Baked Whole Catfish

Introduction

Baked Whole Catfish is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of the fish while adding a deliciously crispy exterior. This recipe allows the catfish to bake to perfection, retaining moisture and tenderness inside, while being seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that complement its mild, flaky texture. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a special dish for a gathering, Baked Whole Catfish will impress with its ease of preparation and incredible flavor.

I remember the first time I made this dish for a family dinner, when the aroma of the baked fish filled the house and everyone was excited to dig in. What’s great about Baked Whole Catfish is how versatile it is—you can adjust the seasoning to your liking, whether you prefer a bit of lemon zest, garlic, or even a touch of heat from cayenne pepper. The crispy, golden skin adds texture, while the juicy, tender fish inside creates a satisfying bite that’s full of flavor.

This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, too. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick roast in the oven, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Whether you’re serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, Baked Whole Catfish is sure to be a hit on your dinner table!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Seafood lovers
• Healthy meals
• Casual parties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Baked Whole Catfish will quickly become a favorite:

• Simple Preparation: No complicated steps—just a few ingredients and a hot oven.
• Flavorful Seasoning: The herbs and spices elevate the natural taste of the fish without overpowering it.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Catfish is a lean protein, low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.
• Moist and Tender: Baking the fish whole ensures it stays juicy and tender on the inside while getting a golden, crispy skin on the outside.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add different vegetables for a personal twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked Whole Catfish:

For the Catfish:

• 2 whole catfish (about 1 ½ pounds each), cleaned and scaled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh lemon slices
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or dill)

Ingredient Highlights

• Catfish: A mild, firm fish with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for baking whole.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Adds richness and helps crisp up the fish skin.
• Garlic and Lemon: Bring a burst of flavor and brightness to the dish.
• Herbs and Spices: Paprika, onion powder, and parsley complement the fish, adding depth without overpowering it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked Whole Catfish:

Prepare the Catfish:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Clean the Fish: If your catfish isn’t already cleaned, be sure to remove the scales, guts, and gills. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the Fish: Drizzle olive oil (or melted butter) over the catfish, rubbing it evenly over the skin. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and minced garlic. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Bake the Catfish:

4. Place in the Oven: Place the seasoned catfish on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Check for Doneness: If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). The fish should be tender and the skin should be crispy.

Serve and Garnish:

6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the catfish from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired. Serve the fish whole or carefully fillet it at the table.

How to Serve

Baked Whole Catfish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be served in many ways:

• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the catfish on a bed of seasoned rice or quinoa for extra texture and heartiness.
• With a Salad: A light, refreshing salad with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers is a great complement to the fish.
• With Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds a sweet contrast to the savory fish.
• With a Tangy Sauce: Serve with a side of tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or a fresh salsa for added flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Whole Catfish turns out perfectly:

• Dry the Fish Thoroughly: Make sure to pat the fish dry before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up in the oven.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning based on your taste. Add chili powder for a spicy kick, or use thyme or dill for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the fish while it bakes. Overcooking can make it dry. The fish is done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Baked Whole Catfish:

• Lemon Herb Catfish: Add more fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to the seasoning mix for a fragrant, herby twist.
• Spicy Cajun Catfish: Use Cajun seasoning and a dash of cayenne pepper for a bold, spicy flavor.
• Garlic Butter Catfish: Swap olive oil for garlic butter for extra richness and depth.
• Herb-Infused Oil Catfish: Marinate the fish in a mix of olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and herbs for an hour before baking.
• Smoked Paprika Catfish: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Citrus-Infused Catfish: Add orange zest and juice along with lemon for a citrusy and fragrant variation.
• Honey Mustard Glazed Catfish: Brush the fish with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
• Parmesan-Crusted Catfish: Top the catfish with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy, cheesy crust.
• Mediterranean Catfish: Add olives, capers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
• Baked Catfish with Pesto: Spread pesto sauce over the fish before baking for an aromatic and flavorful result.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze cooked catfish for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items that can help make preparing Baked Whole Catfish easier:

• Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet is perfect for roasting the fish.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensure your fish is cooked to the perfect temperature with a meat thermometer.
• Kitchen Tongs: Tongs are handy for flipping or moving the fish without damaging it.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen catfish?
   Yes, you can use frozen catfish. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before baking.
2. Can I bake the catfish without oil?
   While the oil helps crisp up the skin, you can skip it if you prefer a lighter dish. Just make sure to season the fish well.
3. Can I bake multiple catfish at once?
   Yes, you can bake multiple whole catfish as long as they fit comfortably on the baking sheet. Be sure to allow for even airflow around each fish.
4. Can I stuff the catfish with herbs or vegetables?
   Yes, stuffing the catfish with fresh herbs, lemon slices, or vegetables like onions and garlic can add extra flavor.
5. What is the best side dish for baked catfish?
   Roasted potatoes, coleslaw, sautéed spinach, or a quinoa salad would all be great sides.

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Conclusion

Baked Whole Catfish is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-prepare meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a simple combination of fresh ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The catfish bakes to perfection, with a mild, flaky texture that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a bed of rice.

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special meal with loved ones, Baked Whole Catfish is a dish that never disappoints. Its light yet satisfying flavor makes it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, and the ease of preparation means you can enjoy a delicious meal with little fuss.

I’d love to see how your Baked Whole Catfish turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy your flavorful feast!