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Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Delicate, flaky red snapper perfectly complemented by a rich, creamy Creole sauce with aromatic spices, a hint of heat, and subtle tang. Ready in 40 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Creole, Southern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 red snapper fillets 6-ounce each, skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth low sodium recommended
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter optional
  • Cooked rice for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet (preferably non-stick)
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, sprinkle the flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly browned and forms a smooth paste (this is the roux). Continuously stir to prevent burning.
  3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, adding a little at a time and whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Once the broth is incorporated, stir in the heavy cream, Creole seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper if using.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. If using butter, stir it into the sauce now. Gently place the red snapper fillets in the sauce. Don't overcrowd the pan - cook in batches if necessary. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
  6. Stir in the chopped parsley. Serve the red snapper immediately over cooked rice. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

Look for fresh, sustainably sourced red snapper. Don't overcrowd the pan - work in batches if needed. It's better to slightly undercook than overcook the fish. Taste the sauce frequently and adjust seasonings. Other white fish like cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi can be substituted. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half. Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free option. Sauce can be made ahead and stored in refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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