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Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe

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4.5 from 99 reviews

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is an elegant yet easy dinner that combines perfectly pan-seared, mild red snapper fillets with a rich, spicy Creole-inspired cream sauce. The dish is packed with flavor, thanks to warming spices, sweet vegetables, and a luxurious texture—ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a taste of Louisiana at home.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Red Snapper:

  • 4 red snapper fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Creamy Creole Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for added texture and flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Red Snapper: Pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring an even coating.
  2. Cook the Red Snapper: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the snapper from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Make the Creamy Creole Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in minced garlic, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper if using; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked red snapper fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the fillets. Let the fish warm through for 1-2 minutes. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley and serve immediately, paired with your favorite side.

Notes

  • This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, with prep and cook times under 40 minutes.
  • If you like more heat, feel free to increase the cayenne or add a splash of hot sauce.
  • Red snapper can be substituted with similar white fish like grouper, tilapia, or cod.
  • For a full meal, serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the decadent sauce.
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Creole
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg