Dinner

Baked Catfish with Herbs Recipe

Name: Baked Catfish with Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489575H6M50S
Total time: PT-489575H6M50S
Cuisine: American Southern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; ¾ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 24 ounces catfish fillets (4 fillets, approx. 6 ounces each); Non-stick cooking spray; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Juice of one lemon; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

BySimon Carel November 4, 2025November 4, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This baked catfish with herbs is a simple, flavorful dish that brings out the best in tender fish fillets. The blend of fresh and dried herbs combined with a lemony butter drizzle makes for a delicious and healthy meal perfect for any night of the week.

A white round plate holds four fillets of cooked fish covered in a mix of green and brown herbs and spices, giving each piece a textured, slightly crispy look. The fish is light beige with specks of barbecue-like seasoning and hints of orange from cooking. Two bright yellow lemon slices are placed on top and around the fish, adding a fresh color contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with some green parsley visible to the side and a striped cloth near the top right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
24 ounces catfish fillets (4 fillets, approx. 6 ounces each)
Non-stick cooking spray
2 tablespoons melted butter
Juice of one lemon
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the minced fresh parsley, salt, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, dried basil, and ground black pepper.
Step 3: Lightly coat a baking pan with non-stick cooking spray and place the catfish fillets on the pan.
Step 4: Evenly sprinkle the herb and spice mixture over both sides of each catfish fillet.
Step 5: In another small bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon juice, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 6: Drizzle the butter-lemon-garlic mixture over the seasoned fillets on the baking pan.
Step 7: Bake the catfish uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the herb mixture for a subtle heat.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones; use about three times the amount of fresh herbs.
If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the fillets for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Storage

Store leftover baked catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to avoid drying out the fish. Avoid using a microwave to maintain texture.

How to Serve

A white round plate holds four herb-coated cooked fish fillets arranged close together. Each fillet has a golden-brown grill texture with green and dark herb flakes spread thickly on top, giving a rough, speckled look. Under and around the fillets are two lemon slices, bright yellow with a juicy, slightly translucent texture. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with some green herb pieces scattered lightly around for a natural touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, mild white fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock work well with this herb and butter seasoning. Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Is it necessary to use fresh parsley?

While fresh parsley adds a bright flavor, you can substitute with dried parsley if needed—use about one teaspoon dried instead of two tablespoons fresh.