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Delicious Easy Blackened Catfish cooked in a cast-iron skillet with Cajun spices.

Easy Blackened Catfish Southern Cajun Skillet

A quick and flavorful blackened catfish recipe that's perfect for busy nights, combining bold spices and a crispy exterior for a delicious meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 fillets Catfish fillets, about 4 to 6 ounces each Use fresh or thawed fillets, patted dry.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter or oil Use a mix of both for flavor and to prevent burning.
Spice Blend
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika Smoked paprika is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme or Italian seasoning Use whichever you have.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 pinch Brown sugar (optional) A tiny pinch helps balance heat.
For Serving
  • 2 wedge Lemon For squeezing on top.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels.
  2. Mix your spices in a small bowl and taste a tiny pinch.
  3. Lightly coat the fish with oil, then press the seasoning on both sides.
Cooking
  1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat until hot.
  2. Add a little oil and butter. When the butter foams, lay the fillets in gently.
  3. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side without disturbing.
  4. Flip carefully and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes until it flakes easily.
  5. Squeeze lemon on top and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep paper towels handy for drying fish. Adjust spice levels based on preference.