Arkansas Cajun Grilled Catfish on Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Get ready to make an incredible Arkansas Cajun Grilled Catfish using bold spices and the high-heat searing power of the Arteflame grill. The center grill grate sears the catfish at 1,000°F to lock in its juices, while the surrounding flat cooktop griddle cooks it to perfection without burning. This method ensures a crispy, flavorful crust with tender fish inside. Let’s fire up the grill and make this Southern favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins and light them.
3. Allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the catfish

1. Pat the catfish fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl.
3. Rub the spice blend generously over both sides of the fillets.
4. Brush each fillet with melted butter to enhance the flavor and help create a crispy crust.

Step 3: Sear the catfish

1. Place the catfish fillets on the center grill grate of the Arteflame for a high-heat sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until the exterior develops a flavorful crust.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop griddle

1. Transfer the seared fillets to the flat cooktop surrounding the grill grate.
2. Cook for another 3-4 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 125°F, as it will continue to rise after removing from heat.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve with lemon wedges for added zest.
3. Enjoy with your favorite sides.

Tips

• Use freshly caught catfish for the best flavor.
• Make sure your grill is well-heated before placing the fillets on the grate.
• The butter helps create a crispier crust, so don’t skip it.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Catfish: Replace Cajun seasoning with garlic powder, salt, and fresh parsley.
• Smoky BBQ Catfish: Use a BBQ rub instead of Cajun spices and brush with BBQ sauce before removing from the grill.
• Blackened Catfish: Increase the black pepper and cook slightly longer for a darker crust.
• Herb-Crusted Catfish: Use Italian seasoning and lemon zest for a fresh herb flavor.
• Spicy Honey Cajun Catfish: Drizzle with honey right before serving for a sweet and spicy contrast.

Conclusion

Searing your Arkansas Cajun Grilled Catfish on the center grate of the Arteflame grill locks in flavor and gives it a crisp crust, while the flat cooktop ensures perfect doneness without burning. This grilling method makes every bite juicy and flavorful. Try different variations and pair it with delicious sides for a complete meal!

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus
• Garlic butter corn on the cob
• Coleslaw
• Grilled sweet potatoes
• Jasmine rice