Indulgent and Irresistible: Salmon and Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce
If you’re looking for a quick yet restaurant-quality seafood dinner, Salmon and Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce is your new weeknight hero. This dish brings together two seafood favorites—tender, flaky salmon and juicy shrimp—coated in a luscious, Cajun-spiced cream sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just diving into the world of seafood recipes, this meal is approachable, luxurious, and packed with bold flavor.
This recipe is perfect for families, date nights, or a cozy dinner for one with plenty of leftovers. Best of all? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste or sophistication.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Only 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- Minimal ingredients: You probably have most items in your pantry already.
- Restaurant-worthy flavor: Creamy, spicy, and comforting.
- Versatile: Pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread.
- Customizable: Great base recipe with lots of room for variation.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 salmon fillets
- 10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you get cooking, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Large skillet (preferably nonstick or stainless steel)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs
- Grater (for fresh Parmesan)
- Serving plates or bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season Your Seafood
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets and shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Massage the spices into the flesh to help them absorb the flavor. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Pro Tip: If you like your food extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
2. Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove and set aside.
3. Sear the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the salmon.
4. Build the Cajun Cream Sauce
If the skillet is dry, add a touch more olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 2–3 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens. The result? A velvety, Cajun-kissed cream sauce you’ll want to put on everything.
5. Bring It All Together
Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet, gently nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the seafood to coat and heat through for 1–2 minutes.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve the salmon and shrimp over your choice of cooked pasta or rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Optional Add-ins: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Recipe Tips and Shortcuts
- Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time—just heat them in the sauce at the end.
- Don’t overcook the salmon or shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
- Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth before adding cream for extra depth.
- Swap Cajun seasoning for Creole if you prefer a more herbal, less spicy kick.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to bulk up the dish.
Variations and Swaps
- Protein swap: Try this with chicken, scallops, or tofu for a pescatarian-friendly twist.
- Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
- Keto-friendly: Skip the pasta or rice and serve over sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice.
- Low-sodium option: Make your own Cajun seasoning and control the salt content.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Have leftovers? Here’s how to make the most of them:
Storage:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze cream-based sauces, as they tend to separate upon thawing.
Reheating:
- Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
- Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
- Microwave in short bursts (30 seconds at a time), stirring in between.
Pro Tip: Remove shrimp before reheating and add them back in at the end to prevent overcooking.
Perfect Pairings
Sides:
- Garlic bread
- Steamed asparagus
- Roasted broccoli
- Caesar or arugula salad
Drinks:
- Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
- Sparkling water with lime
- A light, citrusy beer like a Belgian Witbier
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess water.
What’s the best Cajun seasoning to use?
You can use store-bought, but homemade blends offer more control over spice and salt levels.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the components separately and combine just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dish itself is gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but your sauce may be thinner. Consider adding a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken.
Final Thoughts
Salmon and Shrimp with Cajun Cream Sauce is a dish that truly delivers: bold flavor, comforting creaminess, and gourmet presentation—all with minimal effort. It’s one of those meals that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, you’ve got dinner on the table in half an hour.
So whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests, surprise your partner, or treat yourself to something extraordinary, this dish is a go-to you’ll return to again and again.
