Viral Stuffed Fried Catfish With Cheese, Spinach & Shrimp

Stuffed Catfish

Prepare to be amazed because today, we're diving into the latest culinary sensation that has taken the internet by storm – Viral Stuffed Fried Catfish! Yes, you heard it right, this viral dish has been making waves across social media platforms, and I couldn't resist the urge to dive into my culinary bag of tricks and bring you the recipe firsthand.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets, about 6-8 ounces each

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped

• 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• Vegetable oil for frying

• Lemon wedges for serving

Let's Make It!

1. Prepare the Stuffing:

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped shrimp, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

2. Stuff the Catfish:

Lay the catfish fillets flat on a clean surface. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among the fillets, spreading it over one side of each fillet. Roll up each fillet, enclosing the filling inside, and secure with toothpicks if necessary.

3. Breading the Stuffed Catfish:

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in one dish, the beaten eggs in another dish, and the breadcrumbs in the third dish.

Dredge each stuffed catfish fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Fry the Stuffed Catfish:

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Carefully place the breaded catfish fillets in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Remove the fried catfish from the skillet and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Serve:

Once all the stuffed catfish fillets are fried and drained, remove the toothpicks if used.

Serve the stuffed fried catfish hot, garnished with lemon wedges on the side.

That's it and that's all! Looks complex, but it's actually simple, doesn't have too many ingredients and will win over anyone you decide to make it for. If you try it, be sure to come back and let me know what you think!