If you are craving a meal that bursts with bold flavors yet remains comfortingly creamy and satisfying, you are in for a treat with this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe. Combining the rich textures of salmon and shrimp with a luxurious, spicy Cajun cream sauce, this dish feels both indulgent and fresh. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends with minimal effort. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy notes that dance on your tongue, making it a true standout in any seafood lover’s repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe is in its straightforward list of ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and create a delightful texture and color contrast. From the rich butter to the vibrant spinach, every element plays a vital role.
- Unsalted butter (5 tablespoons): Essential for creating a silky sauce base and for sautéing seafood to golden perfection.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the creamy sauce just right without overwhelming it.
- Cajun seasoning (2 teaspoons + 2 tablespoons divided): Provides that signature spicy and smoky punch that defines the dish.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the seasoning blend.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce irresistibly luscious and coats every morsel beautifully.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory umami richness to the sauce without overpowering the seafood.
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts smoothly into the sauce, adding a mild, creamy finish.
- Fresh baby spinach (2 cups): Brings a fresh, vibrant color and a boost of nutrients to balance the richness.
- Salmon fillets, skin removed (4 fillets, about 4 ounces each): A firm, flavorful fish that holds well in the sauce.
- Jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): Adds sweet seafood sweetness and tender bite.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the seafood without sticking or burning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, aromatic garnish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Start by patting dry the salmon fillets and shrimp, then season both generously but evenly with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. This step infuses the seafood with that immediately recognizable spicy kick and builds the flavor foundation. Letting the seafood rest while you prep the sauce lets the seasoning penetrate.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon and Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets skinless side down first for about 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms, then flip them gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, quickly cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until bright pink and opaque. Remove and keep warm with the salmon.
Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt 5 tablespoons butter. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux that cooks out the raw flour taste. Then, add 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon paprika, mixing well to incorporate those bold spices into the base.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting the sauce thicken gently. Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese until melted and silky. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, infusing the sauce with green freshness and vibrant color.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the salmon and shrimp to the pan, gently spooning the sumptuous Cajun cream sauce over the seafood. Let everything warm together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld perfectly and the seafood is heated through.
How to Serve Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of bright green color but also provides a lovely fresh note that complements the richness of the Cajun cream sauce beautifully. For an extra touch, a wedge of lemon on the side brightens each bite wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs incredibly well with fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes, which help soak up the heavenly sauce. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables adds a refreshing crunchy contrast that balances the heat and creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salmon and shrimp over a bed of buttery grits or creamy polenta to introduce Southern soul into the presentation. Alternatively, plate the seafood with a colorful quinoa salad for a modern, vibrant look that invites conversation and appetite alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe tastes great even the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture and keep the seafood tender.
Freezing
While seafood can be frozen, the sauce’s texture may change after thawing. If you want to freeze, separate the sauce and seafood into different containers, freeze seafood for up to 1 month, and sauce for up to 2 weeks, thawing gently before reheating together.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or broth can rejuvenate the sauce’s lusciousness and ensure the seafood stays moist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! Firm, meaty fish like cod or halibut work well with this recipe. Just adjust cooking times slightly to avoid overcooking delicate fish varieties.
How spicy is this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and balanced by the creamy sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the Cajun seasoning slightly or omit the paprika.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without compromising taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The sauce holds well, and the seafood remains tender when reheated gently. Just store components separately if possible to preserve texture best.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the creamy, spicy flavors perfectly without overwhelming the seafood.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you dive into this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe, it’s going to become one of your trusty go-to meals for both casual weeknights and special occasions. It’s rich, spicy, and comforting all at once, and the balance of textures makes it truly unforgettable. So grab those ingredients, and let’s bring this flavorful, creamy Cajun feast to your table—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Description
A rich and flavorful Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe featuring tender salmon fillets and jumbo shrimp cooked in a creamy, spicy sauce with Monterey Jack cheese and fresh spinach. Perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices for a delicious seafood dinner ready in 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 4 salmon fillets (4 ounces each), skin removed
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, raw (thawed if frozen), peeled, deveined, tail on
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (for sauce)
Dairy
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy cream
- 1 cup (113 g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Produce
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh baby spinach
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
Other
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (8 ounces / 240 g) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Seafood: Season the salmon fillets and jumbo shrimp with 2 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.
- Cook the Seafood: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned salmon fillets and cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and keep warm with salmon.
- Make the Sauce Base: Reduce heat to medium and melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon paprika into the roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Spinach: Lower the heat and add shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Seafood with Sauce: Return the cooked salmon fillets and shrimp to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to reheat and blend flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh finish and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Remove the salmon skin beforehand to achieve a tender texture and better sauce absorption.
