I love fried catfish, but I know it’s not the healthiest option for me. I know nothing can reproduce that dish without frying, but I came up with a baked version that’s close. I have tried it in many different ways and have finally found a version that I think is fantastic. Instead of using white breadcrumbs, I use a combination of whole wheat breadcrumbs and ground cashews. I cook them quickly and perfectly in my toaster oven.

I found that a breaded breadcrumb on its own is too dry unless deep-fried. Cashews have a very buttery texture and taste, but the taste is mild enough that it doesn’t compete with the taste of catfish. I also find that in the absence of that unique fried flavor, spices are a very welcome addition. Obviously, the spices don’t make the fish taste fried, but it adds a beautiful flavor that leaves you satisfied so you forget about the fried version.

Ingredients

4 catfish fillets, about 4 ounces each

1 large chicken egg

1 tablespoon whole milk

3/4 cup fresh whole wheat breadcrumbs (you can buy these or use your food processor to make them from fresh bread)

1/4 cup finely ground cashews (use your food processor or heavy rolling pin to grind cashews)

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried granulated garlic

1/4 teaspoon dried onion granules

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Addresses

Heat your toaster oven to 450 degrees F.

Put the egg and milk in a shallow bowl or plate. Beat well and reserve.

Place the breadcrumbs, ground cashews, allspice, cumin, thyme, garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper in another shallow bowl or plate. Mix well.

Pat the catfish fillets dry then dip them in the beaten egg mixture. Move them into the breadcrumbs and cashew mixture and flip them to coat both sides. Place the breaded catfish on a parchment lined baking sheet that will fit in your toaster oven. Bake in your toaster oven until fish is completely opaque and breaded is golden brown; this should take about 10 minutes. Serve with hot sauce.

The best toaster oven for baking catfish

You will need a toaster oven that is capable of reaching 450 degrees F to properly brown the fish, without having hot spots burning parts of the fish. Visit Toaster Oven Reviews to find the best toaster oven for baking catfish and much more. You’ll find thousands of reviews and a handy buying guide to help you make the best decision.