Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality seafood dish that’s easy to make at home, this Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a must-try! The snapper is pan-seared until golden and flaky, then smothered in a rich, slightly spicy Creole-inspired sauce. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and bold flavors.

This dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing the vibrant taste of Louisiana straight to your table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and all the reasons why you’ll love it!

Why You’ll Love This Red Snapper Recipe

• Full of Flavor – The combination of paprika, garlic, and Creole spices gives the fish a deliciously bold taste.
• Creamy & Comforting – The Dijon mustard and heavy cream create a luxurious sauce that enhances the fish.
• Quick & Easy – You’ll have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes!
• Healthy & Nutritious – Red snapper is packed with lean protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients.

What Does Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Taste Like?

This dish has a wonderful balance of flavors—mildly sweet red snapper with a smoky, slightly spicy crust, paired with a creamy, tangy, and slightly zesty Creole sauce. The lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness, while the Dijon mustard brings a subtle tang that makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Snapper:

• 4 red snapper fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Creole Sauce:

• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

this Recipe

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

How to Make Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

1. Season the Fish

Pat the red snapper fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

2. Sear the Snapper

Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fillets skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creole Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped green onions (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine & Serve

Return the snapper fillets to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over the top, and let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

What to Serve with Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – The sauce is perfect for spooning over creamy mashed potatoes.
• Cajun Rice – A bold and flavorful side to complement the Creole-inspired flavors.
• Steamed Vegetables – Keep it light with steamed asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach.
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich, creamy sauce!

Tips for the Best Red Snapper

• Use Fresh Fish – Fresh red snapper has a mild, sweet flavor and firm texture. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook – Snapper cooks quickly; remove it from heat when it flakes easily with a fork.
• Customize the Heat – Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference. Want it extra spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
• Get a Good Sear – A hot skillet ensures a crispy, golden crust on the fish.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the fish.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! This sauce works well with other white fish like grouper, cod, halibut, or tilapia.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra cayenne, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of Cajun seasoning for more heat.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and the butter for olive oil or dairy-free butter.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce and spices beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, rich textures, and just the right amount of spice. It’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve for a special occasion. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! If you love this dish, pin it on Pinterest (Pinterest), share your photos, and drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!

Love Seafood? Try These Recipes Next!

• Mississippi Oven-Baked Catfish – A delicious, crispy baked catfish recipe with Southern flavors.
• Shrimp and Crawfish Cakes – A perfect blend of shrimp, crawfish, and seasonings in golden, crispy cakes.
• Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce – An indulgent surf-and-turf meal perfect for special occasions.

Now, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!

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