You’ve likely enjoyed traditional fried catfish but hesitated over the amount of oil required.
Air fryer catfish offers the perfect solution—delivering that satisfying crunch and flavor while cutting fat content by up to 70%.
These nine recipes transform this Southern staple into healthier meals without sacrificing texture or taste.
From classic cornmeal crusts to unexpected coconut coatings, each version maintains the fish’s natural moisture while developing that golden exterior you crave.
Ready to discover how simple this nutritional upgrade can be?
Classic Southern-Style Air Fryer Catfish With Cornmeal Crust
This crispy, golden Southern-style catfish delivers all the crunch and flavor of traditional deep-fried fish but with considerably less oil thanks to the air fryer. The cornmeal coating creates that authentic Southern texture that perfectly complements the mild, slightly sweet flavor of the catfish fillets.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp buttermilk
- Olive oil spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and creates a crispier crust.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
Step 4: Dip each catfish fillet into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated catfish fillets in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 7: Lightly spray the top of the fillets with olive oil spray.
Step 8: Cook for 10-12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 9: Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Lemon Herb Catfish Fillets With Crispy Panko Coating
This light and flavorful air fryer catfish recipe combines the brightness of lemon with aromatic herbs and a crispy panko coating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this healthier alternative to deep-fried catfish delivers all the crunch without the excess oil.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and guarantees crispiness.
Step 3: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Dredge each catfish fillet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the panko herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the breaded fillets in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
Step 6: Spray the tops of the fillets lightly with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
Step 7: Air fry for 10-12 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. No need to flip.
Step 8: Carefully remove the catfish from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes.
Step 9: Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Sugar: 1g
Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
These crispy, spicy catfish nuggets deliver all the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine without the heavy oil of traditional frying.
The air fryer creates perfectly crisp exteriors while keeping the fish tender and juicy inside. Ready in just minutes, these bite-sized morsels make an excellent appetizer or main dish when paired with your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- Olive oil spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and hot sauce until well combined.
Step 4: Pat the catfish pieces dry with paper towels to guarantee crispiness.
Step 5: Dip each piece of catfish in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal seasoning mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Place the coated catfish pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 8: Lightly spray the top of the catfish with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
Step 9: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time, until the nuggets are golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 10: Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce like remoulade or tartar sauce.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sugars: 1g
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Catfish Filets
Elevate your catfish dinner with this crispy, flavorful garlic Parmesan crust that cooks to perfection in the air fryer. The combination of savory garlic, nutty Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a delicious coating that seals in moisture while giving you that satisfying crunch without deep frying.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and set aside.
Step 3: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Drizzle the breadcrumb mixture with olive oil and mix well to guarantee the crumbs are lightly coated.
Step 5: In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
Step 6: Dip each catfish fillet into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 7: Press the fish into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly and pressing gently to adhere.
Step 8: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the coated fillets in the basket without overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 9: Cook for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 10: Carefully remove the catfish from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 485mg
- Calcium: 180mg
Coconut-Crusted Catfish With Mango Salsa
This tropical-inspired air fryer catfish dish brings together the delicate flavor of catfish with a crispy coconut coating, complemented by a fresh, vibrant mango salsa. The air fryer creates the perfect crunchy exterior while keeping the fish moist and tender inside, all with minimal oil.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
For the Mango Salsa:
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour mixed with garlic powder and paprika. In the second dish, add the beaten eggs. In the third dish, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Dredge each catfish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
Step 5: Place the breaded catfish fillets in the air fryer basket without overcrowding (you may need to cook in batches). Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray.
Step 6: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through cooking time, until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: While the fish is cooking, prepare the mango salsa by combining all salsa ingredients in a bowl. Gently mix and let sit for flavors to meld.
Step 8: Serve the coconut-crusted catfish hot from the air fryer topped with fresh mango salsa.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 430mg
Honey Mustard Glazed Air Fryer Catfish
This honey mustard glazed catfish delivers perfectly crispy fish with a sweet and tangy coating that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. The natural sweetness of honey complements the mild flavor of catfish, while Dijon mustard adds a sophisticated kick that transforms this simple dish into something special.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, and half of the paprika to create the glaze.
Step 2: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of each fillet with the honey mustard glaze, reserving about 2 tablespoons for later.
Step 3: In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, breadcrumbs, remaining paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Dredge each glazed fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to guarantee even coating on both sides.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 6: Place the coated catfish fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Step 7: Cook for 8-10 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets and brush with the reserved glaze. Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 650mg
Mediterranean Herb and Olive Oil Catfish
This Mediterranean-inspired catfish dish brings together the delicate flavor of fresh catfish with aromatic herbs and quality olive oil. The air fryer guarantees a perfectly crisp exterior while keeping the fish tender and moist inside. A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, while a touch of garlic adds depth to this simple yet elegant preparation.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Step 2: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fish, making sure all fillets are evenly coated. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the marinated catfish fillets in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
Step 5: Cook for 8-10 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: While the fish cooks, warm the kalamata olives slightly in a microwave for about 20 seconds.
Step 7: Serve the catfish immediately, topped with warm olives and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Calcium: 55mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
Buttermilk-Soaked Catfish With Seasoned Flour Coating
This crispy air fryer catfish features a delicious buttermilk soak that tenderizes the fish and helps the seasoned flour coating stick perfectly. The air fryer creates a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky without excessive oil.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or oregano)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray or vegetable oil spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add catfish fillets, making sure they’re completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-4 hours.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Remove catfish fillets from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each fillet thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure coating adheres well.
Step 5: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil spray. Place catfish fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
Step 6: Lightly spray the top of the fish with oil spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through and spraying the other side with oil.
Step 7: The catfish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite sides like coleslaw or air-fried vegetables.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Blackened Catfish With Smoky Paprika Rub
Transform your catfish fillets into a flavor-packed delight with this smoky paprika rub. The air fryer creates the perfect blackened exterior while keeping the fish tender and moist inside. This dish brings together bold spices with the delicate flavor of catfish for a meal that’s both quick to prepare and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. This guarantees the spice rub adheres properly and helps achieve a better blackened crust.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and cumin. Mix well to create the blackening spice blend.
Step 3: Brush each catfish fillet with olive oil on both sides.
Step 4: Generously coat each fillet with the spice blend, pressing gently to make sure the spices adhere to the fish.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 6: Place the seasoned catfish fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overlap them. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 7: Cook for 8-10 minutes until the fish is blackened on the outside and flakes easily with a fork. There’s no need to flip the fish.
Step 8: Carefully remove the catfish from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Step 9: Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the fish.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 245 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 1g
Final Thoughts
With these air fryer catfish recipes, you’re enjoying the crispy indulgence of traditional fried fish while consuming up to 75% less fat.
Where conventional frying might deliver excess oils and inflammatory compounds, your air-fried versions preserve heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids naturally present in catfish.
You’ll maintain protein integrity without sacrificing texture – creating meals that satisfy cravings yet align with evidence-based nutrition recommendations.
The juxtaposition of decadent taste and nutritional benefit makes these recipes truly revolutionary.
