Air Fryer Catfish

Air Fryer Catfish--Serve up air fried catfish in under 30 minutes! This air fryer catfish has a seasoned breading that you toss right into your air fryer for that golden fish you know and love. Quick, simple, and great to use for store-bought or man caught out of your local fishing hole.

Being from Boston, my uncles were all fishermen. Therefore, I was treated to a LOT of seafood over the years. There was absolutely nothing better than my uncles dropping off the days’ catch to my mom, who would almost make something amazing. I remember my uncle’s dropping off baby lobsters because no one would buy them, now we all know them as chicken lobsters, and if they were free, there would be a line around the block to get them.

Air Fryer Catfish

My husband grew up as a good old midwestern boy, but he vacationed every year at Cape Cod, where he ate his share of great seafood.

When I moved to Ohio after we got married, I noticed that the seafood was different, they didn’t have lobsters, they had crab legs, and I literally remember going through the supermarket and saying, what are those? They just looked like something that came from outer space. Instead of cod, they ate salmon.

I have never had salmon, so it was an acquired taste, my mother in law made the best salmon that I have ever had. I will probably be making it in the next couple of weeks. She served it with a creamy dill dip that even my son would eat (granted he would eat it without the salmon, but he would finish his bowl, LOL).

How To Make Air Fryer CatfishThis is the batter I used in this recipe.

Pour the batter into a large sealable bag.

Place your fish inside the bag and then shake a few times (make sure you seal the bag first)

As your coat your fish, place them either on a greased air fryer basket or air fryer tray.

Set the temperature to 400 degrees F for 8 minutes. After 8 minutes, flip and air fry for another 8 minutes. The key to the golden brown is to coat your batter with olive oil generously; it will crisp up nicely. (air fryer setting)

Is Fish Good For You

Seafood is important; it’s a great source of protein without a lot of fat. It hits most of the marks, gluten-free, low carb, and other diets. If you enjoy the flavors from the sea, then give this fish recipe a try.

Can I Use A Different Variety Of Fish

Any white fish or rockfish will work for this recipe. Go right ahead and whip it up with the fish you have on hand. If you want, you can change up the breading with a different seasoning if you want.

If you reach for a different type of fish, just know that cooking can vary slightly. So, always use your judgment and cook your fish until it is fully cooked. Then serve up with your favorite side dishes.

How to Know When Catfish Is Done

You will know when your catfish is done when it is white and opaque. The internal temperature needs to reach 145 degrees. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, I do suggest getting one. That is the safest way for you to know when the fish is fully cooked. Eating raw fish can make you sick.

Is air-fried fish healthy?

Air fried fish is a healthy alternative to deep-fried fish. But you have to take into consideration what you use to bread the fish. In moderation, it is, of course, a great dinner or lunch option for you and your family.

Why do some recipes soak fish in milk?

Milk and fish work well, as soaking fish in milk before cooking to reduce the fish flavor. It will provide a more mellow flavor. If you prefer not to eat strong fish, soak in milk or even buttermilk to help pull flavor from the fish.

The buttermilk will help to plump the fish up as well giving you an ultra-rich and delicious fish. You can soak fish and then go on to do this exact recipe if you prefer.

What do you dip fish in?

Tartar sauce is a great option for you to dip in the fish. Other people find drizzling with fresh lemon juice or even white distilled vinegar to help bring out the fish’s flavor. Feel free to try a new method or reach for your favorite.

In terms of tartar sauce, it is really easy to make yourself or buy a jar at the store.

Can I make this air-fried fish gluten-free?

Go ahead and reach for a gluten-free breading to use. If you pick one that you enjoy, go right ahead and swap it out. You can use the same breading method and cooking time. Spritzing the outside of any dry breading will help provide it a golden texture and crisp up the breading as it should be.

If you don’t use oil, it will look a bit dry and not really crisp up the way you want.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH AIR FRYER FRIED FISH?

I personally love a great big salad with mine, but if you are looking for an alternative, here are some of my favorites–

• AIR FRYER TGIF FRIDAY’S GREEN BEAN FRIES
• AIR FRYER STEAK FRIES
• EASY AIR FRYER MACARONI AND CHEESE BALLS
• THE BEST AND EASIEST AIR FRYER FRENCH FRIES RECIPE

SOME HELPFUL PRODUCTS USED WHILE MAKING THIS RECIPE-

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

INSTANT VORTEX AIR FRYER 4 IN 1 

DON’T FORGET TO PIN AIR FRYER CATFISH-

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