Perfect Air Fryer Cajun Catfish Recipe
This Cajun Air Fryer Catfish recipe delivers authentic Southern flavors with a crispy cornmeal coating in just 20 minutes. After testing different methods, I’ve found the air fryer creates perfectly golden catfish that’s crunchy outside and moist inside—without the heaviness of deep frying.
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets (thin, about 5–6 oz each)
- ¾ cup fine yellow cornmeal
- 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooking spray (for basket)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Spicy Tartar Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Notes:
- Substitute tilapia, haddock, or cod if catfish isn’t available.
- For a lighter sauce, swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
- Use fine cornmeal for a thinner, crispier crust.
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Pat catfish fillets dry with paper towels.
- Combine cornmeal and Cajun seasoning in a large resealable bag. Add two fillets at a time, shake to coat, then repeat with remaining fish.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange fillets in a single layer, leaving space for air circulation.
- Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- If additional browning is desired, increase to 400°F (205°C) and cook for 3–5 more minutes.
- While fish cooks, mix all tartar sauce ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until serving.
- Serve catfish hot with lemon wedges and spicy tartar sauce.
Visual cues: The coating should be golden brown and crisp, while the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Air Fryer Settings & Tips for Catfish
Temperature & Timing Guide
- Thin fillets (½ inch): 12–15 minutes at 390°F (200°C).
- Medium fillets (¾ inch): 15–18 minutes at 390°F (200°C).
- Thicker fillets (1 inch+): 18–20 minutes at 390°F (200°C), with final 2–3 minutes at 400°F (205°C).
- Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—2 fillets at a time ensures even crisping.
- Pat fish completely dry before coating to help cornmeal stick.
- For spicier catfish, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mix.
- Spray basket, not fish—this prevents soggy spots.
- If fish looks pale, cook 2–3 more minutes at 400°F (205°C).
Serving & Storage for Cajun Air Fryer Catfish
Best Pairings
- Classic: Coleslaw, hush puppies, cornbread.
- Fresh: Sliced tomatoes, cucumber salad, lemon wedges.
- Sauces: Cajun tartar sauce, remoulade, or hot honey drizzle for a twist.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Air Fryer Fries: Ready in 15 minutes, perfect to cook alongside catfish.
- Air Fryer Okra: Crispy Southern pairing that complements Cajun flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Coat with Cajun butter and cook in the air fryer for 10 minutes.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap cooled fillets individually and freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 5–6 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving—it makes coating soggy.
Conclusion
This Cajun Air Fryer Catfish recipe proves you don’t need a deep fryer to enjoy crispy Southern catfish. With simple cornmeal seasoning and just 20 minutes, you’ll have golden fillets that are lighter, healthier, and every bit as flavorful as traditional fried fish.
