Looking for a quick and easy dinner idea that is ready in less than 30 minutes? Look no further than this baked catfish nuggets recipe! These bite-sized pieces of tender, flaky catfish are coated in a light and crispy panko breading seasoned with garlic, making them a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
So, fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy the savory flavor and satisfying crunch of baked catfish nuggets!
Table of contents
Not only are they quick and easy to make, but baked catfish nuggets are also kid-friendly, and a healthier alternative to fried catfish, with less oil and fewer calories. Plus, they're versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or snack, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
Catfish nuggets are baked until they are golden brown and have a mild and slightly sweet taste with a delicate texture. The panko coating provides a light and crispy crunch that complements the tender fish perfectly.
The flavor of the catfish pairs well with a variety of sauces and dips, such as tartar sauce, ranch dressing, or hot sauce, allowing you to customize the taste to your liking.
Just for fun
Catfish is a popular food fish around the world, especially in the southern United States, where they are often fried and served with hush puppies and coleslaw. They are also a common ingredient in Cajun and Creole cuisine.
Ingredients needed
Catfish Filets, Panko Crumbs, Bread Crumbs, Canola Oil, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, and Nonstick Cooking Spray.
Recipe Notes
- If you prefer a bit of spice, you could try using Cajun seasoning, Creole seasoning, or a few dashes of cayenne pepper in this recipe.
- Alternatively, lemon pepper is a great seasoning option to add a burst of flavor.
- For an extra touch of citrus, consider serving it with lemon wedges.
Step-by-step recipe directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Set the catfish filets on some paper towels to dry off any excess moisture. Then, cut the catfish into bite-size pieces. About 1 - 1 ½ inch sections.
In a medium-sized bowl or a zip-loc bag, mix together the panko, bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and canola oil, ensuring the mixture is well combined.
Drizzle 2 or 3 teaspoons of canola oil onto a baking sheet, ensuring it is coated evenly.
Next, dip the catfish bites into the panko mixture, or place a few pieces at a time in the zip-loc bag and shake until they are coated (similar to the "shake and bake" method).
Arrange the catfish nuggets in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Lightly spray the tops with non-stick spray.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and turn the catfish nuggets over when there are approximately 3 to 4 minutes of cooking time remaining. Cook until the catfish is fork-tender.
The Baked Catfish Nuggets will golden brown and slightly crispy.
Other seafood recipes
What to serve with this catfish recipe
- To begin with, this Baked Catfish Nugget Recipe pairs excellently with tartar sauce. I typically whip up a simple sauce using only mayonnaise and dill relish.
- If you're in need of a fast and straightforward vegetable side dish, consider sautéed green beans or oven-roasted cauliflower.
- How about some Crispy Smashed Potatoes? Recipe by Red's Reality.
- Maybe some Broccoli Salad or Cornbread? Recipes by Your Everyday Heirlooms.
Recipe FAQ's
The catfish nuggets are done when they are fork-tender and the coating is golden brown.
Yes, you can use other types of white fish such as tilapia, cod, or haddock.
Yes, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs. However, the texture may not be as crispy.
Mom Tip
Kids love finger foods, and these Baked Catfish Nuggets are a perfect choice to add to your dinner rotation. You might also want to try ranch dressing as a dipping sauce for the little ones.
In conclusion, baked catfish nuggets are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner idea, a light lunch, or a mid-afternoon snack, baked catfish nuggets are a healthy and flavorful option that you won't regret trying.
So, the next time you're in the mood for some tasty seafood, or just an alternative to chicken nuggets, give baked catfish nuggets a try - your taste buds will thank you!
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Recipe
Baked Catfish Nuggets
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds Catfish Filets cut into 1-inch squares
- ⅔ cup Panko
- ⅔ cup Bread Crumbs
- 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
- 2 tablespoons Canola Oil divided
- ½ teaspoon Salt more or less to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Pepper more or less to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Cut the catfish into bite-size pieces. About 1 to 1 ½-inch squares.
- In a bowl or a Zip-loc bag, mix together the panko, bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and canola oil. Mix well.
- Drizzle the remaining canola oil onto a baking sheet.
- Dip the catfish bites into the panko mixture, or place a few pieces at a time in the Zip-loc bag and shake. (shake and bake style!)
- Place the catfish nuggets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan.
- Spray the tops lightly with the non-stick spray.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10 minutes. Turn the catfish nuggets over and continue to bake for another 2 - 5 minutes.
- The nuggets are done when they are fork-tender.
Notes
- If you prefer a bit of spice, you could try using Cajun seasoning, Creole seasoning, or a few dashes of cayenne pepper in this recipe.
- Alternatively, lemon pepper is a great seasoning option to add a burst of flavor.
- For an extra touch of citrus, consider serving it with lemon wedges.
Shawn
Wonderful an easy thanks