Get ready to sink your teeth into some mouth-watering crispy fried red snapper dishes! With a wide range of flavors and spices to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these 18 delicious recipe ideas. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or richly flavored, we’ve got you covered.
From classic Southern-style buttermilk batter to bold and zesty Thai chili lime seasoning, each recipe offers a unique twist on traditional fried fish. And don’t even get us started on the dipping sauces – from creamy garlic aioli to sweet and spicy remoulade, there’s something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most mouthwatering crispy fried red snapper recipes out there, complete with step-by-step instructions and stunning visuals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Spicy Cajun Fried Red Snapper
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the freshness of red snapper with the bold flavors of Cajun spices, resulting in a crispy and spicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each red snapper fillet in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Place the fried fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and keep warm in the oven.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Fried Red Snapper
A flavorful and elegant dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the delicate taste of red snapper, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place the red snapper fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Fried Red Snapper
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and aromatic Lemon Herb Fried Red Snapper recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lemon-herb butter (see below)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Lemon-Herb Butter:
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the lemon-herb butter by mixing all ingredients together.
3. Season the red snapper fillets with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet into the flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the fillets in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve immediately with a pat of lemon-herb butter on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Beer-Battered Red Snapper
Enjoy a flavorful and crispy fish dish with this simple recipe that combines the richness of beer with the sweetness of red snapper. Perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold beer
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
3. Pour in beer and stir until batter forms.
4. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Jamaican Jerk Fried Red Snapper
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this crispy fried red snapper dish, infused with the aromatic spices of jerk seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp jerk seasoning
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated fish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Coconut Crusted Fried Red Snapper
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this crispy and juicy Coconut Crusted Fried Red Snapper recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snappers (6 oz each), scaled and cleaned
– 1 cup coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut flakes, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, lime juice, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each red snapper into the egg mixture, coating evenly, then roll in the coconut-panko mixture to coat.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the coated red snappers for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Place the fried fish on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to crisp up the coating.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Chili Lime Fried Red Snapper
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this spicy and zesty recipe that combines the freshness of lime, the heat of chili peppers, and the flaky goodness of red snapper. This dish is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup Thai red chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes, garlic, and lime zest.
3. Add the red snapper fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the vegetable oil, chili-garlic mixture, and lime juice to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Return the red snapper fillets to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Southern Style Buttermilk Fried Red Snapper
A classic Southern twist on traditional fried fish, this recipe combines the tender flakes of red snapper with a crispy buttermilk crust and a hint of spice. Perfect for a comforting dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each red snapper fillet into the buttermilk mixture, coating completely.
3. Dredge the coated fish in the flour mixture (flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper), pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Panko Crusted Fried Red Snapper
A crispy Panko crust elevates the tender and flavorful red snapper, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Fried Red Snapper
A spicy twist on traditional fried fish, this Blackened Fried Red Snapper recipe combines the crispy texture of a southern-style fry with the bold flavors of blackening seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the blackened fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Creole Fried Red Snapper with Remoulade
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana’s Creole cuisine with this recipe for pan-seared red snapper, crisply fried to perfection and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each snapper fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the snapper fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with remoulade sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Fried Red Snapper Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico and the Caribbean with this unique fusion recipe. Crispy fried red snapper, juicy mango salsa, and a hint of lime come together to create a mouthwatering taco.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Tortillas, lime wedges, and cilantro for serving
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each snapper fillet into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fillets in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing fried snapper onto tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Red Snapper with Garlic Aioli
Experience the perfect blend of crispy and tender with this mouthwatering Fried Red Snapper dish, paired with a creamy Garlic Aioli dipping sauce. This recipe is sure to become a favorite among seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tbsp lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Heat 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fillets for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix Garlic Aioli ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve fried red snapper with Garlic Aioli dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Red Snapper Sandwich with Slaw
A classic Southern-inspired sandwich that combines the crispy fried goodness of red snapper fish, creamy coleslaw, and soft white bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw recipe (see below)
Coleslaw Recipe:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge red snapper fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry the fish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Drain on paper towels and toast hamburger buns.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing a piece of fried red snapper on each bun, followed by a spoonful of coleslaw.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Red Snapper with Sweet Chili Sauce
This recipe combines the tender flaky fish of red snapper with a sweet and spicy kick from the chili sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge the red snapper fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve the fried red snapper with sweet chili sauce spooned over the top.
6. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Red Snapper with Herb Tartar Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of crunchy and flaky in this mouthwatering dish. The combination of pan-seared red snapper, crispy breading, and zesty herb tartar sauce is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh herbs: parsley, dill, and chives
– Mayonnaise
– Lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated fish in hot oil (375°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Mix chopped fresh herbs with mayonnaise and lemon juice for tartar sauce.
6. Serve fried red snapper with herb tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Red Snapper with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering dish that combines crispy fried fish with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge fish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fish in hot oil until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Drain on paper towels.
5. To make Pineapple Salsa, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve fried fish with warm Pineapple Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Red Snapper with Spicy Mayo
This recipe combines the crispy delight of fried fish with the creamy kick of spicy mayonnaise, making it a perfect addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge fish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise and sriracha sauce in a bowl.
5. Serve fried fish with spicy mayo for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into the bold flavors of crispy fried red snapper with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From spicy Cajun to coconut crusted, and from garlic butter to Thai chili lime, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Southern-style buttermilk, Jamaican jerk, or blackened for a flavorful twist. Or go classic with beer-battered, panko crusted, or good old-fashioned fried. And don’t forget the dips – from remoulade to garlic aioli and sweet chili sauce. With these recipes, you’ll be hooked on crispy fried red snapper all year round!