Description
Succulent red snapper with creamy creole sauce brings Louisiana’s coastal flavors to home kitchens. Fresh seafood and bold spices combine in this classic Southern dish that invites diners to savor authentic Cajun cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Seafood:
- 2 red snapper fillets
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Garnish:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Creole seasoning
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the fillets by generously seasoning red snapper with salt and pepper on both surfaces. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully sear the seasoned fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, achieving a golden-brown exterior and ensuring the fish is fully cooked. Transfer the fillets to a separate plate.
- In the same skillet, add additional olive oil if needed. Sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until vegetables become translucent and aromatic, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their natural flavors. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Creole seasoning, stirring to combine.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the mixture thickens and develops a rich, creamy consistency.
- Gently return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, carefully spooning the creamy Creole sauce over the top. Warm the fish in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and the fish remains tender.
Notes
- Select fresh, high-quality red snapper with firm, translucent flesh and a mild ocean aroma for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat fish dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown searing and prevent steaming instead of browning.
- Use cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to achieve even heat distribution and perfect fish crust.
- Lower cream sauce heat if it begins separating, whisking gently to maintain smooth, silky consistency.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for dairy-free version or lighter alternative without compromising sauce richness.
- Add cayenne or hot sauce to increase Creole seasoning’s spiciness for those who enjoy bolder flavors.
- Substitute chicken broth with seafood stock to enhance the fish’s natural maritime profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Creole
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg