Pan-Fried Lemon Butter Catfish

Catfish is celebrated as one of the most versatile and flavorful fish available in the culinary world. With its mild taste and firm texture, catfish can be prepared in numerous ways, making it a staple in various cuisines around the globe. Among the many delightful recipes featuring this fish, Zesty Lemon Butter Catfish Delight stands out as a refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish promises to deliver bright flavors and a satisfying experience.

Discover the delightful flavors of Zesty Lemon Butter Catfish Delight with this easy recipe! Perfect for any occasion, this dish features tender catfish fillets cooked to golden perfection, then drizzled with a bright lemon butter sauce. Combining the richness of butter with the freshness of lemon, every bite is a refreshing culinary experience. Pair it with steamed veggies or a light salad for a nourishing meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

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Ingredients

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

2 tablespoons olive oil

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 2 lemons

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparation of Catfish: Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a nice sear.

Seasoning Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Coating the Fillets: Dredge each catfish fillet in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and bubbly.

Pan-Frying the Catfish: Carefully place the coated catfish fillets in the skillet, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Once the catfish is cooked, remove it from the skillet and keep warm. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes or until the sauce slightly thickens.

Plate the Dish: Transfer the pan-fried catfish to serving plates and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over each fillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed vegetables or a light side salad to complement the flavors. Enjoy your deliciously zesty catfish dish!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings