Introduction – Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
Craving that golden-fried Southern catfish flavor without all the oil? These air fryer catfish nuggets are the perfect solution!
Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and seasoned to perfection — they’re a healthier take on a comfort food classic. Whether served with fries, coleslaw, or tucked in a sandwich, these nuggets are perfect for weeknights or game days.
Best of all? They cook in just 10–12 minutes in the air fryer!
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb catfish fillets (cut into bite-sized nuggets)
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil mist
👨🍳 How to Make Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets – Step by Step
🔹 Step 1: Prep the Fish
Pat the catfish dry and cut into uniform chunks or strips.
🔹 Step 2: Create Dredge Station
In one bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg.
In another, mix cornmeal, flour, and all spices.
🔹 Step 3: Coat the Catfish
Dip each piece into the buttermilk mix, then dredge in the cornmeal-flour blend.
Press gently to coat evenly.
🔹 Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Spray basket with oil and place nuggets in a single layer.
Spray tops with cooking oil.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
🧄 Best Dipping Sauces to Serve With
- Classic tartar sauce
- Spicy mayo or chipotle aioli
- Cajun ranch dip
- Honey mustard
- Lemon-garlic yogurt sauce
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- 🍟 Serve with seasoned fries or sweet potato wedges
- 🥗 Add to a Southern-style salad
- 🌮 Make fish tacos with slaw and lime
- 🥪 Turn into a po’ boy sandwich with remoulade
💡 Tips & Variations
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer — cook in batches
- Want extra crunch? Double dip the fish
- No buttermilk? Use milk + vinegar or lemon
- Can sub catfish with cod or tilapia
❓ FAQ – Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
Q: Can I freeze them before air frying?
Yes! Bread the nuggets, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Air fry from frozen, just add 3–4 extra minutes.
Q: Are they kid-friendly?
Totally! Just skip the cayenne if you’re avoiding spice.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes — use cornmeal with gluten-free flour like rice or almond flour.
