This dish features tender red snapper topped with a delicious creamy Creole sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s quick to make and perfect for impressing dinner guests!
I love how the sauce adds a nice kick, but it’s not too spicy. Just serve it over rice, and you have a meal that looks fancy without all the fuss. You’ll feel like a chef in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Snapper: This fish has a lovely, mild flavor and holds up well in cooking. If you’re unable to find red snapper, you can also use tilapia, snapper, or sea bass as alternatives.
Cajun or Creole Seasoning: This mix is essential for that authentic flavor! You can make your mix using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme if you don’t have a pre-made option.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich sauce. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk, which adds a unique twist.
Corn: Use creamed corn for sweetness and additional creaminess. If you prefer, whole kernel corn works too, or you can substitute with peas or diced bell peppers for a different texture.
How Do I Get the Red Snapper Perfectly Cooked?
To ensure your red snapper is perfectly cooked, follow these simple steps:
- Start with dry fillets. Pat them down with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them get a nice sear.
- Heat your oil or butter over medium-high heat before adding the fish. Once hot, gently lay the fillets in the skillet.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Use a fish spatula to flip without breaking the fillets.
- Remove from pan when the fish flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque in the center.
Easy Red Snapper With Creamy Creole Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Red Snapper:
- 4 red snapper fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper (green or red), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup creamed corn or whole kernel corn
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley sprigs, for garnish
- Cooked rice or your choice of side, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious red snapper dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Red Snapper:
Start by patting the red snapper fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides of the fillets evenly with the Cajun or Creole seasoning, giving them a flavorful kick!
2. Sear the Fish:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned snapper fillets to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and nicely browned. When done, remove the fillets from the skillet and keep them warm by covering them with foil.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become softened and fragrant. This will build a lovely base for your sauce!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the creamed corn or whole kernel corn, along with the optional diced tomatoes, and cook for another 2 minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. This is what will bring all the flavors together!
6. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to plate! Spoon the creamy Creole sauce generously over the cooked red snapper fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately alongside cooked rice or your preferred side dish.
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Creole-style red snapper! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Red Snapper With Creamy Creole Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Red Snapper?
Yes, you can use frozen red snapper! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve a nice sear.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Sauce?
If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Cajun or Creole seasoning and hot sauce. You can also omit the hot sauce altogether for a more subtle flavor. Conversely, if you like it spicier, feel free to add more hot sauce or even some diced jalapeños!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and creamy, but will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to help refresh the sauce!
