What are the best side dishes for Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce?

Creamy dishes like mashed potatoes or grits pair wonderfully, as do lighter options such as steamed asparagus, green beans, rice pilaf, or a simple garden salad to balance the richness.

Is Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce very spicy?

The spiciness largely depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of seasoning applied or choosing a milder blend. The garlic cream sauce also helps to temper the spice.

Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. Ensure both the shrimp and salmon are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents excess moisture from diluting the flavors.

How do you prevent the garlic cream sauce from breaking?

To prevent the sauce from breaking, avoid overheating it or bringing it to a rolling boil after adding cream. Simmer gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry at the beginning can also help stabilize it.

What type of Cajun seasoning is best for this dish?

A good quality, all-purpose Cajun seasoning blend is ideal. Look for one that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. You can also make your own to customize the spice level.

Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing it?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the seasoned salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. You can add the shrimp to the pan during the last 5-7 minutes of baking.

Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce (So Easy!) 2025

Name: Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: For the Cajun Seasoning:; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; For the Seafood:; 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; For the Garlic Cream Sauce:; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, finely diced; 4-5 large garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Cajun shrimp and salmon recipe features spicy, smoky seasoning and a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. It is surprisingly simple to make yet feels indulgent and restaurant-worthy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cajun Seasoning:
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Seafood:
1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
4-5 large garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Seasoning and Seafood: In a small bowl, mix all the Cajun seasoning ingredients together. Pat the salmon cubes and shrimp dry with paper towels, then toss them in a large bowl with the olive oil. Sprinkle with about two-thirds of the Cajun seasoning, reserving the rest for the sauce. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Cook the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned salmon cubes and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, just until cooked through and nicely browned on the outside. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp and set them aside with the salmon.
Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Add the fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked salmon and shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the warm garlic cream sauce. Heat through for just a minute. Serve immediately.

Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave, as it can overcook the seafood. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate and the seafood can become watery upon thawing.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 220mg

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/cajun-shrimp-and-salmon-with-garlic-cream-sauce/