Is catfish good in the air fryer?

Yes, this air fryer catfish recipe proves it. You get all the flavor and crisp texture of fried fish without the oil or cleanup. It’s healthier, faster, and just as satisfying.

Can you put catfish in the air fryer without breading?

You can! This air fryer catfish recipe works both ways. Breading gives you that crunchy Southern-style crust, but for a low-carb option, season and spray the fish lightly with oil for a tender finish.

Can I put raw fish in an air fryer?

Absolutely. The air fryer catfish recipe is designed to cook raw fillets directly, no pre-cooking or boiling needed. Just season or coat, preheat the air fryer, and let it do the work.

What do you soak catfish in before cooking?

Soaking in buttermilk or salted water is optional but recommended. This step boosts the flavor and helps tenderize the texture, especially useful for wild-caught catfish. It’s a great way to prep for your next air fryer catfish recipe style.

The Best Air Fryer Catfish recipe

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Catfish Recipe That Brings Southern Flavor Home
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 catfish fillets (½ to ¾ inch thick); ½ cup buttermilk (for soaking); 1 cup cornmeal; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and black pepper to taste; Olive oil spray; Lemon wedges (for serving)

Description

I’m Shaym—the cook behind SoolFood. This air fryer catfish recipe is my twist on a Southern classic. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

2 catfish fillets (½ to ¾ inch thick)

½ cup buttermilk (for soaking)

1 cup cornmeal

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper

Salt and black pepper to taste

Olive oil spray

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for 15–30 minutes, then pat dry.

2. Preheat the air fryer to 385°F.

3. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

4. Coat the fillets evenly in the seasoned cornmeal mixture.

5. Lightly spray both sides of the fish with olive oil.

6. Place fillets in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 385°F for 11 minutes.

7. Flip, spray again, increase to 400°F, and air fry for another 4 minutes.

8. Remove, rest 2 minutes, then serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Use thinner fillets for quicker cooking.

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Pair with air fryer corn on the cob or slaw for a full Southern plate.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: Southern