Fried Fish and Spaghetti Sandwich Recipe (with Video)

For the Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Break them apart with a spoon and brown until cooked through.
5. Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine (if using). Mix well.
7. Add dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
8. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
9. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain. Then add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce and toss until fully incorporated.
For the Southern Fried Catfish
1. Rinse the catfish fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk. Place the catfish fillets in the buttermilk, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator. This helps tenderize the fish and adds flavor.
Prepare Coating
1. In another shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create the coating for the catfish.
Coat Catfish
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to around 350-375°F (175-190°C).
2. Remove catfish fillets from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
3. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing the coating onto the fish to ensure it adheres well.
Fry Catfish
1. Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
Drain and Serve
1. Once the catfish is golden and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. Toast your favorite bread and place some of the spaghetti on one slice of the bread and top with a piece of fried catfish and serve!