Description
This flavorful Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a delightful seafood dish combining pan-seared snapper fillets with a rich, spicy cream sauce infused with Creole seasoning, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 red snapper fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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
- Season the Fish: Pat the red snapper fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to build a flavorful base for the fish.
- Sear the Fillets: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned snapper fillets and cook each side for 3-4 minutes, until they are golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook while stirring frequently for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper if desired, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes if using, and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked red snapper fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Let the fish warm through in the sauce for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- Ensure the snapper fillets are patted dry before seasoning for better browning.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spice level in the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a thinner sauce.
- Serve with rice, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables to complement the creamy Creole sauce.
