This vibrant dish features lightly seared red snapper fillets smothered in a creamy Creole sauce made with peppers, onions, garlic, and a touch of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, it’s a restaurant-quality meal made simple.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red snapper fillets, skin-on or skinless | 4 (about 6 oz each) |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Cajun or Creole seasoning | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 small |
| Green bell pepper, finely chopped | 1/2 |
| Red bell pepper, finely chopped | 1/2 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken or seafood broth | 1/4 cup |
| Paprika | 1/4 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tbsp (for garnish) |
| Lemon wedges | For serving |
Instructions
- Pat snapper fillets dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Add butter, then sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth, scraping the bottom of the pan, then stir in heavy cream, paprika, and cayenne if using. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the snapper to the skillet or spoon sauce over the fillets on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Why This Recipe Works
The clean, flaky texture of red snapper pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy Creole sauce. Cajun spices add a subtle kick without overpowering the fish, making it a standout, restaurant-quality dish that’s simple to prepare.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over white rice or garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Pair with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
- Add crusty bread or cornbread to complete the Southern-inspired meal.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the fish tender and prevent drying out.
