Baked Cajun Fish Recipe ๐๐ถ๏ธ
Overview:
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Bayou with this delectable Baked Cajun Fish recipe. Perfect for potlucks, this dish is bursting with spicy Cajun goodness and is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for feeding large groups. With a blend of aromatic spices and zesty lemon juice, each bite promises a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Let’s dive into the recipe!
- Name: Baked Cajun Fish
- Category: Cajun
- Keywords: Potluck, Spicy, < 30 Mins, For Large Groups, Oven, Easy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 25
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
2 | Paprika |
2 | Garlic |
2 | Cayenne |
1 | White pepper |
1 | Oregano |
1 | Thyme |
1 | Butter |
10 | Margarine |
3/4 | Lemon juice |
1/2 | Salt |
Instructions:
-
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Grease two 11×14 inch baking pans to prevent the fish from sticking.
-
Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic, cayenne, white pepper, oregano, and thyme. This flavorful blend will be the essence of your Cajun seasoning.
-
Prepare the Fish:
- Place the fish portions evenly into the greased baking pans, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You want each piece to have enough space to cook evenly.
-
Season and Drizzle:
- Sprinkle the lemon juice over each pan of fish, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the prepared Cajun seasoning generously over the fish, covering each piece for maximum flavor.
- Melt the margarine and drizzle it over the seasoned fish. This will add richness and moisture to the dish as it bakes.
-
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Keep an eye on the fish as it bakes to prevent overcooking. You want it to be tender and moist, with just the right amount of flakiness.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the pans from the oven and allow the fish to cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve hot alongside your favorite sides, such as rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad, and watch as your guests delight in the irresistible flavors of this Baked Cajun Fish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 51.4
- Total Fat: 5.6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 14.6mg
- Sodium: 39.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 0.7g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.1g
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. For an extra kick, increase the amount of cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Fish Selection: Opt for firm, white fish fillets such as cod, tilapia, or halibut for best results. These varieties hold up well to baking and absorb the Cajun flavors beautifully.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the Cajun seasoning mix in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a month. When ready to bake, simply sprinkle over the fish and proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick dipping sauce using mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.
With its easy preparation and irresistible taste, this Baked Cajun Fish recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply craving a flavorful meal, this dish delivers on both taste and convenience. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Louisiana with every savory bite!