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Blackened Tilapia Recipe with Creamy Cajun Sauce Easy and Flavorful

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A quick and easy blackened tilapia recipe featuring a smoky, spicy crust paired with a creamy, tangy Cajun sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish balances bold flavors with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each; fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for searing
  • Blackening Spice Mix:
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Creamy Cajun Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • A few dashes hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the blackening spice mix by combining smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix well.
  2. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly brush each fillet with about 1/2 tablespoon olive oil on both sides.
  3. Coat the fish generously with the blackening spice mix on both sides, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Make the creamy Cajun sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce (if using), and minced garlic in a small bowl. Chill in the fridge while cooking the fish.
  5. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly.
  6. Place the tilapia fillets in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until edges turn opaque and a dark crust forms.
  7. Flip the fillets gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking.
  8. Serve immediately with a generous dollop of creamy Cajun sauce on top or on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Patting the fish dry before seasoning is key to forming a good crust. Preheat the skillet properly and use enough oil to prevent burning the spices. Flip the fish only once to maintain the crust. The creamy Cajun sauce can be made ahead and chilled. For a lighter sauce, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo. Keep cooked fillets warm in a low oven if cooking in batches.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened tilapia, creamy Cajun sauce, quick fish recipe, easy dinner, spicy fish, healthy seafood, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/blackened-tilapia-recipe-with-creamy-cajun-sauce-easy-and-flavorful/