Fried catfish is a classic Southern staple that’s beloved for its light, flaky texture and mild flavor. And while Red Lobster is best known for their endless shrimp and famous cheddar biscuits, you may be wondering—does this popular seafood chain actually serve up fried catfish on their menu?
As a catfish fan myself I decided to do some digging to find out the answer. In this article we’ll take a look at the availability of fried catfish at Red Lobster, how it’s prepared, what dishes you can order it in, and other important details to know. We’ll also answer some common questions about Red Lobster’s catfish offerings.
So let’s get crispy! Here’s a complete guide to fried catfish at Red Lobster restaurants.
An Overview of Fried Catfish at Red Lobster
The short answer is yes, you can indeed order fried catfish at Red Lobster locations across the United States. It’s offered as a regular menu item, so you don’t have to worry about it being a limited-time seasonal special or only available certain days of the week.
Red Lobster serves up their fried catfish as part of the “Fish Fry” section of their menu. You have your choice of getting an order of hand-breaded golden fried domestic catfish as a standalone entree or adding it as one of your selections in a seafood combo platter.
In terms of preparation, Red Lobster coats their catfish fillets in a cornmeal breading before frying it until crispy. They use farm-raised catfish, which is prized for its flaky texture, sweet flavor, and lack of “fishy” taste. The catfish is fried in trans fat-free vegetable oil for a healthier offering.
So if you’re a catfish fan, you can definitely satisfy your craving at Red Lobster restaurants nationwide. Now let’s look at the most popular ways to order it!
Tasty Ways to Enjoy Fried Catfish at Red Lobster
Here are some of the best options for ordering crispy, golden fried catfish during your Red Lobster visit:
Fried Catfish Entree
This simple but delicious entree features hand-breaded, fried catfish fillets served with your choice of two sides. Opt for favorites like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or rice pilaf to complement the catfish.
Create Your Own Combination
With Red Lobster’s popular “Create Your Own Combination” offerings, you can select fried catfish as one of your choices in a 2-fish, 3-fish, or 4-fish platter. It’s a great way to sample fried catfish along with other seafood favorites.
Seafood Feast
This shared platter option allows you to pick out fried catfish as one of the items in a hearty seafood spread of batter-fried, grilled, and broiled seafood selections and side dishes. It’s perfect for a group dinner.
Lobster, Shrimp and Fish Feast
You can add fried catfish fillets in this three-course combo meal that also includes a lobster and shrimp appetizer and grilled salmon entree. It’s a good mix of seafood flavors.
Fish Fry Feast
For devoted catfish lovers, this all-fried fish option includes crispy fried catfish, shrimp, and cod served with fries and coleslaw. Get your fill of batter-fried deliciousness!
So as you can see, fried catfish makes the perfect addition to seafood combos and feasts at Red Lobster if you’re craving some crispy, cornmeal-coated catfish!
Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Catfish at Red Lobster
Here are answers to some common questions about ordering fried catfish at this popular casual dining chain:
Is fried catfish always available at Red Lobster?
Fried catfish is a regular, permanent menu item at Red Lobster locations, so you can enjoy it year-round. Availability may occasionally vary by specific restaurant location.
What type of catfish does Red Lobster fry?
Red Lobster uses farm-raised U.S. catfish, which is sustainably raised and provides a mild, sweet flavor.
What are the fried catfish fillets cooked in?
The catfish is fried in trans fat-free vegetable oil, which is considered a healthier cooking oil than alternatives like shortening or lard.
Can I customize my order of fried catfish?
Yes, you can request grilled instead of fried catfish and swap out the sides it comes with for your favorites. Red Lobster aims to accommodate preferences.
Is fried catfish gluten-free at Red Lobster?
While fried catfish is gluten-free, the breading used contains gluten. Those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance should request grilled, unbreaded catfish.
Is catfish healthy at Red Lobster?
While fried preparation adds calories, catfish is actually a lean, low-fat fish that provides nutrients like protein, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium. In moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.
What sauce is served with the fried catfish?
The fried catfish entree comes with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or lemon garlic butter sauce for dipping. You can also order extra sauces on the side.
Can I order fried catfish for takeout or delivery?
Yes, you can order fried catfish and other menu items for takeout or delivery through Red Lobster’s online ordering or To Go menu. It retains its crispy texture nicely.
Satisfy Your Fried Catfish Craving at Red Lobster
As a Southern fried catfish fan, I’m glad to know I can get my fix at Red Lobster along with indulging in their famous cheddar biscuits and endless shrimp. The next time I’m craving that crispy cornmeal crust and tender flaky catfish, I know exactly where to go.
So if you were wondering “does Red Lobster have fried catfish,” the answer is a definitive yes! It’s readily available as a standalone entree or as part of a seafood combo. Just check with your local restaurant for any potential regional or seasonal availability differences.
And be sure to try their fried catfish next time you’re dining at Red Lobster. It provides the perfect crisp, golden Fried catfish experience to satisfy comfort food cravings in a casual dining setting.
