Eat Without

Skillet Catfish

Source: USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion

Published by the USDA MyPlate Kitchen library. Read from an archived copy of the source page captured 2025-12-31.

Catfish fillets are coated in a spicy cornmeal rub and pan-fried until browned to perfection. Try substituting with cod or tilapia for delicious variety.

Makes
4 Servings

Ingredients

  • For the cornmeal rub:
  • 1/8 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the catfish:
  • 4 4-ounce catfish filets
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
  • 1 lemon or lime (quartered)

Directions

  1. Make the spice rub. Put the cornmeal, oregano, cayenne pepper, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper on a plate and combine well.
  2. Dredge both sides of the catfish in the spice mixture.
  3. Put the skillet on the stove and turn the heat to high.
  4. When the skillet is hot, add the oil. Add the fish and cook about 4 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked throughout.
  5. Serve right away garnished with lemon or lime wedges.

Notes

Use cod or tilapia instead of catfish. Learn more about: Herbs Lemons Limes

Quoted for reference only, exactly as the source printed it, so check product labels yourself before relying on any of it. The methodology page covers the guarantee, and how a contributor can have their text removed on request.