
GAS GRILLED RECIPES OF LA. REDFISH
Louisiana redfish—firm, mildly sweet, and rich in natural oils—grills beautifully, especially when cooked “on the half-shell,” meaning the fillets are left attached to their skin and scales. This technique protects the delicate flesh from burning, keeps it moist, and gives the meat time to absorb smoky flavors and seasonings. With bold Cajun spices, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish represents the heart of Louisiana outdoor cooking: simple preparations, big flavor, and a bit of fire.
Ingredients
For the Redfish
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2 large redfish fillets, on the half-shell (scales and skin intact)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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4 garlic cloves, finely minced
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Zest of ½ lemon
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh green onion
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1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Kosher salt, to taste
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Lemon slices, for grilling
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Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme, or green onion tops)
Optional Extras
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Hot sauce (Louisiana-style) for serving
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A drizzle of garlic butter
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A spoonful of crabmeat sautéed in butter to top the fish (very Louisiana)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Grill
Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (400–425°F / 205–220°C).
Turn on at least two burners to create a hot zone and a medium zone.
Brush the grates clean and lightly oil them.
Redfish on the half-shell does not get flipped—just place it skin-side down on the grill and let the heat work upward.
2. Make the Cajun Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine:
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Melted butter
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Olive oil
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Minced garlic
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Lemon juice and zest
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Parsley
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Green onion
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Thyme
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Cajun seasoning
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Smoked paprika
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Black pepper
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Red pepper flakes (if using)
Whisk until the mixture forms a fragrant, richly seasoned sauce.
3. Season the Redfish
Place the redfish fillets on a baking sheet or large platter, flesh side up.
Pat dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres.
Sprinkle lightly with kosher salt, then spoon or brush the Cajun garlic butter mixture generously over the fillets, letting it drip into the natural crevices of the flesh.
Let the fillets sit 5–10 minutes while the butter melts in and the grill finishes heating.
4. Grill the Redfish on the Half-Shell
Place the fillets skin-side down directly over the medium-high zone of the grill.
Close the lid and cook for 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness.
You don’t flip redfish on the half-shell.
Instead, the skin and scales act like a natural cooking pan, keeping moisture inside and ensuring the fish cooks evenly.
The fish is done when:
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It flakes easily with a fork
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The top forms a golden crust from the butter
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The edges bubble gently with Cajun-spiced juices
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Internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C)
If you want light smoke flavor, toss a small handful of soaked wood chips onto a stainless steel smoker box inside the gas grill.
5. Add Finishing Touches
Move the cooked fillets to a platter.
Brush with a final spoonful of melted butter or drizzle with hot sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices.
For a true Louisiana touch, top with:
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Warm sautéed lump crabmeat
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A sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning
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A splash of citrus butter sauce
Serving Suggestions (Louisiana Style)
Serve your gas-grilled redfish with classic Gulf Coast sides such as:
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Dirty rice or Cajun rice dressing
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Jambalaya or Creole red beans and rice
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Corn maque choux (a spicy Cajun corn relish)
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Grilled or blackened okra
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Garlic French bread or toasted baguette
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Coleslaw with Creole mustard dressing
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Potato salad with smoked paprika
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Grilled Gulf shrimp skewers
Tips for Authentic Louisiana Flavor
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Don’t overcook the fish. Redfish is at its best when moist and flaky.
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Use a good Cajun seasoning blend—one with paprika, garlic, cayenne, black pepper, and herbs.
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Leave the skin and scales on. This protects the delicate flesh and gives a beautiful smoked flavor.
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Baste often if you want a deeply buttery Cajun crust.
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Add wood chips (pecan, hickory, or oak) even in a gas grill for a rustic Louisiana aroma.
- 1 (12-15 lb.) LA. redfish
- 2 tsp. minced garlic
- 2 tsp. lemon juice
- 1 1/2 sticks butter
- Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning
- 1 tsp. hot sauce (optional)
GAS GRILLED RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
Take all other ingredients and blend together in saucepan.
Add Tony's. Garnish and serve with hush puppies and French fries or whatever you like.
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