Fried Catfish

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbcatfish fillets$11.94
• 1 cupcornmeal$0.84
• 0.5 cupall-purpose flour$0.19
• 1 tbspCajun seasoning$0.08
• 1 cupbuttermilk$1.05
• 3 cupvegetable oil for frying$5.26
• 1 tspkosher salt$0.02
• 0.5 tspblack pepper$0.09
• 4 eachlemon wedges$0.53
• Total for 4 servings$20.00

Most of the cost is catfish fillets ($11.94) and vegetable oil for frying ($5.26). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $14.45. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and season evenly on both sides with the kosher salt and black pepper.
2. Pour the buttermilk into a wide, shallow bowl or dish. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and Cajun seasoning until evenly combined.
3. Pour the vegetable oil for frying into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat to 350°F (180°C).
4. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk to coat, let any excess drip off, then press firmly into the cornmeal mixture until thoroughly coated on all sides.
5. Carefully lower the fillets in batches into the hot oil without crowding the skillet. Fry over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side, without moving them prematurely, until golden brown, crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. Transfer the fried fish to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the catfish hot with the lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.