What to Serve With Fried Catfish? 17 Simple Sides Ideas

Catfish is a source of protein that is low in calories and rich in omega-3 and vitamin B12. Fried catfish is a delicious meal that you can pair with various foods!

Catfish is a delectable staple in Southern cuisine. The fish is coated with cornmeal batter and fried in bacon grease, absolutely delicious.

Regardless of how delicious fried catfish is on its own, you’ll need to serve it with side dishes (ideally Southern) to balance out the richness of the dish. If you’ve never tried combining tastes with fried fish, you’ve come to the correct spot!

What to serve with fried catfish?

Side dishes that go well with catfish include hush puppies, french fries, coleslaw, braised greens, red beans, vegetable salad, mac and cheese, potato salad, spinach and squash, white rice, and spaghetti.

Fried catfish can be a tasty option for snacks, dinner, or lunch. You can adjust it to your liking!

Check out these side dishes ideas for fried catfish and if you love any of them, don’t forget to try them for your next menu at home!

Hush Puppies

Hush Puppies are a type of cornbread made with a cornmeal batter. They are often served as a side dish with fried fish or chicken and go particularly well with fried catfish.

Looking for a healthier option? Try baking them instead of frying. Pour the batter into mini-muffin pans and put them in the oven. They won’t have the same crunch as before, but they’ll still taste delicious.

French Fries

French fries are a popular side dish that can be served with almost any main course. They go well with deep fried, tender catfish because they provide a crunchy contrast to the flaky fish.

Try out different flavors of french fries such as garlic, Parmesan, or even sweet potato.

FUN FACT: This European classic needs no introduction, but did you know they also double up as bait for Catfish if you ever find yourself fishing for them?

Coleslaw

Another deli-must. Coleslaw is a popular choice, especially with fried catfish. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, it’s hard to resist.

Make your own dressing or use a pre-made one to save time. For a healthier option, go for Greek yogurt coleslaw instead.

Braised Greens

If you want something hearty and filling, braised greens are the way to go. They pair perfectly with fried catfish, as the richness of the dish is cut through by the bitterness of the greens.

Try using kale, chard, or collard greens. Braising them will make them tender and give them a delicious flavor.

Red Beans

Red beans are a staple in Southern cooking. They can be served on the side or as a main dish.

If you’re serving them as a side, pair them with fried catfish and rice. For a main dish, add sausage or ham to the beans for extra flavor.

Vegetable Salad

A light and refreshing option, vegetable salad is a great choice if you want something healthy to balance out the fried food. Try using a mix of chopped vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. Add a vinaigrette or your favorite dressing.

Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This classic side dish goes well with just about anything, including fried catfish.

For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. You can also add in some vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach.

Spinach and Squash

This is a healthy and flavorful side dish that goes well with fried catfish. It’s also a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables!

Simply cook the spinach and squash in a pan with some olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Potato Salad

Potato salad is another side dish that goes well with fried catfish. It’s usually made with mayonnaise, but you can use Greek yogurt to lighten it up.

Add in some chopped celery, onions, and pickles for extra flavor. For a bit of spice, try adding in some mustard or horseradish.

White Rice

White rice is a popular side dish for many dishes, including fried catfish. It’s a great way to soak up the sauce or gravy from the dish.

For a healthier option, use brown rice instead. Add cilantro & lime zest to give it a really good kick.

Spaghetti

Yes, spaghetti! This popular Italian dish is a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables. Simply cook the spaghetti in a pan with some olive oil. Add in some chopped vegetables, such as tomatoes, zucchini, and onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Fried Okra

Okra is a popular vegetable in the South. It’s often fried and served as a side dish with fried catfish.

For a healthier option, try baking the okra instead of frying it. Simply coat it in some olive oil and bake it in the oven.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are another popular side dish in the South. They’re usually made with pork or bacon, but you can leave it out for a vegetarian option.

Add in some chopped onions and peppers for extra flavor. For a bit of spice, try adding in some jalapeños or chili powder.

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is a creamy and delicious side dish that goes well with fried catfish. It’s usually made with milk and butter, but you can use yogurt or cream cheese to lighten it up.

Add in some chopped onions and peppers for extra flavor. For a bit of spice, try adding in some jalapeños or chili powder.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with just about anything. For a healthier option, use Yukon gold potatoes and don’t add in too much cream or butter.

Add in some chopped onions, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. For a bit of spice, try adding in some cayenne pepper or chili powder.

Roasted vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish. Try roasting a mix of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add in some garlic, herbs, or spices for extra flavor.

Cabbage slaw

Cabbage slaw is a light and refreshing side dish that goes well with fried catfish. It’s usually made with cabbage, carrots, and onions. Add a vinaigrette or your favorite dressing.

For a bit of spice, try adding in some jalapeños or chili powder.