Air Fryer Catfish
Ready in about 26 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Southern-style cornmeal-crusted catfish with a crisp, seasoned crust and flaky flesh. The air fryer gives you that fried-catfish crunch without a pan of hot oil.
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets
- 120 g fine cornmeal
- 40 g plain flour
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 240 ml buttermilk
- Oil spray
Method
- 1Soak the catfish in buttermilk for 10 minutes.
- 2Mix the cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder and pepper.
- 3Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mix, pressing to coat.
- 4Preheat the air fryer to 200°C/400°F and mist the fillets with oil.
- 5Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and 63°C/145°F inside.
- 6Serve with lemon and a dollop of remoulade.
Tips for the best results
- A cornmeal crust gives the most authentic Southern crunch.
- Do not skip the oil mist; it turns the coating golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer catfish?+
Cook at 200°C / 400°F for 10-12 min, flip halfway.