My fried catfish nuggets are crispy, easy to make, and well-seasoned. The cornmeal and flour make the perfect breading. No eggs! I promise these deep-fried seafood bombs will be sizzling in no time. Don’t forget to dip them in that tartar sauce for the ultimate flavor kicker!

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For all of my seafood lovers out there. If you want to experience my Southern roots, come on inside, my friends! I love to pair this delicious, whole catfish with fresh broccoli, honey cornbread, baked spaghetti, or even a fresh salad! Growing up, I hated catfish, but now I still do🤣 but my husband loves these little protein bites! I’m telling you, I fry them up perfectly for him. Golden brown, flaky, tender, and juicy every time. Just imagine these fried catfish nuggets with some good old sweet tea!

Reasons To Try fried catfish nuggets

Budget-Friendly- They are super easy on the wallet, and I mean, who doesn’t love a good, inexpensive Southern meal?
A family Recipe- The fact that these resemble chicken nuggets so much that the average picky eater will approve.
Fast To Whip Up- These nutritious bites take 20 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoy Your Way- Grab some Louisiana hot sauce or homemade tartar sauce. Either way, you’re not missing any flavor!
Fish Fry—This is the perfect recipe for summer backyard cookouts. That hot grease on those cool nights will give you those South Carolina vibes that millions come to experience every year.

Ingredients For Fried Catfish Nuggets

Cornmeal – The cornmeal makes a nice mixture to fry filets.

Flour- Used to help with the breading.

Vegetable Oil—Enough oil for frying. You don’t need a lot of hot oil. Depending on what you are cooking, you will only need 2 to 4 cups. The key to tender fish is to make sure the oil is at 350 degrees F before placing it in catfish for best results.

Mustard- helps to coat the fish and give it a tangy taste.

Seasonings- black pepper, season salt, garlic powder, Old Bay, paprika, lemon wedges.

How To Make Catfish Nuggets

Cut your catfish into bite-sized pieces.

Next, add flour and seasoning to a bowl while seasoning your fish.

Preheat your deep fryer to 350 degrees and slowly dip the bites into the grease in batches. Don’t overcrowd the deep fryer or Dutch oven.

Once golden brown, remove and enjoy these crispy goodies with hot sauce or tarter.

Variations

Try adding a bit of spice by adding some Cajun seasoning. I have a recipe with Cajun fish that includes tilapia as well.

Soak the fish in eggs and milk before dipping them into the seasoned flour mixture. Will create an even thicker breading.

Switch up the seasonings. This will help you know exactly what you like, especially if you are a beginner. Try lemon pepper and spicy creole seasoning (make it Southern-style).

Expert Opinion

Tenderizing them and adding flavor also helps the coating stick.

The best way to ensure your fish stays crispy is to try and enjoy it immediately.

They are a Southern classic made from pieces of bite-sized breaded catfish and fried until golden brown.