Air Fryer Catfish

Air Fryer Catfish is a southern staple that results in crispy, salty, flaky fish! Air fried catfish is super easy and great any day of the week!

Is there anything better than fried catfish? But who has time to stand over a hot stove frying fish? Not me!

That’s where the air fryer comes in. With its high-powered fan and intense heat, the air fryer can turn out perfectly crispy catfish without all the mess and hassle of traditional frying. Give this easy catfish in the air fryer recipe a try for your next dinner party!

As you all know by now, I am a huge fan of cooking seafood. It just has this amazing flavor and texture that is hard to beat. I couldn’t wait to try my hand at cooking catfish in the air fryer and let me tell you, this little appliance did not disappoint.

A few more seafood recipes you will adore are my Air Fryer Swai Fish, Air Fryer Snapper, and Air Fryer Grouper. YUM!

Why You’ll Love Air Fried Catfish

• Tender and delicious every time
• Perfect for dinner parties
• Kids love this catfish air fryer recipe
• Adults love air fried catfish too
• Step by step directions make it so simple

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Catfish

• Catfish: Grab a couple of catfish fillets roughly the same size.
• Fish Fry Batter: I used Louisiana Mix Fish Fry Seasoning

How To Make Air Fryer Catfish

Step 1: Batter catfish

Pour the batter into a large sealable bag. Place your fish inside the bag and shake a few times (make sure you seal the bag first.)

Step 2: Place catfish in the air fryer

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

Step 3: Air fry catfish

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Catfish?

Catfish is a type of fish found in many parts of the world. It’s a mild-tasting fish that can be cooked in many different ways. Catfish is a popular choice for seafood lovers and is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

And, of course, there is nothing better than air fried catfish! Cooking catfish in the air fryer or even air fryer catfish nuggets are amazing!

Is this catfish air fryer recipe crispy?

YES! Some cooks like to fry catfish in a vat of oil, while others prefer to bake or grill it. If you’re looking for a new way to prepare catfish, you might want to try air frying it.

Air frying is a healthy cooking method that uses hot air instead of oil to cook food. It’s a great way to cook delicate foods like fish without making them greasy. You’ll still need some oil to make air fried catfish, but not as much as frying in a skillet.

Is Catfish In The Air Fryer Good For You

Yes! Seafood is essential; it’s a great source of protein without a lot of fat. What makes it healthy is how it’s cooked and what you use to serve with it. When you air fry catfish, it’s much healthier than other methods of cooking.

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 wish.

If you reach for a different type of fish, 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 this catfish air fryer dish 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 suggest getting one. That is the safest way to know when the fish is fully cooked. Eating raw fish can make you sick.

Why Do Some People Soak Their Catfish in Milk?

Milk and fish work well, as soaking fish in milk before cooking reduces 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 also help to plump the fish up, giving you an ultra-rich and delicious fish. You can simply air fry catfish as directed below and you are all set for incredible fish!

What To Serve With Fried Catfish In The Air Fryer

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

How To Make This A Gluten-Free Recipe

Go ahead and reach for a gluten-free breading to use. If you pick one 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 with 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 crisp up the way you want.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Catfish Filets

I 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

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