Spicy Cajun Buttered Catfish

Overview

This Cajun-style fillet of catfish with spicy butter sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances Cajun spices with a zesty butter sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 catfish fillets
• 1/2 – 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 sticks of butter, melted
• 12 tbsp fresh lemon juice (divided)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp Tabasco sauce
• 4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp ground cayenne pepper
• 2-4 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 sprig fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh bread crumbs
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Rinse catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.

3. Season each fillet evenly with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and cayenne pepper.

4. Rub oil in a 9×13-inch glass baking dish to prevent sticking.

5. Arrange seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish.

6. Top each fillet with 4 tablespoons of melted butter.

7. Sprinkle fresh bread crumbs over the fillets and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.

8. Bake the fillets, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook.

9. Prepare the Butter Sauce:

   • In a saucepan, combine the remaining melted butter, remaining fresh lemon juice, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ground cayenne pepper, green onions, thyme, and basil.
   • Simmer the sauce over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all flavors are well combined and the sauce slightly thickens.

10. Serve:

    • Transfer the baked catfish fillets to a serving dish.
    • Spoon the prepared butter sauce generously over the fillets.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 535.3
• Total Fat: 40.6g
  • Saturated Fat: 18.2g
• Cholesterol: 135.8mg
• Sodium: 594.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 14.6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1.7g
• Protein: 27.5g

Tips for Success

• For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Fresh herbs really enhance the flavors, but if unavailable, use half the amount of dried herbs.
• Ensure not to overcook the catfish fillets to keep them tender and moist.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or rice to complete the meal.

Enjoy this Cajun-style catfish dish with its bold flavors and comforting butter sauce, perfect for any occasion when you crave a taste of Louisiana cuisine at home!