Pan Seared Catfish & Grits

SERVES: 4

COOK TIME: 30 Min

Take your taste buds on a tasty adventure with a Southern favorite. The farm-raised catfish, teamed up with creamy, cheesy grits create the perfect balance. We think that after you serve this to your family, this might become one of those dishes that everyone requests over and over again… it’s just that amazingly good!

What You'll Need

4 1/2 cups water
1 cup white or yellow grits
FISH SEASONING
1 1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaf
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 fillets (about 1-1/4 pounds total) U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish, cut into 2-inch pieces
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup bacon bits
Sliced scallions for garnish

What to Do

In a large saucepan over high heat, bring water to a boil. Add grits, stir, and cover. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook 20 minutes or until grits are softened, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine Fish Seasoning ingredients; mix well. Sprinkle seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of catfish pieces, patting seasoning lightly onto fish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil until hot. Sauté fish in batches, 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until fish is firm in center and flakes easily with a fork.
Add cheese, butter, and salt to the grits; stir until cheese and butter are melted. Spoon grits into bowls, top with catfish pieces, bacon bits, and a sprinkle of scallions. Serve immediately.