We are used to seeing fried or Cajun-style or blackened catfish on menus or in cookbooks, but this mild and somewhat dense fish is also delicious when grilled. And because it has a sweet flavor, this type of fish doesn't need a lot of seasoning. This recipe is quick and easy, with a simple coating of flavorful Worcestershire sauce and black pepper.
Grilled catfish is perfect served with fresh creamed corn and stir-fried spinach with garlic. Or grill some fresh vegetables while the coals are hot.
![Large browned catfish fillet on a charcoal grill](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/JGThgcRTgjO2-BqRoLK6V97vQsk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/simple-grilled-catfish-3052514-step-04-1-cc272df0baf14089896fe7e6ae81f264.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Yana Karin
Tips for Making Catfish Recipe
Even some of the most confident cooks become a bit skittish when grilling fish fillets. There is a fear of the fish falling apart and through the grates, and sticking to the grill when trying to flip a fillet over. But by following a few tips you can be assured that you will achieve fish-grilling success.
- A clean grill is key - It is important that the grill is clean and the grates are coated with a bit of oil (using tongs and a paper towel with oil works well); it also should be nice and hot. A clean, oiled, hot grill will keep the fish from sticking to the grill grates.
- Grilling basket - Catfish is a firmer fish than other fish fillets, so it should stay intact when on the grill, but if you are concerned, you can use a fish-grilling basket, or place the fish in foil packets first—just keep in mind the fish will essentially steam this way and won't have the texture of grilled fish.
"A great alternative to fried catfish. Great recipe for camping!" —Renae Wilson
![Grilled Catfish Tester Image](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/mTFie4j_DVLPyZK7UkyeTUCwofU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/simple-grilled-catfish-3052514-Renae-Wilson-2021-d710972dc1954270bf410e365f01a975.jpg)
Ingredients
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1 pound catfish fillets
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2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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Kosher salt, optional
Steps to Make It
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Gather the ingredients. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Brush and oil the grates so that you have a clean grilling surface for the fish.
The Spruce Eats / Yana Karin
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Brush 1 pound catfish fillets with the 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle with the 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
The Spruce Eats / Yana Karin
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Place the fish on the preheated grill. If using a charcoal grill, place the fillets about 4 to 6 inches from the heat. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes.
The Spruce Eats / Yana Karin
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Brush again and turn. Grill about 5 minutes longer, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Sprinkle with salt, if desired.
The Spruce Eats / Yana Karin
Feeling Adventurous? Try This:
- Make it sweet and spicy - Combine ketchup, vinegar, horseradish, brown sugar, and garlic in the marinade.
- Make it zesty - Although not as easy to come by, if you do get your hands on some whole catfish you might want to try grilling them, basting with a tangy lemon-butter sauce that has a little bit of heat.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
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222 | Calories |
11g | Fat |
1g | Carbs |
28g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
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Servings: 2 to 3 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 222 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 11g | 14% |
Saturated Fat 2g | 12% |
Cholesterol 100mg | 33% |
Sodium 217mg | 9% |
Total Carbohydrate 1g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 0g | 1% |
Total Sugars 0g | |
Protein 28g | |
Vitamin C 0mg | 2% |
Calcium 21mg | 2% |
Iron 1mg | 4% |
Potassium 593mg | 13% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. |
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