How spicy is Cajun Salmon and Shrimp?

The dish has a noticeable kick thanks to the Cajun seasoning, which typically includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs. If you're sensitive to spice, start with less Cajun seasoning or use a milder Creole blend. You can always add extra heat at the end if desired.

Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely. Frozen shrimp and salmon are great alternatives and often just as fresh. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag in cold water for quicker thawing. Make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking to ensure a good sear.

What’s the best pasta to serve with Cajun Salmon and Shrimp?

Fettuccine and penne are top choices because they hold the creamy sauce well. You can also use linguine or even orzo for a slightly different texture. For a low-carb version, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are excellent substitutes.

Cajun Salmon and Shrimp – Best Skillet Recipe

Name: Cajun Salmon and Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): main protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids; 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: sweet, tender complement to salmon; 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning: adds smoky, spicy flavor; 2 Tbsp olive oil: helps achieve a golden sear; 2 Tbsp butter: adds richness and depth; 3 cloves garlic, minced: aromatic base for the sauce; 3 Tbsp red onion, minced: adds sweetness and sharpness; 1 Tbsp flour (optional): thickens the sauce; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: adds color and nutrients; 1 cup heavy cream: creates a luscious sauce; 1/2 cup chicken broth: deglazes pan and adds flavor; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: sharp, salty richness; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: creamy texture; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional): for extra spice; Salt and pepper, to taste: essential seasoning

Description

This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe features tender salmon fillets and juicy shrimp pan-seared with bold Cajun spices, then simmered in a rich, cheesy cream sauce with spinach. A quick and flavorful seafood dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): main protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: sweet, tender complement to salmon
2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning: adds smoky, spicy flavor
2 Tbsp olive oil: helps achieve a golden sear
2 Tbsp butter: adds richness and depth
3 cloves garlic, minced: aromatic base for the sauce
3 Tbsp red onion, minced: adds sweetness and sharpness
1 Tbsp flour (optional): thickens the sauce
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: adds color and nutrients
1 cup heavy cream: creates a luscious sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth: deglazes pan and adds flavor
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: sharp, salty richness
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: creamy texture
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional): for extra spice
Salt and pepper, to taste: essential seasoning

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Pat salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels and season both with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Add garlic and red onion to the same skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Sprinkle flour (if using) over the aromatics and stir to combine.
Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional extra Cajun seasoning.
Return salmon and shrimp to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot over rice, pasta, or veggies.

Notes

Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
Use frozen seafood if fresh isn’t available—just thaw properly first.
Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Don’t overcook shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 687
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 676mg
Fat: 52g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 24g
Trans Fat: 0.2g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 44g
Cholesterol: 199mg