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Blackened Fish Recipe

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3.9 from 14 reviews

This Blackened Fish recipe features perfectly seasoned fish filets cooked in a hot cast iron skillet with butter, delivering a flavorful, spicy crust with tender, flaky fish inside. Easy to prepare in just 11 minutes, it is ideal for a quick and delicious dinner that serves 4.

  • Total Time: 11 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fish and Seasonings

  • 1 lb fish filets (3-4 filets)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, up to 1/2 tsp to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking

  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. Mix the Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix thoroughly to create your blackening spice blend.
  2. Season the Fish Filets: Lay the fish filets flat on a plate. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over one side of each filet and gently pat the seasoning to adhere. Flip the filets and repeat seasoning the other side. For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the seasoned fish for up to one hour before cooking.
  3. Preheat the Skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet over high heat and allow it to heat for 2-3 minutes until very hot. Then, reduce the heat to medium-high and add the butter to the skillet.
  4. Add Fish to Skillet: As the butter melts and begins to brown but does not smoke, season the fish with salt and black pepper. Carefully lay the filets flat in the skillet without overcrowding, cooking in batches if necessary to maintain heat.
  5. Cook the Fish: Let the fish cook undisturbed on the first side for 2-3 minutes to form a blackened crust. Flip the fish carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches about 145˚F and the fish flakes easily.
  6. Serve: Remove the fish from the skillet to prevent further cooking. Serve immediately while warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Notes

  • Use fresh fish filets like catfish, redfish, or tilapia for best results.
  • Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure proper searing and blackening.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control spice level.
  • Allow the fish to rest briefly after cooking for optimal texture and juiciness.
  • Cast iron skillet is preferred for even heat retention and crust formation.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/blackened-fish-recipe/