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Creamy Cajun Snapper Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

A rich and comforting one-pan Creamy Cajun Snapper dish featuring tender red snapper fillets simmered in a velvety Cajun-spiced cream sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Snapper

  • 4 portions red snapper (about 4 oz each)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  2. Season the fish: Pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season generously on all sides with Cajun seasoning for a flavorful crust.
  3. Sear the snapper: Place the snapper in the hot oil and sear each side for about 2 minutes, ensuring a golden crust forms on all four sides. Once seared, transfer the snapper to a plate. Discard the used oil and wipe the skillet clean to prepare for the sauce.
  4. Make the sauce: Add butter to the cleaned skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chicken stock, drained diced tomatoes, cubed cream cheese, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for approximately 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Finish the dish: Return the seared red snapper fillets to the skillet with the sauce. Heat for 2 minutes to warm the fish through and allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Spoon the creamy Cajun sauce generously over the snapper fillets, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot. Excellent when served with rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps achieve a better sear and crust.
  • Use low-sodium chicken stock to keep sodium levels in check and control the flavor.
  • If cream cheese is unavailable, substitute with mascarpone or a mild soft cheese.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
  • Make sure to wipe the skillet clean after searing to prevent burnt bits from affecting the sauce’s texture and taste.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Red Snapper
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/creamy-cajun-snapper-recipe/