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Golden Corral Fried Fish Recipe

Golden Corral’s fried fish is a delightful treat that brings a crispy, satisfying crunch with each bite!

You can easily recreate this favorite at home, and the key is in the perfect breading and frying technique.

Use fresh fish fillets and coat them in a well-seasoned batter for a taste that’s sure to impress.

Make sure your oil is at the right temperature to achieve that ideal golden-brown color—you’ll know it’s ready when the fish floats and sizzles!

I love how versatile this dish is, whether you pair it with fries, coleslaw, or even a side salad.

golden corral fried fish feat

How to Make Golden Corral Fried Fish Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. White Fish Fillets
  • 1 cup Cornmeal
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • Oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare your fish fillets by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.

Place them in a shallow dish.

Pour the buttermilk over the fillets, ensuring they are fully coated.

Let them soak in the buttermilk for about 15 minutes to enhance moisture and flavor.

Step 2:

In a separate bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Stir until all ingredients are well combined to create a flavorful breading mixture.

This will give your fish that classic golden and crispy texture.

Step 3:

Remove the fish fillets from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.

Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, making sure both sides are thoroughly coated.

Let them sit for a few minutes on a wire rack so the coating can adhere properly.

Step 4:

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat sufficient oil to 375°F.

Carefully place the fish into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan.

Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 5:

Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve them hot and enjoy the delightful crunch with your favorite sides.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

golden corral fried fish with fries

Optimize Oil Temperature:

Always keep an eye on your oil temperature as it should be around 375°F for a perfectly golden and crispy fish fry.

Using a thermometer makes it easy to achieve the right temperature for frying.

Buttermilk Soak:

Soaking the fish in buttermilk before coating adds delicious flavor and moisture that helps achieve that juicy interior.

This step can make a noticeable difference in the taste and texture of your fish.

Season Generously:

Don’t be shy about seasoning the breading mixture as it infuses the fish with flavor.

Adding a bit more spice like cayenne pepper can provide a good kick if you like things a bit spicier.

What to Serve with Golden Corral Fried Fish

Classic Coleslaw

When you’re enjoying a plate of Golden Corral fried fish, nothing pairs better than a refreshing side of coleslaw.

The crisp texture and creamy dressing of coleslaw complement the crunchy fried fish beautifully!

You can make it extra tangy by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to bring out the flavors even more.

Corn on the Cob

Freshly grilled or boiled, corn on the cob offers a sweet and buttery contrast to the savory taste of your fish.

You can sprinkle it with a little paprika or Parmesan for an added kick!

It’s easy to prepare, and there’s something so nostalgic about biting into a well-cooked cob of corn.

Sweet Potato Fries

For something a bit different, why not serve sweet potato fries on the side?

Their natural sweetness and slight crispiness create a lovely balance with the fried fish.

Try seasoning them with a pinch of cinnamon and salt for an unexpected yet delightful twist!

Pineapple Salsa

If you’re in the mood to try something new, pineapple salsa might just be your next favorite side.

The juicy pineapple mixed with red onions and cilantro adds a fresh and tropical note.

It not only looks vibrant but also elevates the meal with a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Garlic Sauteed Spinach

Another exciting option is garlic sautéed spinach, which gives a bright and garlicky edge to your meal.

Spinach quickly wilts in the pan, so it’s a breeze to prepare.

A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can add an extra zing that ties everything together.

Variations and Substitutions

When you’re ready to put your personal twist on the classic Golden Corral fried fish, there are countless tasty possibilities!

Meat Alternatives

If you’re not in the mood for fish, you could use chicken strips instead. They fry up nicely and offer a different texture and flavor.

Tofu is another fun option for a vegetarian twist on this dish.

Flour and Coatings

Feel free to swap out the traditional all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative. It works well and keeps things light and crunchy.

You might want to try seasoned breadcrumbs instead of cornmeal for an extra crispy coating.

Seasonings and Spices

Spice it up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the mix. It gives a delightful kick to each bite!

Lemon pepper can add a fresh and zesty flavor that complements the fish beautifully.

Cooking Methods

Frying isn’t the only way to go! You could bake the fish in the oven to achieve a healthier version while still getting some crispy goodness.

Air frying is another wonderful method that keeps the fish crisp and delicious with less oil involved.

How to Store Leftover Golden Corral Fried Fish

When you have some leftover Golden Corral fried fish, you want to keep it crispy and flavorful for later enjoyment.

Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve its texture and taste.

Store it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to maintain freshness and avoid any odors from invading.

Keep It Cool

Place your wrapped fried fish in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and safe for up to three days.

Remember to consume it within this time frame to enjoy it at its best.

Mark the Date

Always label your container or bag with the date you store it.

This helps you track how long it’s been in the fridge, ensuring you don’t keep it past its prime.

Freeze for Later

If you can’t eat it within three days, freeze your fried fish.

Ensure it’s wrapped well, then freeze to extend its life up to a month.

Always thaw it safely in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

You might find yourself tempted to skip the marination stage, thinking it’s not critical, but this step adds flavor and moisture, transforming your fish!

Ensure your oil is hot enough before you start frying, around 350°F, to get that perfect crispy coating.

If you overcrowd the pan, you’ll drop the oil temperature drastically, resulting in a soggier end product.

Proper Marination

When preparing your fish, avoid rushing through the marination process.

Giving the fillets some time to soak in spices or lemon juice can really make a difference.

Oil Temperature Control

Always check the oil temperature before you add your fish to the pan.

Too cold, and it won’t cook properly. Too hot, and you risk burning the batter.

Not Overcrowding

Ensuring there’s ample space around each piece helps maintain an even fry.

Crowding can lead to uneven cooking and less-than-crispy results.

golden corral fried fish feat

Golden Corral Fried Fish Recipe

You can easily recreate this favorite at home, and the key is in the perfect breading and frying technique.
Use fresh fish fillets and coat them in a well-seasoned batter for a taste that’s sure to impress.
Make sure your oil is at the right temperature to achieve that ideal golden-brown color—you’ll know it’s ready when the fish floats and sizzles!
I love how versatile this dish is, whether you pair it with fries, coleslaw, or even a side salad.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Servings 4 people
Ingredients
  
  • 2 lbs. White Fish Fillets
  • 1 cup Cornmeal
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • Oil for frying
Instructions
 
  • Prepare your fish fillets by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
  • Place them in a shallow dish.
  • Pour the buttermilk over the fillets, ensuring they are fully coated.
  • Let them soak in the buttermilk for about 15 minutes to enhance moisture and flavor.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Stir until all ingredients are well combined to create a flavorful breading mixture.
  • This will give your fish that classic golden and crispy texture.
  • Remove the fish fillets from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
  • Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, making sure both sides are thoroughly coated.
  • Let them sit for a few minutes on a wire rack so the coating can adhere properly.
  • In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat sufficient oil to 375°F.
  • Carefully place the fish into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan.
  • Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  • Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  • Serve them hot and enjoy the delightful crunch with your favorite sides.

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Passionate chef, in love with everything related to food and cooking it to perfection!
Michael Cook
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