If you love vibrant flavors and tender fish, then this Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe is going to become one of your new favorites. Combining the delicate, flaky texture of perfectly cooked red snapper with a rich, spicy, and creamy Creole sauce, this dish delivers a harmonious blend of warmth, zest, and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, it’s a fantastic way to bring a touch of Southern charm and elegance to your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but play a crucial role in creating a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Each element, from the spices to the cream, adds its own vibrant note that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
- 4 red snapper fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best flaky texture and natural sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a perfect sear that locks in moisture and builds flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential basic seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and lovely color to the fish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Deepens the savory profile without overpowering the delicate fish.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Richness that rounds out the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and body to the sauce base.
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds vibrant color and a touch of crisp sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory warmth.
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning: The soul of this dish, delivering a perfect blend of spices with a bit of heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For an extra kick if you like it spicy.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional): Offers delightful texture and a burst of freshness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A final fresh and bright garnish that makes the dish pop.
How to Make Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Season the Snapper
Start by patting your red snapper fillets dry, which is key to getting that gorgeous sear. Season them generously on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This simple spice rub sets the stage for a flavor-packed dish right from the get-go.
Step 2: Sear the Snapper to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the fillets. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until you achieve a gorgeous golden crust and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a plate and keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Creole Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt the butter. Toss in your onions and bell peppers and sauté until they soften and become fragrant, about 4 to 5 minutes. Next, stir in garlic, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper if you want extra heat; cook for another minute to wake up those spices. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, letting everything simmer gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Finally, stir in heavy cream and simmer again for around 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the seared snapper fillets to the skillet, spooning generous amounts of that creamy Creole sauce over each piece. Let the fish warm through in the sauce for a minute or two — this final step ensures every bite is infused with flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add a burst of fresh, garden brightness to your plate.
How to Serve Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic way to finish this dish, lending a crisp contrast to the rich sauce. You can also sprinkle a little lemon zest or a few thinly sliced green onions for added color and a slightly tangy fresh note that complements the heat and creaminess wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines beautifully alongside buttery garlic mashed potatoes, steamed jasmine rice, or creamy polenta — all perfect for soaking up that incredible Creole sauce. For a lighter contrast, try a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned simply with olive oil and sea salt.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the snapper fillets on a wooden board or rustic platter, letting guests spoon the sauce themselves. Alternatively, plate each fillet individually on white china with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley and paprika. You could also jazz it up by pairing with a colorful vegetable puree for an elegant, restaurant-quality look at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so tempting to finish every bite), store the snapper and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
While freezing cooked snapper isn’t ideal due to texture changes, the creamy Creole sauce freezes beautifully. Pour the sauce into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your leftovers, warm the sauce slowly in a saucepan over low heat to prevent curdling, stirring frequently. Reheat the snapper fillets gently, either in the sauce or wrapped in foil in a low oven, just until warmed through to maintain their moist, flaky texture.
FAQs
What kind of creole seasoning should I use?
Look for a blend that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano for the most authentic flavor. You can find premade mixes or make your own at home to suit your spice preference.
Can I substitute another type of fish for red snapper?
Absolutely! Firm white fish like grouper, sea bass, or cod work well in this recipe, as they hold up nicely to searing and pair beautifully with the creamy Creole sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level is flexible. The Creole seasoning and optional cayenne offer a gentle warmth, but you can adjust the spice by adding more cayenne or omitting it according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy plant-based alternative, and use olive oil instead of butter to keep it dairy-free while maintaining the luxurious texture.
How long does this recipe take from start to finish?
You’re looking at about 35 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking—making it a fantastic option for a flavorful weeknight meal that feels special without much fuss.
Final Thoughts
This Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe is such a joyful dish to make and eat. Its layers of flavor and textures come together effortlessly, proving that sometimes the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable meals. I truly hope you give it a try and share it with loved ones — it’s the kind of recipe that turns a regular day into a special occasion.
Print
Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole
Description
A flavorful and creamy Red Snapper recipe featuring a rich Creole sauce made with spices, vegetables, cream, and chicken broth. This dish combines perfectly seared red snapper fillets with a smooth, slightly spicy, and aromatic sauce, finished with fresh parsley for an elegant and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
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)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Fish: Pat the red snapper fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring a thorough coating for optimal flavor.
- Sear the Fillets: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned fillets in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the snapper from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Creole Sauce: Lower the heat on the skillet to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and bell pepper, stirring frequently and cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, Creole seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper, cooking for about 1 minute until aromatic. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (if using), letting the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors. Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked red snapper fillets to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Allow the fish to warm through in the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately alongside your preferred side dishes.
Notes
- Optional diced tomatoes add texture and a subtle flavor boost to the sauce.
- Cayenne pepper can be adjusted or omitted depending on your preferred spice level.
- Ensure the snapper fillets are patted dry before seasoning for better searing and crisper crust.
- Serve with steamed rice, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy Creole sauce.
