Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe
Introduction
Blackened Mahi Mahi is a flavorful, spicy dish that brings a bold twist to a mild, flaky fish. This easy recipe combines smoky and spicy seasonings to create a delicious crust while keeping the fish tender inside.

Ingredients
- 4 Mahi Mahi fillets – thawed
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. oregano
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F and line a sheet pan with foil. Coat the foil with 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Step 2: Place the thawed Mahi Mahi fillets on the oiled foil in a single layer.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt to make the blackening spice blend.
- Step 4: Thoroughly coat both sides of each fillet with the spice mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Step 5: Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 137 degrees F.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Pair with your favorite aioli or remoulade sauce for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of chipotle powder to the spice mix.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon or omit it entirely.
- Serve with a fresh squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.
- Try pan-searing the fillets instead of baking for a crispier crust.
Storage
Store any leftover blackened Mahi Mahi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or skillet to avoid drying out the fish. For best texture, consume immediately after cooking.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Mahi Mahi for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the fillets and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps the spices stick and ensures even cooking.
What can I serve with blackened Mahi Mahi?
This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Creamy sauces like remoulade or aioli complement the bold spices perfectly.
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Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe
- Total Time: 20-22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Blackened Mahi Mahi recipe delivers a perfectly seasoned, flavorful fish fillet with a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy crust. Baked to flaky perfection, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that pairs well with a variety of sauces like aioli or remoulade.
Ingredients
Fish and Oil
- 4 Mahi Mahi fillets – thawed
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
Blackening Spice Mix
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. oregano
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for optimal baking temperature that crisps the blackened spices.
- Prepare Pan: Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and generously coat it with 3 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Arrange Fish: Place the thawed Mahi Mahi fillets onto the oiled foil evenly spaced for thorough cooking.
- Mix Spices: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the garlic powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt to create the blackening seasoning blend.
- Season Fish: Generously and evenly coat both sides of each Mahi Mahi fillet with the blackening spice mixture, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Bake: Place the seasoned fillets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and the internal temperature reaches 137 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Serve: Remove the fish from the oven and serve immediately with your preferred accompaniments such as roasted chili aioli or remoulade sauce for a delicious finish.
Notes
- Ensure the fish is fully thawed before seasoning and cooking for even heat distribution.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Use a food-safe thermometer to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges to add brightness to the dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Blackened Mahi Mahi, baked fish recipe, spicy fish, easy seafood dinner, smoky fish fillet

