This Pan-Fried Fish and Cheese Grits recipe is the ultimate Southern comfort food, featuring crispy, tender white fish over creamy grits. Perfect for brunch or dinner.
4white fish filletssuch as catfish, cod, tilapia, or haddock
1cupbreadcrumbs
1/4cupshredded Parmesan cheeseoptional
1tablespoonCajun seasoning
salt and pepperto taste
oil for pan-frying
For the Cheese Grits
4cupswater
1cupgrits
1cupshredded sharp cheddar cheese
2tablespoonsbutter
1/2cupmilk
Instructions
Prepare the Cheese Grits
In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt. Slowly stir in 1 cup of grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
Once the grits are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter until fully melted and incorporated. Pour in the milk and continue stirring until the grits reach your desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while preparing the fish.
Pan Fry the Fish
Lightly moisten each fish fillet with water. and season the fillets evenly with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Press each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded fish fillets to the skillet. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked through, remove the fish from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Spoon a generous portion of cheese grits onto each plate and top with a crispy fried fish fillet. Garnish with fresh herbs and hot sauce.
Keyword fish and cheese grits, fish and grits, southern fish and grits