Baked Catfish: A Flaky, Flavorful Recipe for Your Oven
Are you looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this simple recipe for baked catfish! This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cleanup, and delivers a flaky, flavorful fish that the whole family will love. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor with simple ingredients and techniques, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs catfish fillets: Choose firm, fresh fillets for the best results. Skin-on or skinless works equally well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to taste, depending on the saltiness of your other ingredients.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
- ½ tsp paprika: Smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: A staple for enhancing savory dishes.
- ¼ tsp onion powder: For added aromatic complexity.
- Lemon wedges: For serving, adding a burst of freshness.
- Fresh parsley: (Optional) For garnish.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Catfish: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
Season the Fish: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour this mixture over the catfish fillets, ensuring they're evenly coated on both sides.
Bake the Catfish: Place the seasoned catfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh parsley (optional). This baked catfish is fantastic on its own, or you can pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Catfish:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the fillets enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the fish. It's ready when it flakes easily without resistance.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or dill for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Add some zest: A little lemon zest incorporated into the seasoning mixture adds a bright, citrusy note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use frozen catfish fillets?
A: Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before baking. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
Q: How do I know if the catfish is cooked through?
A: The catfish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I bake other types of fish using this recipe?
A: Yes! This recipe works well with various firm white fish fillets, such as cod, tilapia, or snapper. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the thickness and type of fish.
This simple yet flavorful baked catfish recipe is a great addition to your weeknight meal rotation. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #BakedCatfishRecipe on social media!
