Are you ready to ignite your taste buds and experience the bold flavors of Louisiana? Look no further than these 18 spicy blackened tilapia recipes, each bursting with the vibrant essence of Cajun cuisine. From classic dishes like Blackened Tilapia with Garlic Butter Sauce to innovative creations like Spicy Blackened Tilapia Tacos and Blackened Tilapia with Avocado Crema, this collection has something for every palate.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, these recipes will transport you straight to the heart of Cajun country. With its crispy blackened crust and tender flaky flesh, tilapia is the perfect canvas for bold flavors like cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic. So grab your apron, fire up the skillet, and get ready to experience the bold, spicy magic of Cajun cooking!
Blackened Tilapia with Garlic Butter Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make blackened tilapia dish, smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, blackening seasoning, and garlic.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle butter over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While tilapia is cooking, melt remaining butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
8. Add heavy cream and stir until smooth.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve blackened tilapia with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Blackened Tilapia Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this bold and flavorful Cajun blackened tilapia tacos recipe! This dish combines the tender flaky fish with the zesty kick of Cajun seasonings, all wrapped up in a crunchy corn tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Avocado or sour cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add tilapia fillets and coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing blackened tilapia onto tortillas, squeezing lime juice over the top, and garnishing with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and tangy combination of blackened tilapia and sweet mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp cilantro, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tilapia with blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve the blackened tilapia with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Lemon Herb Quinoa
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful dish, featuring blackened tilapia paired with a bright and citrusy lemon herb quinoa.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Lemon Herb Quinoa:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tilapia for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
5. Stir in lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley.
6. Serve blackened tilapia atop lemon herb quinoa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Blackened Tilapia Sandwich
This spicy blackened tilapia sandwich recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the delicate taste of fresh tilapia, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and tartar sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the spice mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the blackened tilapia onto the toasted rolls. Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and tartar sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Avocado Crema
Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this spicy and creamy dish. Blackened tilapia is a classic Cajun recipe that’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 cup avocado crema (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Avocado Crema Recipe:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season tilapia with blackening seasoning and cook in butter until blackened, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove from heat and squeeze lime juice over the top.
4. Serve with avocado crema spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Corn Salad
A flavorful combination of spicy blackened tilapia and sweet corn salad makes for a satisfying meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season tilapia fillets with blackening seasoning; drizzle with olive oil.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add tilapia and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve blackened tilapia on top of the corn salad, with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this zesty tilapia dish, paired with a refreshing cilantro lime rice.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cilantro Lime Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia fillets with blackening seasoning, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add tilapia and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until blackened.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions. Mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Tilapia Po’ Boy
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful Blackened Tilapia Po’ Boy recipe, featuring a crispy blackened fish patty, crispy bacon, creamy remoulade sauce, and crunchy lettuce on a soft baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 4 slices of bacon
– 4 hamburger buns or po’ boy bread
– Lettuce
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with blackening seasoning.
3. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and cook tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing blackened tilapia on the baguette, topping with bacon, lettuce, and remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Rinse tilapia fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil.
4. Coat each tilapia fillet with the blackening mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Place tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast vegetables in separate pan with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss occasionally for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Cook tilapia for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve blackened tilapia atop roasted vegetables, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Black Bean Bowl
Savor the bold flavors of this Caribbean-inspired bowl, where spicy blackened tilapia meets creamy black beans and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Dredge tilapia fillets in the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat black beans in a saucepan over medium heat with diced onion and garlic until onions are translucent.
6. Add diced red bell pepper to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. To assemble bowls, place tilapia on top of black bean mixture and garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Coconut Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional blackened fish, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with the creamy richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the spice mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat coconut oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the blackened tilapia and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the fish is cooking, prepare the coconut rice according to package instructions using coconut milk instead of water.
7. Serve the blackened tilapia atop a bed of coconut rice and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful Blackened Tilapia recipe, paired with a sweet and tangy Pineapple Salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
For the tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
For the salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and butter.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides with the blackened butter mixture.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season to taste.
6. Serve tilapia with Pineapple Salsa and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Spicy Remoulade
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful dish, featuring blackened tilapia topped with a spicy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and butter.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each fillet with the blackening mixture.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mayonnaise, green onions, jalapeño pepper, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
6. Serve tilapia topped with spicy remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Sweet Potato Hash
Experience the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with this simple and delicious recipe that combines blackened tilapia with a crispy sweet potato hash. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season tilapia fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tilapia and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss sweet potatoes with remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Serve blackened tilapia atop sweet potato hash, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Jalapeño Aioli
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened tilapia with a creamy jalapeño aioli, perfect for those who love a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jalapeño Aioli (see below for recipe)
Blackened Tilapia:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season tilapia fillets with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add tilapia fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Jalapeño Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes.
Blackened Tilapia and Zucchini Noodles
A flavorful and healthy dinner option, this recipe combines the bold flavor of blackened tilapia with the delicate taste of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tilapia and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchinis into noodles. In the same skillet, add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Serve blackened tilapia on top of zucchini noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Creole Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the rich, spicy goodness of Creole sauce. This recipe is a perfect blend of Cajun and Creole cuisine that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup Creole sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season tilapia fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add tilapia fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Creole sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with these 18 mouth-watering blackened tilapia recipes infused with Cajun flair! From classic dishes like Blackened Tilapia with Garlic Butter Sauce and Spicy Blackened Tilapia Sandwich, to innovative twists like Cajun Blackened Tilapia Tacos and Blackened Tilapia with Avocado Crema, this collection has something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold and spicy meal or a refreshing twist on traditional flavors, these recipes will transport your palate to the vibrant streets of New Orleans.
