What cookware works best?

Use a wide skillet and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.

How do I know it is done?

Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

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Skillet Meals

Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables

Name: Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun-American
Ingredients: 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 medium green bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small red onion, sliced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

By PanPotPlates Test KitchenReviewed by PanPotPlates Editorial TeamPublished Apr 29, 2026 · Updated May 12, 2026

Cajun-American 35 mins onepanskilletquickeasypescatarianhealthyfamily-friendlylowcarbflavorfulweeknight

This easy one-pan skillet recipe features perfectly seasoned blackened catfish fillets with bold Cajun-spiced roasted vegetables. Ready in 35 minutes, it's a healthy, low-carb, and family-friendly dinner choice ideal for quick weeknight meals.

Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables

Prep 15 min

Cook 20 min

Total 35 min

Servings 4

Difficulty easy

Cuisine Cajun-American

Ingredients

Servings 4

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 medium green bell pepper, cut into strips
1 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients for Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the blackening seasoning.
Pat catfish fillets dry. Generously rub blackening seasoning on both sides of each fillet.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the catfish fillets for 2-3 minutes per side until a dark crust forms. Remove and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Toss bell peppers, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then add to skillet.
Spread vegetables evenly and roast in preheated oven for 10 minutes.
Remove skillet, place catfish fillets on vegetables, and return to oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fish flakes easily.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables cooking in the recommended pan or pot

Tips

Pan Or Pot Required

This recipe is crafted as a one-pan skillet meal , perfect for quick preparation and easy cleanup.

Cookware Size Guidance

For best results, use a large oven-safe skillet approximately 12 inches in diameter .

Cookware Swap Guidance

This one-pan skillet recipe is optimized for quick, easy, and healthy cooking.

Leftovers Quality

Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables ahead?: Yes. Prep the ingredients or cook the full dish ahead, then reheat gently so the texture stays close to freshly made.
What cookware works best?: Use a wide skillet and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.
How do I know it is done?: Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

Customize this skillet blackened catfish recipe with these ingredient swaps for dietary preferences or ingredient availability:

Fish: Substitute catfish with cod, tilapia, or haddock for similar firm texture and mild flavor.
Spices: Swap cayenne pepper for mild paprika or use pre-made Cajun seasoning blends to vary heat and flavor profile.
Oils: Use avocado or grapeseed oils as high smoke point alternatives to olive oil.
Vegetables: Replace bell peppers and yellow squash with zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli according to seasonality or taste.
Citrus: Lime juice can replace lemon juice to provide fresh brightness.

These easy substitutions maintain the recipe’s quick, healthy, low-carb, and flavorful qualities, perfect for uncomplicated weeknight skillet meals with Cajun flair.

Storage and Reheating

Cool Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze portions for longer storage when the ingredients are freezer-friendly. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid if the dish looks dry.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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Skillet Blackened Catfish with Cajun-Spiced Roasted Vegetables

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions