Go Back
–+ servings
Cajun Baked Catfish

Cajun Baked Catfish: Quick, Zesty Flavor for Dinner Bliss

This Cajun Baked Catfish recipe offers a deliciously lighter alternative to traditional fried catfish, packed with bold flavors and ready in under 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Catfish
  • 4 fillets Catfish Fresh or wild-caught for best flavor
For the Cajun Seasoning Blend
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust cayenne based on heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Provides a sweet, mild taste
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can add extra flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground for brightness
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is ideal
  • 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce Optional, for extra heat
For Baking
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use for richness; can replace with olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Oil for Greasing To prevent sticking

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Dish
  • small bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease your baking dish with oil or butter.
  2. Combine Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and stir until fully blended.
  3. Pat catfish dry and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over both sides. Squeeze lemon juice on top and optionally drizzle with hot sauce. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Place seasoned catfish in the greased baking dish and dot with butter or drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork and edges are crispy.
  6. Let the catfish rest for a couple of minutes before serving with your favorite sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 30gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 600mgVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Marinate for 15 minutes for maximum flavor. Use a cast iron skillet for a crispy crust. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!