Catfish Nuggets

Name: Catfish Nuggets (Air Fryer)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: ~16 nuggets
Ingredients: 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1.5 inch pieces; 1/2 cup cornmeal (yellow, fine grind); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (mixed into the egg)

Yield

Prep

Total

~16 nuggets

15m

27m

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Cornmeal gives these air fryer catfish nuggets their classic Southern flavor and crispy texture. This recipe keeps it simple with Old Bay and garlic powder. Find the complete ingredient list and step-by-step instructions here.

Ingredients

1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
1/2 cup cornmeal (yellow, fine grind)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon hot sauce (mixed into the egg)

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Season it upPairs with Simple Salt & Pepper, Blackening Spice, Cajun Heat, or Old Bay ClassicSee all seasonings →

Steps

01Cut catfish into roughly equal sized nuggets, about 1.5 inches.
02Mix the cornmeal, flour, and all seasonings in a shallow bowl.
03Beat the egg with the hot sauce in another shallow bowl.
04Dip each nugget in the egg wash, then press firmly into the cornmeal mixture, coating all sides.
05Place breaded nuggets on a plate. Let them sit for 5 minutes so the coating sets.
06Ready for the air fryer.

Cornmeal is what makes this catfish and not just any fried fish. The fine grind sticks better than coarse, and the hot sauce in the egg wash adds flavor without noticeable heat.

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How to Air Fry It

Temp

Cook

Prep

Flip?

400°F

12m

15m

Yes

01Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
02Cut catfish fillets into bite-sized nuggets and toss in your preferred breading or seasoning.
03Spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the nuggets in a single layer.
04Spray the tops of the nuggets generously with cooking oil.
05Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying any dry spots, until crispy and golden.

Lightly spray the basket or tray before cooking.