Redfish, also known as red drum or channel bass, is a popular game fish found in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Atlantic coast. Known for its mild, sweet flavor and firm texture, redfish is delicious when prepared simply and makes a hearty and healthy meal. Here are some of the most popular ways to cook this flavorful fish.
1. How To Cook Redfish in Oven
Ingredients
- 2 redfish fillets, scaled with backbone butterflied
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Brush redfish fillets with olive oil and season well with salt, pepper, paprika and thyme.
Place fillets skin-side down in a baking dish.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
Serve with lemon wedges.
The mild sweet flavor of redfish is perfectly complemented by simple seasoning and oven baking. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious baked fish dinner.
2. How To Cook Redfish on Grill
Ingredients
- 4 redfish fillets, 1 inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 1⁄2 tsp pepper
- Lemon slices
Instructions
Rinse fillets, pat dry and brush with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Grill on medium-high heat 4-5 minutes per side until opaque and flaky.
Baste with melted butter last 2 minutes if desired.
Serve with grilled lemon slices.
The high heat of the grill sears in moisture and infuses the fish with smoky aroma. Redfish and grilling are a perfect pair for easy al fresco dining.
3. How To Cook Redfish on Stove
Ingredients
- 2 redfish fillets
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Pat fillets dry and season with paprika, salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook fillets 3-4 minutes per side.
Place skillet in a 400°F oven 2-3 minutes until fish flakes easily.
Serve fillets with lemon wedges.
Pan-searing keeps the redfish moist inside while crisping up the outside for texture contrast in each bite. The paprika gives a mildly spicy, smoky flavor.
4. How To Cook Redfish in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb redfish fillets, cut into 1” chunks
- 1⁄4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1⁄2 tsp pepper
- Oil cooking spray
Instructions
Pat fish pieces dry and coat with seasoned cornstarch.
Lightly spray with oil and place in air fryer basket in single layer.
Cook at 400°F for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and fish flakes easily.
Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
The air fryer uses super hot circulating air to give the breaded redfish pieces a deliciously crispy texture without the unnecessary extra calories and mess of deep frying.
Redfish is a versatile fish that pairs well with simple seasonings and many cooking methods. Bake, grill, pan-sear or air fry for easy, delicious meals that highlight the mild flavor of this Southern favorite.
