Description
A bold and spicy Cajun-grilled catfish recipe that delivers a restaurant-quality blackened crust in under 30 minutes. This easy weeknight dinner is high in protein, gluten-free, and perfect for summer grilling.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 to 2 pounds fresh catfish fillets (skinless and boneless)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large lemon, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F to 450°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them generously with a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create the spice rub.
- Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Brush both sides of the fillets with melted butter. Sprinkle the spice rub evenly over both sides, pressing gently to adhere.
- Let the seasoned fish rest for 5 to 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Place the fillets on the oiled grill grates. Do not move them for the first 3 to 4 minutes to allow a crust to form.
- Check if the fish releases easily from the grate. If so, flip gently using tongs.
- Grill the second side for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Do not flip the fish until it releases easily from the grate. If using frozen catfish, thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat very dry before seasoning. Check spice blends for hidden gluten if strictly gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0.5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 25
Keywords: Cajun Grilled Catfish, grilled fish, weeknight dinner, healthy seafood, blackened fish, gluten-free recipe, summer grilling, high protein meal