Cajun Baked Catfish: Southern Flavor Meets Seafood Elegance
When Southern comfort meets coastal richness, you get this bold and creamy Cajun Baked Catfish with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Lemon Shrimp Sauce. Brought to you by @cravinwithraven, this dish is what happens when soulful home cooking gets a seafood remix. It’s spicy, creamy, buttery, and downright unforgettable.
From the seasoned catfish baked to flaky perfection, to the shrimp swimming in a rich, cheesy lemon cream sauce—it’s giving luxury soul food. This dish delivers Black Southern tradition with a gourmet edge. Whether you’re cooking for date night, Sunday dinner, or just treating yourself, this 30-minute meal turns any table into a 5-star experience.
Ingredients List
For the Catfish
- 5 catfish fillets
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 lemon slices
For the Shrimp
- ½ lb raw shrimp, deveined
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp yellow seasoning
- 1 tbsp avocado oil spray
For the Creamy Lemon Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ yellow bell pepper, chopped
- ½ onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Plate
- 1 cup of mashed garlic mashed potatoes
- ½ cup cooked green beans
- Whole shrimp for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Bake the Catfish
- Place catfish fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush with avocado oil, season with Cajun spice, and top with lemon slices.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
2. Prep and Season the Shrimp
- Devein the shrimp and season with Cajun and yellow seasoning.
- Mixing well to coat evenly.
3. Cook the Shrimp
- Spray a skillet with avocado oil and cook the shrimp until pink and opaque.
- Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté chopped bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Add lemon juice, heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan to the skillet.
- Whisking until smooth and creamy.
6. Finish the Sauce with Shrimp
- Season the sauce with black pepper, then add the cooked shrimp back in.
- Stir to coat.
7. Assemble and Serve
- Plate mashed potatoes, top with baked catfish, and pour shrimp cream sauce over everything.
- Garnish with green beans and whole shrimp if desired.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor in the cream sauce.
- Swap catfish for salmon or tilapia if preferred.
- Add cayenne for extra heat in the shrimp or sauce.
- Serve with cornbread for the ultimate Southern combo.
About the Creator
This recipe is by Raven, the creative force behind @cravinwithraven. Known for her rich, soulful recipes with a bold twist, she brings Southern heat and comfort to every bite.
Raven | @cravinwithraven