If you’ve never made Air Fryer Catfish before, let me tell you—you are missing out. This is hands-down one of the best air fryer fish recipes out there, and it’s so easy, even on a crazy busy weeknight when the kids are asking what’s for dinner before you’ve even had a second to think. Trust me, I’ve been there.
I grew up on fried catfish, but I do not have time to deal with all that deep-frying mess. That’s why I’m obsessed with this Air Fry Fish Recipe—you still get that crispy, golden crust without standing over a pot of oil, worrying about splatters and clean-up. Just season, coat, pop it in the air fryer, and boom—dinner is ready in under 20 minutes. Even better? My kids actually love it, which is a small miracle in itself.
If you’ve been wondering how to cook catfish in an air fryer, this recipe is the answer. It’s got that classic Southern-style crunch with all the flavor, but way less oil. Whether you call it Airfry Catfish Recipes, Catfish Air Fryer, or just “the easiest dinner ever,” one thing is for sure—you’ll wanna make this again and again. So grab your fillets, fire up the air fryer, and let’s make some crispy, golden catfish the easy way!
What You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have:
- Catfish fillets – Fresh or frozen (thawed).
- Cornmeal – This is what makes the outside perfectly crispy.
- Flour – Helps the coating stick.
- Cajun seasoning – Gives it that bold, smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
- Garlic powder and onion powder – Essential for flavor.
- Paprika – Adds a little smoky depth and color.
- Egg – Helps everything stick.
- Hot sauce (optional but recommended) – Adds a little extra heat.
- Cooking spray – Helps crisp up the coating.
How to Make Air Fryer Catfish
Step 1: Dry the Catfish
First things first, pat the fillets super dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the coating stick better and keeps the fish from turning mushy. No one wants soggy catfish.
Step 2: Make the Coating
Grab two shallow bowls. In the first bowl, crack an egg and whisk it well. If you like a little heat, add some hot sauce.
In the second bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This is what gives the fish its crunchy, seasoned coating.
Step 3: Coat the Fish
Take a catfish fillet and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then press it into the cornmeal mixture, patting it down so every inch gets covered. Shake off any excess, then repeat with the remaining fillets.
Step 4: Air Fry
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray so nothing sticks. Lay the fillets in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching too much. If they’re overcrowded, they won’t crisp up properly.
Lightly spritz the top of the fish with cooking spray, then air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fish is done when the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the inside flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the fillets from the air fryer and serve immediately. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, dip in tartar sauce, or make a catfish sandwich on a soft bun with remoulade sauce.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Catfish
Here are some easy side dish ideas:
- French fries – Classic and easy. You can throw them in the air fryer too.
- Hush puppies – A great Southern-style side.
- Mac and cheese – Comfort food that pairs perfectly.
- Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy, fresh contrast.
- Cornbread – A great choice if you want a little sweetness on the side.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Catfish
- Pat the fish dry – This is key to a crispy coating.
- Cornmeal makes it crunchy – Don’t skip it.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Cook in batches if needed.
- Use fresh catfish if possible – It tastes the best, but frozen works too.
- Adjust the spice level – Add more or less Cajun seasoning and hot sauce based on your preference.
FAQs About Air Fryer Catfish
Do I need to use oil for air frying fish?
You don’t need much oil, but a light spray of cooking oil on the fillets helps them crisp up better. Without it, the coating may turn out a little dry.
Can I use frozen catfish?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you air fry frozen catfish, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I keep my fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Also, don’t overcrowd the fish—leave space for air to circulate.
How do I store and reheat leftover catfish?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to keep them crispy. Avoid the microwave—it’ll make the fish soggy.
Crispy Air Fryer Catfish Recipe Card
Crispy Air Fryer Catfish Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets fresh or thawed
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional
- Cooking spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Pat the Fish Dry
- Use paper towels to pat the catfish fillets very dry—this helps the coating stick and prevents sogginess.
Make the Coating
- In one bowl, whisk the egg and hot sauce together.
- In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Coat the Fish
- Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, then press into the cornmeal coating, making sure it’s evenly covered. Shake off any excess.
Air Fry
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place fillets in a single layer and lightly spray the top with cooking oil.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Don’t skip the cornmeal – It gives the fish that classic crispy texture.
- Preheat the air fryer – Helps the fish cook evenly.
- Cook in batches – Overcrowding prevents crispiness.
- Reheat in the air fryer – Keeps it crispy instead of soggy.
Alright, so there you have it—crispy, golden Air Fryer Catfish without the deep-frying mess. If you’ve been wondering how to cook catfish in an air fryer, I promise this is the easiest way to do it. It’s crunchy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s so much healthier than deep frying but still gives you that classic Air Fryer Fish Fry taste.
This has quickly become one of my go-to air fryer best recipes because it’s fast, delicious, and my kids actually eat it without complaining—huge win in my book. Whether you’re looking for an easy Air Fry Fish Recipe for a weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing Catfish Recipe, or just wanna try something new, this one is a keeper.
So next time you’re craving air fried fish, skip the oil and try this airfry catfish recipe instead. Whether you serve it with fries, coleslaw, or even on a sandwich, I guarantee you’ll be making it again. If you try it, let me know—are you team tartar sauce or team hot sauce?
