened catfish dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the catfish fillets with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the blackening seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Place the catfish in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Asian Glazed Air Fryer Catfish
Asian Glazed Air Fryer Catfish Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and crispy catfish dish with an Asian-inspired glaze, all thanks to the power of air frying!
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Asian-style glaze (mix of soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse catfish fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients. Brush both sides of the catfish with olive oil, then apply the glaze.
4. Place catfish in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish Po’ Boy
Get ready to experience a twist on the classic Louisiana sandwich with this air fryer catfish po’ boy recipe. Crispy and flavorful, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cups tartar sauce, for serving
– 4 po’ boy rolls
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet in lemon juice, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Air fry catfish for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing catfish on po’ boy rolls, topping with tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Coconut Crusted Air Fryer Catfish
A flavorful and crispy twist on traditional catfish, this recipe uses the power of air frying to seal in moisture and add a delightful crunch. With a hint of tropical flavor from shredded coconut, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a seafood lover’s indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated catfish in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish with Mango Salsa
Transform your catfish into a flavorful and crunchy treat using the Air Fryer! This recipe combines the crispy texture of breaded fish with the sweet and tangy flavors of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs with paprika.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fish in the Air Fryer basket; cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Mango Salsa (recipe above) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Old Bay Air Fryer Catfish
Elevate your catfish game with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of Old Bay seasoning and the crispiness of air frying. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Old Bay seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the Old Bay mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the coated catfish fillets into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded catfish in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through and the breading is crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish and Chips
Get ready for a delicious twist on traditional fish and chips! This recipe uses the air fryer to cook catfish fillets to perfection, with crispy breading and a side of golden brown fries.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Cook catfish in batches for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
5. Meanwhile, cook potatoes in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve catfish with chips and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Lime Air Fryer Catfish
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your catfish with this easy and flavorful air fryer recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the lime marinade over them. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove the catfish from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Cook the catfish in batches if necessary, depending on the size of your air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish Parmesan
Elevate your catfish game with this easy and flavorful recipe that yields crispy, golden-brown results without the need for deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each catfish fillet in beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated catfish in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Catfish
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and crispy air-fried catfish recipe, infused with the smokiness of paprika. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the catfish fillets in a single layer on the air fryer basket. Brush both sides with the paprika mixture.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish with Remoulade Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this mouth-watering air fryer catfish recipe, perfectly paired with a tangy remoulade sauce. This dish is a game-changer for any seafood lover!
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Brush olive oil on both sides of the catfish.
5. Place catfish fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish Stuffed with Crab
This recipe combines the flaky goodness of catfish with the sweetness of crab, all wrapped up in a crispy air-fried package. Perfect for seafood lovers and those looking for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together crab meat, olive oil, lemon zest, and paprika.
3. Place a catfish fillet on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture onto the center of the fish.
4. Fold the fish over the filling to form a compact square or rectangle. Repeat with remaining fillets.
5. Place the stuffed catfish in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through and crispy. Shake halfway through cooking.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Catfish with Avocado Crema
Elevate your catfish game with this easy and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The air fryer gives the fish a crispy exterior while keeping it tender and juicy inside.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp sour cream
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Dip each catfish fillet in the buttermilk mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated fish in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix diced avocado with lime juice and sour cream.
6. Serve the air-fried catfish with Avocado Crema spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy, flavorful world of catfish recipes with this collection of air fryer delights! From classic Southern-style dishes to international-inspired flavors, these 20 recipes showcase the versatility and mouthwatering goodness of catfish. With options like Cajun-spiced, lemon-herb marinated, spicy tacos, garlic butter-topped, and parmesan-crusted, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a quick and easy meal, these air fryer catfish recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
