Tennessee Fried Catfish

Crispy, golden, and full of bold Southern flavor, Tennessee Fried Catfish is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. This classic recipe features tender catfish fillets marinated in a zesty buttermilk and hot sauce mixture, then coated in a perfectly seasoned blend of yellow cornmeal and spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder for irresistible crunch. Deep-fried to a golden perfection, these fillets are served hot with fresh lemon wedges, adding a bright zing to every bite. Ideal for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish pairs beautifully with traditional sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or hush puppies. Quick to prepare yet packed with authentic Southern charm, Tennessee Fried Catfish will make your taste buds sing with every crispy, flavorful bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces catfish fillets
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups vegetable oil
• 1 whole lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1

Pour the buttermilk into a shallow dish and stir in the hot sauce. Submerge the catfish fillets in the buttermilk mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for extra flavor).

Step 2

In another shallow dish, combine yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the breading.

Step 3

Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to ensure the catfish will be submerged.

Step 4

Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk mixture, one at a time, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the fillets in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coating.

Step 5

Carefully lower the breaded fillets into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden-brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C).

Step 6

Transfer the fried catfish fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7

Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or hush puppies for an authentic Southern meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2234.4 grams (2234.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8943

Total Fat 871.70g	1118%
Saturated Fat 133.00g	665%
Polyunsaturated Fat 538.60g
Cholesterol 334mg	111%
Sodium 3812mg	166%
Total Carbohydrate 249.90g	91%
Dietary Fiber 19.20g	69%
Total Sugars 28.10g
Protein 114.30g	229%

Vitamin D 254IU	1269%
Calcium 678mg	52%
Iron 12mg	69%
Potassium 2458mg	52%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 84.3%

Protein: 4.9%

Carbs: 10.7%