Crispy Southern Style Fried Fish

There’s nothing quite like the comforting crunch of Southern-style fried fish fresh from the skillet. Whether served with coleslaw, hushpuppies, or a pile of fries, this classic dish brings that home-cooked magic to the table every single time. Lightly seasoned, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—this is the kind of food that stirs memories of family fish fries, backyard gatherings, and weekend dinners that ended with satisfied smiles.

If you’ve been searching for that perfectly crispy golden crust and juicy, flavorful fish like Grandma used to make, look no further. This easy and delicious recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together in minutes. Serve it up with lemon wedges and hot sauce for a true taste of the South!

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Crispy and golden every time

✅ Classic southern flavor with simple pantry spices

✅ Quick and easy – from skillet to table in under 30 minutes

✅ Versatile – great for sandwiches, tacos, or a fish fry platter

✅ Family-friendly – even picky eaters love it!

🛒 Ingredients for Crispy Southern-Style Fried Fish

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect crispy fish:

1 lb white fish fillets (like cod, tilapia, catfish, or whiting)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup yellow cornmeal

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt & black pepper, to taste

1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)

Oil for frying (vegetable, peanut, or canola oil work well)

Optional additions: cayenne pepper for heat, lemon zest for brightness, or hot sauce mixed into the buttermilk for a kick.

• Large cast iron skillet or deep frying pan
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Mixing bowls (for dredging station)
• Paper towels and cooling rack
• Cooking thermometer (optional, but helpful)

⏱️ Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~350–400 per serving (varies with oil used)

👨‍🍳 How to Make Crispy Southern Fried Fish

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and prevents excess moisture during frying.

If using frozen fish, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained before breading.

Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station

In one bowl, pour the buttermilk.
In another bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Optional: Add a dash of cayenne or Creole seasoning to the flour mix for extra kick!

Step 3: Dredge the Fish

Dip each fillet into the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
Then press it into the flour and cornmeal mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Lay the breaded fish on a plate or tray while the oil heats.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour about 1 inch of oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat to around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small pinch of flour—it should sizzle immediately.

Step 5: Fry the Fish

Carefully place fish fillets into the hot oil (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, hot sauce, or a splash of vinegar. Don’t forget the sides!

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Traditional Southern Sides

Creamy coleslaw

Fried hushpuppies

Macaroni and cheese

Collard greens

Baked beans

French fries or potato wedges

Light & Fresh Options

Garden salad with vinaigrette

Roasted vegetables

Corn on the cob

Steamed green beans

Fun idea: Turn it into a crispy fish sandwich with lettuce, pickles, and remoulade on a brioche bun!

🧠 Tips for Perfect Fried Fish

Use a blend of flour and cornmeal – The flour gives structure, and the cornmeal gives crunch.

Keep the oil hot – Too cool and your fish will soak up oil and get soggy.

Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to maintain heat.

Let it rest on a rack – Paper towels work, but a cooling rack keeps that crust crisp!

Season while hot – Sprinkle with extra salt or lemon pepper right out of the fryer.

🔁 Variations to Try

Spicy Southern Fish

Add cayenne, chili powder, or Cajun seasoning to the flour blend.

Beer-Battered Style

Skip the cornmeal and make a batter with flour, beer, and baking powder for a pub-style crunch.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal (or all-cornmeal) for a gluten-friendly version.

Air Fryer Version

Spray breaded fillets with oil and cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

To Store:

Let fish cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes or in the air fryer to keep that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving—it makes the crust soggy.

Pro tip: Leftover fried fish makes a killer fish taco the next day.

🥘 Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 370

Protein: 28g

Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Fiber: 2g
(Values may vary depending on oil absorption and fish type)

❤️ Final Thoughts

This Crispy Southern-Style Fried Fish is more than just a recipe—it’s a Southern tradition. It’s the smell of the kitchen on a Sunday afternoon, the sound of sizzling oil, and that golden bite that crunches just right. Whether you’re hosting a fish fry or just want a taste of the South on a weeknight, this recipe will always deliver.

So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a crispy, savory dish that feels like a warm hug from home. 🐟💛

---

Tried this recipe?
Tag your plate with #SouthernFriedFish and let us know—did you go classic, spicy, or add a fun twist?

---

Print Recipe From Here ⤵️

More Recipes You Might Like