Prepare the catfish: Start by rinsing the catfish fillets under cold water and then pat them dry with a paper towel.

Soak in buttermilk: Place the fillets in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the fish and add moisture.

Mix the coating: In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour (if using), paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the spices evenly into the cornmeal.

Dredge the fillets: After soaking, remove each fillet from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge the fillets in the cornmeal mixture until they are well coated. Press lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps to achieve that crispy exterior.

Cook the Catfish: Once preheated, place the fillets in the air fryer basket, avoid overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Flip the fillets halfway through for even cooking.

Serve: Once done, remove the catfish from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute before serving. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with parsley if desired.