Fried Catfish Nuggets Recipe

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Get ready to elevate your seafood game with these Fried Catfish Nuggets! Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these nuggets are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or trying catfish for the first time, this recipe is a delicious way to bring variety to your dinner table.

catfish nuggets with yellow rice and mango salsa

Catfish nuggets are small pieces of catfish that are sold in the seafood section in the supermarket.  Catfish nuggets have no bones in them, they are like filets cut into pieces.  Catfish nuggets are usually very cheap, but they are very tasty if cooked using this recipe.  Fried catfish nuggets make a very delicious and EASY dinner!

On this photo, I served fried catfish nuggets with yellow rice and mango salsa!

Why You’ll Love Fried Catfish Nuggets

  • Quick and Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. No complicated steps or special equipment are needed!
  • Affordable and Delicious: Catfish nuggets are budget-friendly but packed with flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank.
  • Crispy Perfection Without Extra Oil: Thanks to the natural oils in catfish, you can achieve a crispy exterior without adding any additional cooking oil. It’s a healthier way to enjoy fried fish!
  • Versatile Pairings: These nuggets pair wonderfully with a variety of sides like yellow rice, roasted potatoes, or even a tropical mango salsa. You can easily customize the meal to your liking.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether serving a family dinner or entertaining guests, fried catfish nuggets are always a hit. Their golden-brown, crispy exterior and tender inside make them irresistible.

Ingredients For Fried Catfish Nuggets Recipe:

  • 1 lb catfish nuggets – Tender and boneless pieces of catfish, perfect for frying.
  • 1/2 cup flour – Creates a crispy coating for the nuggets.
  • 3/4 tsp salt – Enhances the flavor of the fish.
  • 1/4 tsp pepper – Adds a hint of spice and depth to the dish.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Fried Catfish Nuggets

  • Non-Stick Frying Pan – Ensures the fish doesn’t stick and cooks evenly.
  • Large Plate – Perfect for coating the catfish nuggets in flour.
  • Measuring Spoons – To accurately measure the salt and pepper.
  • Spatula – For flipping the nuggets while cooking.

Directions How To Make Fried Catfish Nuggets:

Put the flour on a large plate.

Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat (I use 2 pans, so I can cook all the fish at the same time).  Note that you don’t need oil!  Catfish is an oily fish, and will release its own oil – as long as your frying pan is non-stick, the catfish will not stick to it.

Roll each catfish nugget in the flour on both sides, then put on a frying pan.  Cook for 4 minutes, or until golden-brown on the bottom.  Flip the catfish nuggets to the other side and cook for another 4 minutes.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve the catfish nuggets piping hot!

Here’s the picture of fried catfish nuggets served with roasted new potatoes:

fried catfish nuggets recipe

Serving Suggestions

Tips For Success

  • Use Fresh Catfish Nuggets: Fresh catfish nuggets ensure the best flavor and texture. If frozen, thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture.
  • Preheat Your Pan: Always heat your non-stick frying pan before adding the fish. This helps achieve a crispy, golden exterior without sticking.
  • Coat Evenly: Make sure each nugget is fully coated in flour for an even crispiness. Gently press the flour onto the fish to create a thin, even layer.
  • Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the nuggets in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and make the nuggets soggy instead of crispy.
  • Season After Cooking: While the catfish is naturally flavorful, sprinkling salt and pepper immediately after cooking enhances the taste without overpowering it.
  • Serve Immediately: These nuggets are best enjoyed fresh and hot. If you need to keep them warm, place them in a low oven (200°F) on a wire rack to maintain their crispiness.

Variations And Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch. This keeps the nuggets crispy and suitable for those avoiding gluten.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture for a subtle heat. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
  • Herb-Infused Flavor: Mix dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill into the flour coating to add more depth of flavor to the nuggets.
  • Panko Coating: For an even crunchier texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour. Dip the nuggets in a beaten egg before coating with panko to help it stick.
  • Air Fryer Option: If you prefer an oil-free method, cook the catfish nuggets in an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Citrus Zing: Serve the nuggets with lemon wedges or a drizzle of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness.
  • Kid-Friendly: Pair the nuggets with ketchup or ranch dressing for a dipping option that kids will love.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Place any leftover catfish nuggets in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, keep them in a single layer to maintain their crispy texture.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating in the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, to restore their crispiness.
  • Reheating in the Air Fryer: For the crispiest results, reheat the nuggets in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes.
  • Reheating in the Microwave: While convenient, microwaving can make the nuggets less crispy. If you choose this method, heat them in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute catfish nuggets with other boneless, flaky fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock. The cooking process remains the same, but the flavor may vary slightly based on the fish used.

Do I need to add oil to the pan?

No, catfish is naturally oily and will release enough oil during cooking. Just make sure to use a good-quality non-stick frying pan to prevent sticking.

Can I bake the catfish nuggets instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place the nuggets in a single layer. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

What can I serve with fried catfish nuggets?

These nuggets are versatile and pair well with sides like yellow rice, roasted potatoes, coleslaw, or mango salsa. For dipping sauces, tartar sauce, spicy aioli, or ranch dressing are great options.

How do I keep the nuggets crispy if I’m cooking in batches?

To maintain crispiness, place cooked nuggets on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F) while frying the remaining batches. This prevents sogginess and keeps them warm.

Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

While they are best served fresh, you can coat the catfish nuggets in flour a few hours before cooking and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them right before serving for the best taste and texture.

Other Easy Nuggets Recipes

Oven-Baked Catfish Bites: Tender and flavorful catfish bites baked to crispy perfection in the oven with minimal effort.

Crispy Catfish Nuggets in Air Fryer: Golden, crunchy catfish nuggets made effortlessly in the air fryer for a quick and delicious meal.

Air Fryer Plant-Based Chicken Nuggets: A healthier and crispy alternative to traditional nuggets, perfect for plant-based eaters.

Frozen Chicken Nuggets in Air Fryer Instructions: A foolproof guide to turning frozen chicken nuggets into crispy, hot bites in minutes using your air fryer.

Healthy Baked Chicken Nuggets with Panko Coating: Deliciously crispy and guilt-free chicken nuggets baked with a golden panko crust.

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Fried Catfish Nuggets

Fried catfish nuggets are the perfect blend of crispy and tender, made with simple ingredients for a flavorful meal. These golden nuggets are quick to cook and pair beautifully with sides like yellow rice or mango salsa. Whether you’re looking for an affordable dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe delivers every time.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time13 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: crispy fish, Fried catfish nuggets, quick seafood recipe
Cooking Method: Pan-fried
Diet: Gluten-friendly adaptable
Servings: 2
Calories: 330kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb catfish nuggets
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)

Instructions

  • Place flour on a large plate.
  • Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. (Use two pans if cooking all the fish at once.)
  • Roll each catfish nugget in flour, coating both sides.
  • Place the nuggets in the frying pan. Cook for 4 minutes, or until golden-brown underneath.
  • Flip the nuggets and cook for another 4 minutes.
  • Sprinkle with salt and pepper while hot.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Catfish is naturally oily, so no additional oil is needed for frying if using a non-stick pan.
  • Serve these nuggets with roasted potatoes, yellow rice, or a refreshing mango salsa for a complete meal.
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Nutrition

Calories: 330kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 132mg | Sodium: 970mg | Potassium: 849mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 115IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 2mg
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One Comment

  1. I’ve never had catfish! That’s a lovely little dish though, I absolutely love mango salsa, we grow a lot of mangoes where I’m from.

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