17 Best Red Snapper Recipes

Red snapper is a popular choice for people who enjoy cooking seafood at home. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste that works well with many different ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a small gathering, red snapper can be a great addition to your meal plan. It’s a fish that fits nicely into both simple and more detailed recipes.

If you’re not sure what to make, there are many ways to prepare red snapper that are easy and don’t require a lot of time. You can keep things simple with basic seasonings or try something a bit more bold with different flavors and cooking methods. No matter how you choose to cook it, red snapper can easily become a favorite in your kitchen.

This article will guide you through some of the best red snapper recipes to try. Each one offers a different approach, so you can pick what works best for you. Whether you prefer baking, grilling, or pan-cooking, there’s something here that will help you make a good meal without too much effort. Keep reading to find the right idea for your next dish.

Pan-Fried Blackened Red Snapper

Pan-Fried Blackened Red Snapper is full of flavor and texture. The outside has a crisp finish thanks to the seasoning, while the inside stays soft and flaky. The mix of spices adds just the right amount of heat without covering up the fish’s clean, mild taste.

Each bite offers a mix of smoky and earthy flavors that work well with the natural taste of red snapper. The texture is a big part of what makes this dish stand out—crispy on the outside and tender underneath.

Baked Red Snapper with Zhoug

Baked Red Snapper with Zhoug is a simple yet bold dish that brings together fresh ingredients and a touch of heat. The fish is baked until it reaches a soft, flaky texture that pairs well with the herb-filled Zhoug sauce. Each bite carries a bit of warmth without being too strong.

The seasoning in the Zhoug adds layers of flavor that work with the snapper’s mild taste. The mix of herbs and spice gives the dish a fresh finish and a clean aftertaste. It’s a nice way to add depth without covering up the fish.

Red Snapper with Lemon Butter

Red Snapper with Lemon Butter is a simple dish that lets the natural flavor of the fish stand out. The lemon brings a light, fresh taste, while the butter adds a smooth, rich texture that coats each bite without feeling too heavy. Together, they create a clean and balanced flavor.

The sauce blends just enough sharpness from the citrus with the mildness of the snapper. It’s a soft, gentle mix that doesn’t overpower the fish but instead brings out its best qualities. The fish stays tender, and the buttery finish gives it a satisfying feel.

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce offers a perfect balance of flavors. The snapper is flaky and tender, while the creamy sauce adds a rich, spiced layer that gives the dish warmth and depth. The combination of the smooth sauce and delicate fish creates a satisfying contrast in texture.

The Creole sauce brings a touch of heat and a bold, savory taste that complements the mildness of the snapper. It’s not overwhelming, but the spices and creaminess work together to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Jamaican Escovitch Fried Red Snapper

Jamaican Escovitch Fried Red Snapper is a dish that brings together crispy fried fish and a tangy, flavorful vegetable topping. The fish is fried to perfection, giving it a satisfying crunch, while the escovitch adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the fried snapper.

The mix of pickled vegetables in the escovitch brings a tangy, fresh contrast to the deep-fried fish. It’s a combination that adds layers of flavor with every bite. The spices in the escovitch give it an exciting, lively edge without overwhelming the taste of the snapper.

Pecan Encrusted Red Snapper with a Lime Margarita Sauce

Pecan Encrusted Red Snapper with Lime Margarita Sauce offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The crunchy pecan coating adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the delicate, flaky snapper. Each bite provides a satisfying crunch followed by the soft, tender fish beneath.

The tangy lime margarita sauce brings a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the pecan crust. Its zesty finish perfectly balances the dish, enhancing the snapper without overpowering it. The combination of the two elements creates a bright and flavorful meal.

Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs

Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs is a light and flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of the fish. The snapper is baked until perfectly flaky, allowing the garlic and fresh herbs to infuse the fish with a subtle, aromatic flavor. It’s a meal that feels fresh and satisfying without being heavy.

The combination of garlic and herbs creates a simple yet delicious seasoning that enhances the fish’s delicate taste. The aroma from the herbs fills the air as the fish cooks, adding to the overall experience of this dish. Each bite is a balance of soft, tender fish with a hint of savory herbs.

Cajun-Inspired Blackened Red Snapper

Cajun-Inspired Blackened Red Snapper is a bold and flavorful dish that takes seafood to the next level. The fish is coated with a spicy Cajun seasoning and seared to perfection, creating a crispy, flavorful crust. The seasoning adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the natural taste of the snapper.

As the fish cooks, the seasoning seals in the moisture, keeping the inside tender and juicy. The contrast between the crispy exterior and soft interior makes each bite satisfying, with a burst of spices that adds excitement to the dish.

Red Snapper and Tomato Fish Soup

Red Snapper and Tomato Fish Soup is a light yet flavorful dish that combines tender snapper with a rich tomato broth. The fish simmers perfectly in the tomato base, absorbing all the savory flavors, while the freshness of the tomatoes gives the soup a bright, tangy finish. Each spoonful brings a comforting warmth, ideal for cozy evenings.

The dish is simple but satisfying, with the natural sweetness of the red snapper balancing beautifully against the acidity of the tomatoes. The broth is flavorful without being overwhelming, allowing the fish to remain the star of the dish.

Red Snapper Livornese

Red Snapper Livornese is a delightful Italian dish that brings the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. The tender snapper is cooked in a rich sauce made with tomatoes, olives, and capers, creating a savory, slightly tangy flavor profile. The combination of ingredients infuses the fish with a burst of taste, making each bite a satisfying experience.

The tomatoes offer a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the briny olives and capers, while the fish remains tender and flaky. The sauce enhances the fish’s mild flavor, adding depth and a pleasant contrast without overpowering it.

Mediterranean Baked Whole Red Snapper Fish

Mediterranean Baked Whole Red Snapper is a flavorful and healthy dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. The red snapper is baked whole, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a simple yet elegant option for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal. ​

The fish is seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, enhancing its natural taste without overpowering it. Baking the fish whole helps retain its moisture, resulting in tender, flaky flesh that’s both satisfying and nutritious. ​

Veracruz-Style Red Snapper

Veracruz-Style Red Snapper is a flavorful dish that combines the mildness of red snapper with a zesty sauce made from tomatoes, olives, capers, and jalapeño peppers. This combination creates a savory and slightly tangy flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the fish. The dish is typically baked, allowing the flavors to meld together while keeping the fish tender and flaky.​

The sauce, often seasoned with oregano, adds depth and a hint of earthiness to the dish. The inclusion of olives and capers introduces a briny contrast, balancing the richness of the snapper. Jalapeño peppers provide a mild heat, giving the dish a subtle kick without overwhelming the palate.​

Baked Red Snapper Tacos

Baked Red Snapper Tacos are a fresh and flavorful take on a classic dish. The red snapper is baked to perfection, resulting in tender, flaky fish that retains its natural juices. This method ensures the fish remains moist and delicious, perfect for tacos.

To make these tacos, simply place the baked fish in soft tortillas and add your favorite toppings. Fresh ingredients like cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime elevate the flavor profile, while a creamy sauce brings a smooth contrast to the spices.

Red Snapper en Papillote

Red Snapper en Papillote is a flavorful dish that captures the essence of fresh fish. The red snapper is gently baked in parchment paper, allowing it to steam in its own juices, which keeps it moist and tender. The result is a light, clean taste that highlights the fish’s natural flavor.

This dish is enhanced by the addition of aromatic herbs and fresh citrus, which infuse the fish with a delicate, refreshing flavor. Vegetables like fennel or bok choy complement the snapper, adding a slight crunch and balancing the dish perfectly.

Grilled Whole Snapper with Mint Chimichurri

Grilled Whole Snapper with Mint Chimichurri is a vibrant and flavorful dish. The smoky char from grilling the whole fish enhances its natural taste, while the mint chimichurri sauce adds a refreshing, herbal kick. The combination of mint, parsley, garlic, and red wine vinegar creates a tangy contrast that perfectly complements the rich flavor of the snapper.

This dish offers a delightful balance of savory and zesty notes with each bite. The grilled fish remains moist and tender, making it an ideal choice for a casual dinner or outdoor gathering.

Red Snapper Ceviche

Red Snapper Ceviche is a refreshing dish that combines the delicate flavor of fresh red snapper with a zesty citrus marinade. The fish is marinated in a blend of lime and lemon juices, allowing it to “cook” and absorb the vibrant flavors. This method results in tender, flavorful fish that’s both light and satisfying.​

The addition of fresh vegetables like red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and jalapeño provides a crunchy texture and a hint of heat, balancing the citrusy tang. A touch of garlic and cumin adds depth to the flavor profile, while cilantro and olive oil bring freshness and richness.​

Whole Roasted Red Snapper with Potatoes and Asparagus

Whole Roasted Red Snapper with Potatoes and Asparagus is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings out the natural flavors of the fish. The snapper is roasted whole, allowing its delicate taste to shine through, while the potatoes and asparagus add a hearty and fresh contrast. The combination of herbs and garlic infuses the fish with a rich aroma, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

The roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, providing a satisfying texture that complements the flaky fish. The asparagus adds a touch of earthiness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the snapper.