Cinnamon Free Blackened Tilapia

Total time20 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time10 min

4.8

(21)

Bold, smoky, and deeply satisfying, this cast-iron tilapia delivers serious restaurant-level flavor with a crust that crackles when you cut into it. The blackening spice blend is built from smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, oregano, and cayenne — a punchy combination that brings all the heat and complexity you want without a trace of cinnamon sneaking in. That matters more than you might think, since pre-made blackening seasonings and Cajun blends almost always include it, making store-bought shortcuts a minefield for anyone who needs to avoid it. Here, you control every ingredient in that spice mix, so there are no surprises. Garlic-infused oil and a finishing knob of butter keep the fish rich and moist while the screaming-hot cast-iron pan does the heavy lifting, building that signature charred bark in just a few minutes per side. A squeeze of lemon and a handful of sliced scallion greens at the end cut through the richness and brighten the whole plate. It's the kind of weeknight dinner that looks and tastes like you really tried, even when you didn't.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

4 servings

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp garlic-infused oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the blackening spice

2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt

For serving

2 scallions, green tops only, thinly sliced (optional)
1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions

1
Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels.
2
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!