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Keto Dinner

Cajun Style Blackened Snapper

Blackened snapper brings the vibrant heat of Cajun cooking right to your keto table. A quick sear in cast iron locks in moisture while building a deeply spiced crust. I find it’s the perfect way to satisfy bold cravings without compromising your macros.

10 min Prep time 15 min Cook time 25 min Total time 4 Servings 320 Calories
Cajun Style Blackened Snapper

Ingredients

  • paprika
  • cayenne pepper
  • ground white pepper
  • ground black pepper
  • salt
  • onion powder
  • garlic powder
  • dried thyme
  • dried oregano
  • red snapper fillets
  • butter

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Start by combining all dry spices in a small bowl—paprika, cayenne, white and black pepper, salt, onion and garlic powders, thyme, and oregano. Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat for a full 10 minutes

  2. Step 2

    it needs to be screaming hot. Meanwhile, melt the butter and dip each snapper fillet, then coat both sides generously with the spice mix. When the skillet is ready, lay the fillets in carefully and drizzle a tablespoon of butter over each. Let them cook undisturbed until the underside forms a dark, blackened crust, about 3 to 5 minutes. Flip with a sturdy spatula, add another tablespoon of butter per fillet, and continue cooking for about 2 minutes, until the fish flakes easily. I always make sure my pan is thoroughly preheated

  3. Step 3

    otherwise, you won’t get that signature char. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Chef's Tip

I let the fillets sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking—cold fish seizes up and won’t blacken as evenly. Also, open windows or turn on the exhaust fan; this gets smoky!

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter to maintain moisture—skip the microwave, which can turn the fish rubbery.

Variation Tips

Swap snapper for salmon or chicken breast, adjusting cook time as needed. Pair with cauliflower rice or a crisp side salad to round out the meal, and dial the cayenne up or down to suit your heat tolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions