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–+ servings

Crispy Blackened Red Snapper with Cajun Spices

This pan-fried blackened red snapper delivers restaurant-quality results in just 20 minutes. The flaky white fish is coated with a bold homemade Cajun seasoning blend that creates a flavorful crust when seared in a hot cast-iron skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want an impressive seafood dinner without the fuss.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 19 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 304
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 4 red snapper fillets about 6 ounces each
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, lemon pepper, and cayenne pepper to make your blackening seasoning.
  2. Pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect blackened crust.
  3. Generously coat both sides of each fillet with the blackening seasoning mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
  4. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (about 5 minutes).
  5. Add butter and olive oil to the hot skillet, allowing the butter to melt and begin to foam slightly.
  6. Carefully place the seasoned snapper fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if the skin is still on. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
  7. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving, allowing a dark crust to form on the bottom side.
  8. Using a fish spatula, carefully flip each fillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Transfer the blackened red snapper to serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Calories: 304kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 24gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 57mgSodium: 2069mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
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