This Beer-Battered Catfish recipe brings crispy pub-style crunch and Southern soul food together in one irresistible bite.

The beer batter is light, airy, and loaded with flavor — perfectly wrapping tender catfish fillets in a golden shell that crackles with every bite.

Serve it with fries, hushpuppies, or coleslaw, and don’t forget the tartar sauce or hot honey dip.

Ingredients

For the Catfish:

• 1½ to 2 lbs catfish fillets (fresh or thawed)
• Salt & pepper to season
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

For the Beer Batter:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crisp)
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
• 1 tsp salt
• 12 oz cold beer (pale ale, lager, or IPA — your pick)

Beer Tip: Use a light, crisp beer for mild flavor, or a hoppy IPA if you want a subtle bitter edge. Avoid sweet or dark beers for this one.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Fish

Pat the catfish dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Lightly dredge in plain flour and set aside — this helps the batter stick.

Step 2: Make the Beer Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and spices.

Slowly pour in the cold beer, whisking until the batter is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Pro tip: Keep the batter cold for crispier results.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350–365°F (175–185°C).

Work in batches so you don’t crowd the oil.

Step 4: Batter and Fry

Dip each piece of catfish into the batter, letting the excess drip off.

Carefully place into the hot oil. Fry for 4–6 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy.

Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic sides: French fries, hushpuppies, creamy coleslaw, or cheese grits
• Dips: Spicy tartar sauce, hot honey mustard, Cajun remoulade, or chipotle mayo
• Bonus touch: Sprinkle hot fried fish with sea salt and a squeeze of lemon

Final Thoughts

Beer-Battered Catfish is a crispy, flavorful twist on a Southern classic — perfect for cookouts, fish fry Fridays, or any night you’re craving deep-fried comfort.

It’s got that crispy pub crunch with down-home soul, and it’s easy to customize depending on your beer (and your spice level).

Cheers to golden batter, cold beer, and hot fish! 🍻🐟🔥

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