Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe

Looking to spice up your weeknight dinner with something bold, rich, and full of Southern soul? This red snapper with creamy creole sauce recipe is a one-pan wonder straight from the heart of Creole cuisine, where flaky, tender red snapper fillets meet a dreamy blend of cream, spices, and a punchy tomato base.

I first tasted this dish on a trip to Louisiana, and I’ve been hooked ever since. The beauty lies in its balance: smoky paprika, a touch of cayenne pepper, and creamy Cajun magic all bubbling together in one skillet. Ready to impress your taste buds and your table? Let’s make this unforgettable snapper with creamy creole sauce.

What is Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce?

Imagine tender, flaky red snapper fillets seared in olive oil until golden and then bathed in a rich and spicy creole sauce. This red snapper with creamy creole sauce recipe is all about that. Creole cuisine knows how to bring bold flavors. This dish blends chopped onion, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cream cheese, and heavy cream into one creamy Cajun sauce for smooth, spicy, and full-of-soul fish.

Add a pinch of creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, and paprika, and it’s magic in a skillet. Whether you call it creole red or red snapper in creole sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder that turns simple fish into something unforgettable.

If you’re craving a hearty fish dish, you might also want to try Coconut Lime Fish Soup for another burst of flavor and seafood goodness.

Why Choose Creamy Creole Sauce?

A creamy sauce can transform a simple fish. The creamy cajun sauce adds a richness and depth that’s hard to beat. The combination of heavy cream, creole seasoning, and spice creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the red snapper fillets. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to drizzle over everything!

If you’re a fan of flavorful sauces, don’t miss out on this Sweet Tomatoes Chimichurri Pizza, where fresh herbs and a tangy sauce elevate the pizza experience.

Ingredients for Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe

For the red snapper:

• 4 red snapper fillets (about 6 oz each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Creole seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

 For the Creamy Creole Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• ½ bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Creole or Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment and Tools

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
• Fish Spatula
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Spoons/Cups
• Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula

 Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 people

How to Make Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce?

Step 1: Prep the Fish: Pat the red snapper fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, and creole seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Snapper: Place the fillets in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and flaky. Remove the fillets and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Creole Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, and creole seasoning. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine & Finish: Return the cooked red snapper fillets to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the top and let it simmer for a couple more minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Watch How to Make

Helpful Tips for Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce Recipe

1. Use the Right Cream: If you want a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half. It will still give you that creamy texture, but with less richness.
2. Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your creole sauce feels too thick, a splash of chicken broth can loosen it up nicely.
3. Prevent Sticking: When searing the red snapper fillets, make sure your skillet is hot enough. This helps the fillets get that perfect golden sear without sticking.
4. Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper depending on how spicy you want the dish. Start small, and you can always add more.
5. Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the creole sauce simmer to let all those bold flavors meld together. It’s worth the wait!
6. Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds not just a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts perfectly with the rich, spicy sauce.

For an easy-to-make side dish, try making Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad to accompany this flavorful fish dish.

What to Serve with Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce?

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. The buttery smoothness complements the rich and spicy creole sauce, soaking up all the flavor.
• Rice: A fluffy bowl of rice (white or seasoned) is perfect to balance out the heat from the spicy creole sauce. It also acts as a neutral base to enjoy the bold flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Whether it’s a baguette or rustic loaf, a slice of warm, crusty bread makes an excellent side to soak up every last bit of creamy cajun sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to!
• Grilled Vegetables: Try grilling some bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. The smokiness will add depth to your meal without overshadowing the fish.
• Shrimp or Crab: Want to go all out? Toss in some cooked shrimp or crab meat. It turns this dish into a seafood feast with everyone asking for seconds.
• Fresh Salad: A simple salad with crisp greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy, spicy dish.

FAQs about Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Can I use frozen red snapper fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen red snapper fillets. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for the best results. Thawing will help the fish cook evenly and absorb the flavor of the creole sauce.

What makes creole seasoning different from Cajun seasoning?

Creole seasoning typically includes a broader range of herbs and spices, such as thyme and basil, while Cajun seasoning focuses on heat with ingredients like paprika and cayenne pepper. Both are excellent for red snapper with creamy creole sauce.

Can I make red snapper with creamy creole sauce dairy-free?

Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, replace the cream cheese and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use a dairy-free butter substitute.

What vegetables can I add to the creole sauce for fish?

Add vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, or even okra to the creole sauce. These additions enhance the texture and flavor, making it even more vibrant and hearty.

Can I use a different type of fish for this creamy creole sauce recipe?

Absolutely! While Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is ideal, you can substitute it with other white fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock. These fish will still pair wonderfully with the creamy Cajun sauce for fish.

How can I make the creole sauce spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the creole sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

What’s the best side dish to serve with red snapper creamy creole sauce?

Red snapper with creamy creole sauce pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. For a well-rounded meal, you can also add grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

How can I store leftovers of red snapper with creamy creole sauce?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the creole sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and add the cooked red snapper fillets.

Is this red snapper with creamy creole sauce recipe spicy?

This recipe has a moderate spice, thanks to the cayenne pepper and paprika. If you prefer a milder dish, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it for a flavorful but less spicy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the delicate fish, and it’s simple enough for beginners. Try variations like Cajun Red Snapper or add more veggies for extra flavor.

Have questions or feedback? We’d love to hear from you! Don’t forget to follow Cookupp on Pinterest for a delicious mix of inspiring recipes you’ll want to try again and again!