fried catfish stuffed mozzarella

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Stuffing

• 4 catfish fillets
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Frying

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Stuffing:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped spinach, chopped shrimp, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stuff the Catfish:
   • Lay each catfish fillet flat and place a generous spoonful of the stuffing mixture in the center of each fillet.
   • Carefully roll up the fillets, starting from one end and rolling towards the other, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
3. Prepare the Coating:
   • Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. Beat the eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the Catfish:
   • Dredge each stuffed catfish fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured fillet into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is completely coated.
   • Roll the fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to the fish.
5. Fry the Catfish:
   • In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
   • Carefully place the breaded catfish fillets into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
   • Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
   • Remove the fried catfish from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the fried catfish stuffed with cream cheese, spinach, mozzarella, and shrimp immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Enjoy this delicious and indulgent fried catfish dish, perfect for a special occasion or a delightful dinner!