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Cajun Baked Catfish

Cajun Baked Catfish: Easy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Dinner

Cajun Baked Catfish is a quick, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Louisiana to your table in under 35 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Catfish
  • 1 pound Catfish Fillets Fresh is best; can be swapped with thawed frozen catfish.
  • 3 tablespoons Cold Butter Substitute with plant butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Marinade
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed adds acidity and brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Crystal Hot Sauce Adjust quantity based on spice preference.
  • Salt Essential seasoning to taste.
  • Black Pepper Essential seasoning to taste.
  • Cayenne Pepper Essential seasoning to taste.
For the Seasoning Blend
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds color and mild flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Flakes Provides a hint of earthiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Contributes depth and umami.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Contributes depth and umami.
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Enhances the lemon flavor without adding moisture.

Equipment

  • 12-inch cast iron skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Baked Catfish
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Arrange catfish fillets in the greased skillet, spaced evenly to allow heat circulation.
  3. Pour half of the lemon juice over each catfish fillet.
  4. Drizzle Crystal Hot Sauce evenly over the fillets, adjusting for spice preference.
  5. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over each fillet, then top with half of the remaining seasoning blend.
  6. Dot the fillets with small pieces of cold butter.
  7. If using, sprinkle lemon zest over the fillets.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish easily flakes with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Cajun Baked Catfish is gluten-free and pairs well with a variety of sides. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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