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
Scale
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.
