If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and has that irresistible crusty exterior, you are going to love this Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe. This dish is the perfect balance of smoky, spicy seasoning paired with delicate, flaky mahi mahi fillets. It’s quick to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality taste that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or treating yourself on the weekend, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that feels special and satisfying every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making your Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe shine. From the fresh fish to the perfectly balanced homemade seasoning, every item adds texture, flavor, or a pop of color that makes this dish so memorable.
- 1 pound mahi mahi: Choose fresh or thawed fillets for the best, flaky texture.
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning: Homemade blend brings magic to the flavor profile with a bold, spicy kick.
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon salt (optional): Enhances all the spices and brings out the natural fish flavors.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (or oil): Essential for that rich sear and perfectly crispy crust.
- Lemon wedges (optional): Adds a bright, zesty finish that complements the spices.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh herbal touch and a beautiful pop of green on your plate.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Adds smokiness and color to the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: A classic spice that adds depth and aroma.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Enhances the slight sweetness and rounds out the seasoning blend.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper: Gives a sharp warmth that lights up the taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy note that elevates the spice mix.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For that essential heat that makes blackened fish so exciting.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Contributes a subtle floral herbaceousness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Wraps the spices together with its slightly bitter and savory tone.
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional): Balances out the seasoning and boosts flavor.
How to Make Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blackened Seasoning
Start by making your homemade blackened seasoning blend. Combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, cayenne pepper, basil, oregano, and salt creates an aromatic spice mix that’s bursting with flavor. Mix these well in a small bowl or, even better, store them in a glass jar for easy use later. This seasoning is the heart of your Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe, so take a moment to really mix it thoroughly.
Step 2: Prep the Mahi Mahi
Next, cut your mahi mahi into four equal fillets if it isn’t already portioned. Pat each piece dry with a paper towel—this step is key to getting that signature crust when cooking. Dry fish allows the seasoning to stick better and helps the fish sear beautifully rather than steam.
Step 3: Season the Fillets
Sprinkle the blackened seasoning generously over each fillet, rubbing it in with your fingers to ensure every inch is coated. If your seasoning mix doesn’t have salt, add a pinch at this stage. This step locks in the bold, spicy flavors and ensures that bite of heat and smokiness with every mouthful.
Step 4: Cook the Fish
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter or add your oil. It’s important to let it get hot so you can achieve that deliciously crisp, blackened exterior. Place the fillets skin side up in the pan and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes without moving them – this helps develop that perfect crust. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Once cooked, your Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe is ready to wow. Serve it immediately while the crust is still crisp and the fish is tender inside. Don’t forget those lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
How to Serve Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley not only add a gorgeous splash of green but also introduce a fresh herbaceous note that cuts through the spicy crust. A squeeze of lemon juice right before eating enhances the flavors with a lively contrast and bright acidity, perfectly balancing the rich, buttery fish.
Side Dishes
This blackened fish pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides. Think fluffy jasmine rice, tangy coleslaw, or a crisp garden salad. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort without overpowering the bold seasoning of the mahi mahi.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your blackened mahi mahi over a bed of warm quinoa tossed with citrus segments and fresh herbs to add texture and a flavor burst. Alternatively, turn it into tacos by flaking the fish and topping with avocado slices, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema. These creative presentations keep the dish exciting and perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your blackened mahi mahi will stay delicious for up to two days, making for a great next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked blackened mahi mahi by wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best to consume frozen leftovers within one month to maintain maximum flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the fish in a skillet over low heat or in a low-temperature oven to avoid drying out the fillets. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the fish rubbery. A slow, gentle reheating preserves that beautiful crust and sumptuous flakiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe?
Absolutely! While mahi mahi is fantastic for its firm texture and mild flavor, you can substitute with other firm white fish like swordfish, snapper, or even salmon. Just adjust cooking times depending on thickness.
Is the homemade blackened seasoning very spicy?
The homemade seasoning has a balanced heat thanks to cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference. It’s spicy, but not overwhelming, making it perfect for most palates.
Do I need to use butter for cooking, or can I use oil?
Butter adds wonderful richness and flavor, but you can substitute with a high smoke point oil like avocado or grapeseed oil if preferred, especially if you want a slightly healthier option or a crispier crust.
How do I know when the mahi mahi is cooked through?
Mahi mahi is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Depending on thickness, this usually takes around 7 to 9 minutes total on the stove.
Can I prepare the blackened seasoning in advance?
Yes! Making the blackened seasoning ahead of time is convenient and keeps well in an airtight container for several weeks. Having it ready makes whipping up the Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe even faster.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. It strikes the perfect balance between spicy heat and fresh, buttery fish that’s as delicious as it is simple to make. So grab your skillet, gather those ingredients, and prepare to delight your taste buds with a taste sensation that feels both comforting and adventurous at the same time. Happy cooking!
Print
Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Blackened Mahi Mahi recipe features perfectly seasoned and pan-seared mahi mahi fillets with a spicy, smoky blackened seasoning blend. Cooked in a cast-iron skillet with butter, this dish delivers flavorful, crispy edges and tender, flaky fish. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an easy, impressive seafood dinner ideal for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 1 pound mahi mahi
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning (see recipe below)
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (or oil)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Homemade Blackened Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackened Seasoning: In a small bowl or storage jar, thoroughly mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and salt if using. Set aside.
- Prepare the Mahi Mahi: Cut the mahi mahi into 4 equal-sized filets and pat each piece dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear.
- Season the Fish: Sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over the mahi mahi filets and rub it into the surface. Add salt if your seasoning mix does not already include it.
- Cook the Mahi Mahi: Heat the butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is fully melted and hot, about 1 minute. Place the mahi mahi filets in the skillet skin side-up and cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them to develop a crispy crust.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the filets over and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Plate the blackened mahi mahi and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for best heat retention and optimal blackening.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount in the seasoning to suit your preferred spice level.
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps achieve a better sear.
- Butter can be substituted with oil for a dairy-free option.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
