Blackened redfish is a Louisiana classic that brings bold flavors and a crispy, charred crust to your table. Paired with a rich and zesty Cajun butter, this dish is a perfect combination of spice, smokiness, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to add a little Southern flair to your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Blackened Redfish:

2 redfish fillets (or any firm white fish like snapper or grouper)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon white pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

Lemon wedges, for serving


For the Cajun Butter:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Pinch of salt


Instructions

Preparing the Fish:

  1. Pat the redfish fillets dry with a paper towel.

  2. In a small bowl, mix together all the blackening seasonings.

  3. Brush both sides of the fish fillets with melted butter, then coat generously with the seasoning mixture.

  4. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot.

  5. Add the olive oil, then place the fish fillets in the skillet, flesh-side down.

  6. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the outside is blackened and crispy while the inside remains moist and flaky.

  7. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Making the Cajun Butter:

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.

  2. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.

  3. Let it simmer for a minute to meld the flavors, then remove from heat.

Serving the Dish:

Drizzle the Cajun butter over the blackened redfish and serve immediately with lemon wedges. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

Blackened redfish with Cajun butter is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that captures the heart of Southern cuisine. With its smoky, spicy crust and rich buttery finish, it’s a must-try for seafood lovers. Give it a go, and enjoy a taste of Louisiana right at home!