Catfish is a versatile and beloved fish, especially in Southern cuisine. When combined with the tangy zest of Dijon mustard, it transforms into a mouthwatering dish that’s both rich in flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Dijon Mustard Baked Catfish recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with a dish that feels gourmet but is simple to make.
What does Dijon mustard add to a dish? Dijon mustard, made from brown or black mustard seeds and white wine, offers a smooth and slightly spicy flavor that enhances the taste of fish like catfish. It adds a sharp, tangy element to the dish, balancing the mildness of the fish with a punch of flavor. The result is a beautifully seasoned, moist, and tender catfish fillet that’s bursting with taste.
Ingredients
For this Dijon Mustard Baked Catfish recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Fish and Marinade
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Breaded Topping
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This marinade will serve as the flavorful base for your catfish fillets.
Step 3: Marinate the Catfish
Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is well-coated with the mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the fish, making it more flavorful.
Step 4: Prepare the Breaded Topping
While the fish is marinating, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and dried thyme in a small bowl. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter and cheese. This topping will add a delightful crunch to the baked catfish.
Step 5: Coat and Bake the Catfish
Remove the catfish from the refrigerator and place the fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the breaded topping evenly over each fillet, pressing down gently to adhere.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown. The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the catfish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the delicious combination of tangy mustard and crispy breadcrumbs.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Ensure Proper Marination: For the best flavor, marinate the catfish for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, you can marinate the fish for up to 2 hours for an even deeper flavor.
- Crispy Topping: If you prefer an extra crispy topping, you can broil the catfish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Use Fresh Catfish: Fresh catfish fillets will yield the best results, but frozen catfish can also be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
Possible Variations
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the marinade or topping. Fresh dill or tarragon can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy Dijon mustard baked catfish.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
Substitutions
- Mustard Substitution: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use whole grain mustard for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Parmesan Alternative: For a different cheese flavor, try substituting Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 1g
This dish is a balanced source of protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for a hearty meal.
What is a Good Side Dish for Baked Catfish?
Pair your Dijon Mustard Baked Catfish with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Some excellent side dishes include:
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes complements the flavors of the catfish beautifully.
- Lemon Garlic Rice: A simple lemon garlic rice adds a fresh, zesty touch that pairs well with the tangy mustard.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy catfish.
- Cornbread: Southern-style cornbread is always a great choice to serve alongside catfish.
Dijon Mustard Baked Catfish is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tangy Dijon mustard, crispy breadcrumbs, and tender catfish creates a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.