Pan Fried Catfish

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This recipe for Pan-Fried Catfish is a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender and flaky catfish. It’s easy to make and easy to customize making it a family favorite even your kids will enjoy.

Pan-fried catfish fillets stacked on a plate with a fork upside down on the side of the plate.

Have you ever tried catfish pan-fried? Even if you don’t eat a lot of seafood, this pan-fried catfish is a must-try. It’s simple yet so versatile. You can enjoy it with a variety of seasonings, marinades, sauces, and side dishes — the sky is the limit.

The flavor of catfish is similar to cod or tilapia so it doesn’t have a strong “fishy” flavor. I am used to having deep-fried catfish but this is one of the best recipes for pan-fried catfish that has no breading. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers so you can enjoy it for another easy dinner or a nutritious lunch.

There are many ways to enjoy catfish including Easy Catfish Tacos and Smoked Catfish.

Why You Will Love This Pan-Fried Catfish Recipe

Ready in 10 minutes. This is the perfect simple dinner for when you’re busy or not in the mood to cook.
Freezer friendly. The pan-fried catfish keeps well in the freezer so you can enjoy it for another meal.
Customizable recipe. Switch the seasonings and add a marinade for a whole new flavor profile.

Ingredients

To make pan-seared catfish filets, all you need are catfish and spices! Look at the recipe card below to find the measurements needed.

Catfish: Use fresh or frozen catfish filets. If frozen, defrost in the refrigerator before cooking. Catfish does not have a strong fish flavor which makes it perfect for a variety of cuisines.
Salt and pepper: I add salt and pepper to almost any dish to ensure that it has plenty of flavor.
Lemon pepper: I use lemon pepper as well for a subtle lemon flavor to complement the fish.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

Variations

Looking to try some different flavors for your pan-fried catfish? Here are a few ideas for some inspiration!

Jamaican Jerk: Use your favorite jerk seasoning blend and create a bold and spicy rub for the pan-seared catfish.
Herb and Citrus: Marinate the catfish in lemon, lime, or even orange juice for a refreshing zing. Add fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or cilantro. Citrus and fish are a classic pairing!
Teriyaki: Glaze the catfish filets with your favorite teriyaki sauce for a sweet, umami flavor bomb.
Butter and Garlic: Cook the pan-seared catfish in butter and fresh garlic for a simple, rich flavor.
Spicy: Add a bit of chili pepper flakes, smoked jalapeno powder, or chipotle powder to your spice mixture for a bit of heat.

How to Make Pan-Fried Catfish

Here are the instructions on how to make pan-fried catfish.

Seasoning the catfish fillets in a skillet.

Step 1: Season the catfish. Generously sprinkle the seasonings on each side of the catfish filets.

Step 2: Pan-fry the catfish. Place the catfish into the hot skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil or butter. Cook for 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and flaky.

Step 3: Serve. Enjoy this pan-seared catfish recipe with your favorite side dish.

Two pieces of pan-fried catfish on a white platter with parsley and lemon.

⭐️ Hint: You may also cut the catfish into bite-sized pieces and make pan-fried catfish nuggets.

If you love recipes like this, you may also enjoy Baked Catfish No Breading, Crispy Cod Sandwich or Best Catfish Sandwich.

Storage Tips

Storing: Store leftover pan-seared catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freeze the cooked catfish filets in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat in a skillet or at 350 degrees F in the air fryer or oven.

Serving Suggestions

Tasty green vegetables are a great accompaniment to any meal, especially catfish. Try making Classic Green Bean Casserole, Southern Collard Greens, or even Grilled Asparagus with your delicious pan-seared catfish.
You can never go wrong with The Best Fried Tomatoes. It pairs well with the flavor of catfish.
Try Mashed Potato Fries as an easy and tasty kid-friendly side.
Turn Easy Rosemary Macaroni and Cheese or Skillet Mac and Cheese with Bacon. Cut the filets into catfish nuggets and enjoy pan-fried alongside the mac!

Tips

Add flour. You can choose to make this pan-fried catfish with flour if you choose. Lightly coat the filets in flour after seasoning and pan-fry until golden brown. The flour will add a crispy texture to the outside.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you decide to increase this recipe, do not overcrowd the pan to ensure that the filets cook evenly and get nice color on both sides.
Skin vs. no skin. If you purchase catfish with the skin on, you can leave it on if you wish. Sear the skin side down to ensure it gets nice and crispy before flipping.
Rest the cooked fish. Allow the catfish to rest for 5-10 minutes to ensure maximum juiciness before serving.

Recipe FAQs

Do I use butter or oil when making pan-seared catfish?

You can use either when you make this pan-fried catfish though you may find butter burns a bit easier since it has a lower smoke point. Vegetable oil, olive oil, or even avocado oil will work great. I often like a bit of oil along with butter to keep it from burning. Just a pat of butter with a bit of oil or a tablespoon of oil should be enough to grease the skillet.

What type of pan should I use to pan-fry catfish?

I recommend a non-stick skillet or cast iron. I like to use cast iron to get a nice, hard sear.

How long do I cook the catfish filets?

Each side should be cooked just long enough to slightly brown. At medium heat, this will take approximately 4 minutes. Once the fish is tender and flakes easily with a fork, it’s cooked to perfection.

Pan-fried catfish on a plate garnished with parsley and served with lemon wedges.

More Delicious Seafood Recipes

Do you like cooking and serving seafood for meals? Here are some recipes you may also like to try.

Ready to get cooking? Remember that you can print this recipe if you would like.