Top 27 Catfish Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Cooking catfish in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this flavorful and versatile fish without the need for excessive oil. Catfish, known for its mild taste and tender flesh, lends itself perfectly to air frying, resulting in a crispy exterior and moist interior. Whether you prefer classic Southern flavors or crave a more exotic twist, there’s a catfish air fryer recipe to suit every palate. In this article, we’ll explore 27 mouthwatering catfish air fryer recipes that are easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy.

Top 27 Catfish Air Fryer Recipes

1. Classic Southern Fried Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Coat each catfish fillet in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the catfish is golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and lemon wedges.

2. Cajun Blackened Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Rub Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides of the catfish fillets.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Brush olive oil on the bottom of the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the seasoned catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is blackened and cooked through.
  6. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.

3. Parmesan Crusted Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat each catfish fillet in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the catfish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Serve hot with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.

4. Lemon Herb Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Garnish with lemon slices before serving.

5. Coconut Crusted Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, combine shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat each catfish fillet in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the catfish is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve hot with a sweet chili dipping sauce.

6. Spicy Sriracha Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

7. Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Brush the mustard glaze over both sides of the catfish fillets.
  4. Place the catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and lightly browned.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

8. Lime Chili Catfish Tacos

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Zest and juice of 2 limes
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • Sliced avocado, shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and cilantro for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Warm the corn tortillas in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Assemble the tacos with catfish, sliced avocado, shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and cilantro.
  8. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce.

9. Sesame Ginger Glazed Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

10. Greek Style Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and lightly browned.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
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11. Buffalo Style Catfish Strips

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets, cut into strips
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Blue cheese dressing for dipping
  • Celery sticks for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish strips in a shallow dish and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish strips from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and crispy.
  6. Serve hot with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

12. Jerk Spiced Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sliced scallions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rub jerk seasoning evenly over both sides of the catfish fillets.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  7. Garnish with sliced scallions before serving.

13. Miso Glazed Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup white miso paste
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together white miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

14. Tandoori Spiced Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons tandoori spice blend
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, tandoori spice blend, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and lightly charred.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

15. Chili Lime Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • Zest and juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

16. Mediterranean Style Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped Kalamata olives for garnish
  • Crumbled feta cheese for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and lightly browned.
  6. Garnish with chopped Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese before serving.

17. Garlic Butter Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Brush the garlic butter mixture over both sides of the catfish fillets.
  4. Place the catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and lightly browned.
  6. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing.

18. Herb Crusted Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh chives, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat each catfish fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the catfish is golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Serve hot with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.

19. Asian Style Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
  2. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and lightly browned.
  6. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

20. Creole Style Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rub Creole seasoning evenly over both sides of the catfish fillets.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, diced bell pepper, diced onion, and diced celery. Cook until vegetables are softened.
  4. Place the seasoned catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  5. Spoon the cooked vegetables over the catfish fillets.
  6. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
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21. Italian Style Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Marinara sauce for serving
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat each catfish fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the catfish is golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Serve hot with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.

22. Pecan Crusted Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, combine chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat each catfish fillet in the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the catfish is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve hot with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.

23. Lemon Pepper Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the lemon pepper mixture over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Garnish with lemon slices before serving.

24. Ranch Seasoned Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rub ranch seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the catfish fillets.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Brush olive oil over the catfish fillets and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the catfish fillets in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

25. Sweet And Spicy Catfish

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

26. Bacon Wrapped Catfish Bites

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 slices bacon, cut in half
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Toothpicks

Instructions:

  1. Season each catfish bite with salt and pepper.
  2. Wrap each catfish bite with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Place the bacon-wrapped catfish bites in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the catfish is cooked through.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

27. Cornmeal Crusted Catfish Nuggets

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat each catfish nugget in the cornmeal mixture, shaking off any excess.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. Place the coated catfish nuggets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping.
  6. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the catfish nuggets are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve hot with tartar sauce or ketchup.

Catfish air fryer recipes offer a healthier and more convenient way to enjoy this delicious fish. With the versatility of air frying, you can easily experiment with different flavors and seasonings to create a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Whether you prefer classic Southern recipes or crave more exotic flavors, these 27 catfish air fryer recipes are sure to please your taste buds. So fire up your air fryer and start cooking up some crispy and flavorful catfish delights today!

Top 10 Global Flavors

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking by providing a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. With its rapid air circulation technology, it produces crispy and golden-brown results without the need for excessive oil. When it comes to catfish, the air fryer offers a hassle-free way to achieve perfectly cooked fillets with minimal effort.

Catfish is prized for its mild flavor and firm texture, making it an ideal canvas for a wide array of seasonings and sauces. Whether you prefer classic Southern flavors or want to experiment with global cuisines, there’s a catfish air fryer recipe to suit every palate.

1. Cajun Style Catfish

Ingredients: Cajun seasoning, cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper

Cajun-style catfish is a classic Southern dish that packs a punch of flavor. Simply coat the catfish fillets in a mixture of Cajun seasoning, cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper, then air fry until crispy and golden brown. Serve with a side of remoulade sauce for an authentic Louisiana experience.

2. Lemon Herb Catfish

Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, thyme, parsley, olive oil

For a light and refreshing option, try lemon herb catfish. Marinate the fillets in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped thyme, parsley, and olive oil, then air fry until tender and flaky. Garnish with additional lemon slices for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

3. Teriyaki Glazed Catfish

Ingredients: Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic

Give your catfish an Asian-inspired twist with a teriyaki glaze. Combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and garlic in a bowl, then brush it onto the fillets before air frying. The result is a sweet and savory dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

4. Mediterranean Style Catfish

Ingredients: Olive oil, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, garlic, olives, cherry tomatoes

Transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean with this flavorful catfish recipe. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and minced garlic. Add olives and cherry tomatoes to the air fryer basket for a burst of freshness. Serve with a side of couscous or quinoa for a complete meal.

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5. Spicy Korean Catfish

Ingredients: Gochujang paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, green onions

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fiery spices, and this spicy catfish recipe is no exception. Mix together gochujang paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chopped green onions to create a sticky glaze. Coat the catfish fillets in the sauce and air fry until caramelized and delicious. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

6. Coconut Curry Catfish

Ingredients: Coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, cilantro, bell peppers

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of coconut curry with this mouthwatering catfish recipe. Combine coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and lime juice in a bowl to create a fragrant sauce. Pour the sauce over the catfish fillets and add sliced bell peppers to the air fryer basket. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for a taste of Thailand.

7. Tex-Mex Blackened Catfish

Ingredients: Blackening seasoning, lime juice, avocado, salsa, cilantro

Tex-Mex cuisine meets Southern comfort food in this flavorful catfish recipe. Rub the fillets with blackening seasoning and a squeeze of lime juice before air frying until blackened and crispy. Serve with sliced avocado, salsa, and chopped cilantro for a vibrant and satisfying meal.

8. Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish

Ingredients: Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, thyme, lemon

For a sweet and tangy twist on traditional catfish, try this honey mustard glazed recipe. Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced thyme, and lemon juice in a bowl. Brush the glaze onto the fillets and air fry until caramelized and golden brown. Pair with roasted vegetables for a deliciously balanced meal.

9. Indian Spiced Catfish

Ingredients: Garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, yogurt, mint chutney

Explore the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with this aromatic catfish recipe. Mix together garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and yogurt to create a fragrant marinade. Coat the catfish fillets in the marinade and air fry until tender and flaky. Serve with a dollop of mint chutney for a refreshing contrast.

10. Japanese Panko Crusted Catfish

Ingredients: Panko breadcrumbs, Japanese mayo, rice vinegar, soy sauce, mirin

Give your catfish a crunchy coating with Japanese panko breadcrumbs in this delicious recipe. Mix together Japanese mayo, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and mirin to create a tangy dipping sauce. Coat the catfish fillets in panko breadcrumbs and air fry until crispy and golden brown. Serve with the dipping sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe

Among the plethora of catfish air fryer recipes, one stands out as a personal favorite – Cajun Style Catfish. The combination of bold Cajun spices and crispy cornmeal coating never fails to tantalize the taste buds. Paired with a creamy remoulade sauce and a side of coleslaw, it’s a quintessential Southern comfort food experience that never disappoints.

Cajun Style Catfish Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Remoulade sauce, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each catfish fillet in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  4. Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the catfish is crispy and golden brown.
  6. Serve hot with remoulade sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

Mastering the art of air fryer cooking requires a bit of finesse and know-how. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you achieve perfect results every time:

  1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with traditional ovens, preheating your air fryer ensures that the food cooks evenly and crisps up properly.

  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal air circulation and crispiness, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook food in batches if necessary.

  3. Use Oil Sparingly: While the air fryer requires less oil than traditional frying methods, a light coating of oil can help enhance flavor and promote browning.

  4. Flip or Shake Halfway Through: To ensure even cooking, flip or shake the food halfway through the cooking process. This helps to achieve uniform crispiness on all sides.

  5. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and sauces. From classic herbs and spices to international flavors, the possibilities are endless.

  6. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of meats and seafood to ensure they are fully cooked. For catfish, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

  7. Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly: To maintain optimal performance and prevent lingering odors, clean your air fryer regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

In today’s fast-paced world, time-saving strategies are invaluable for busy cooks. Here are some tips to streamline your air fryer cooking experience:

  1. Prep Ingredients in Advance: Spend some time prepping ingredients, such as marinating meats or chopping vegetables, ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until ready to use.

  2. Utilize Frozen Foods: Take advantage of frozen foods, such as pre-seasoned fish fillets or chicken tenders, which can be cooked directly from frozen in the air fryer. This eliminates the need for thawing and reduces prep time.

  3. Batch Cooking: Cook large batches of food in the air fryer and store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week. This is especially useful for busy weeknights when time is limited.

  4. Meal Planning: Plan your meals for the week ahead of time and incorporate air fryer recipes into your menu. This helps streamline grocery shopping and ensures you have everything you need on hand.

  5. Multi-Tasking: While your main dish is cooking in the air fryer, utilize other kitchen appliances to prepare side dishes or salads. This allows you to maximize efficiency and get dinner on the table faster.

Conclusion

In conclusion, catfish air fryer recipes offer a convenient and healthy way to enjoy this versatile fish. Whether you prefer classic Southern flavors or want to explore global cuisines, there’s a recipe to suit every taste. By following essential tips and time-saving strategies, you can master the art of air fryer cooking and create delicious meals with ease. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy crispy, golden-brown catfish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.