There’s something deeply comforting about a rich, creamy seafood dish simmering gently on the stove, filling the kitchen with the aroma of garlic, spices, and warmth. Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon in Garlic Cream Sauce is the kind of recipe that feels special yet approachable—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, an intimate date night at home, or even a small gathering when you want to impress without stress.
This dish was inspired by Southern-style Cajun flavors, known for their bold spice blends and soulful comfort, paired with a creamy garlic sauce that balances heat with indulgence. Shrimp and salmon are a classic pairing: one tender and juicy, the other rich and flaky. Together, they create a satisfying harmony of textures and flavors that feels restaurant-worthy while remaining easy enough to make in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is designed for cooks who love bold flavor without complicated steps. The Cajun seasoning brings warmth and gentle heat, while garlic and cream create a silky sauce that coats every bite beautifully. It’s versatile, too—you can serve it over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
Another reason this dish shines is its balance. The spice never overwhelms, the cream never feels heavy, and the seafood remains the star. With simple ingredients and one main skillet, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Seafood
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450 g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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450 g (1 lb) salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into large chunks
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt
For the Garlic Cream Sauce
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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6 cloves garlic, finely minced
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1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
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120 ml (½ cup) chicken or vegetable broth
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50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Seafood
Begin by preparing your shrimp and salmon properly, as this step sets the foundation for flavor and texture. Pat the shrimp and salmon dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential because it helps the seasoning adhere better and allows the seafood to sear instead of steam. Place the shrimp and salmon pieces into a large bowl, making sure there’s enough room to toss them gently without breaking the salmon. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the seafood, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using clean hands or a soft spatula, toss gently until every piece is well coated. Take care not to overmix, especially with the salmon, as keeping the pieces intact ensures a beautiful presentation and tender texture once cooked.
2. Sear the Salmon
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Allow the skillet to warm fully before adding the salmon—this is key to achieving a golden crust. Once the pan is hot, lightly coat the surface with any remaining oil from the seasoning bowl. Place the salmon pieces in the skillet, spacing them slightly apart to avoid overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2–3 minutes on the first side. This allows a light crust to form, which locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor. Gently turn the salmon pieces and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the outside is lightly golden and the inside is just beginning to turn opaque. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. At this stage, the salmon does not need to be fully cooked, as it will finish cooking later in the sauce.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet helps capture all the flavorful bits left behind by the salmon. Add the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they are not stacked on top of one another. Cook the shrimp over medium heat for about 1–2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they turn pink and slightly opaque around the edges. Flip and cook briefly on the other side until fully pink and gently curled. Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them with the salmon.
4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the sauce from scorching. Add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and stir to bloom the spices. Slowly pour in the broth, followed by the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth base. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a rich, cohesive flavor.
5. Finish the Sauce
Add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly until it melts completely into the sauce. This step thickens the sauce and adds a savory depth. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, stir in the lemon juice. The acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cream and cheese, ensuring the sauce doesn’t feel heavy.
6. Combine and Serve
Return the shrimp and salmon to the skillet, nestling them gently into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the seafood to coat it evenly. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes, just long enough for the seafood to finish cooking and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
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Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
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Fettuccine or linguine pasta
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach
Each option highlights the creamy Cajun sauce in a different way, making the recipe endlessly adaptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How spicy is Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon in Garlic Cream Sauce?
This dish has a moderate level of heat that most people find pleasantly warming rather than overpowering. Cajun seasoning varies by brand, so the spice level can be easily adjusted. If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 teaspoon total and skip the extra paprika. For those who enjoy more heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning will intensify the spice without compromising the sauce’s balance. The cream naturally mellows the heat, making the dish approachable even for those sensitive to spice.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but with a few considerations. While the sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, seafood is always best when freshly cooked. If you need to prep in advance, you can season the shrimp and salmon and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. When ready to serve, cook the seafood fresh and reheat the sauce gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. Another alternative is full-fat coconut milk, which adds a subtle richness while maintaining a creamy texture. Keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the flavor, but the Cajun spices and garlic will still shine through.
4. How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp and salmon?
The key is cooking the seafood separately and briefly before returning it to the sauce. Shrimp cook very quickly—once they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done. Salmon should be just opaque and flaky. Removing both from the skillet early ensures they stay tender and juicy when finished in the sauce. Overcooking is the most common mistake with seafood, so keeping an eye on timing makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon in Garlic Cream Sauce is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience that brings bold Southern-inspired flavors straight to your table. From the first bite, you’ll notice how the gentle heat of Cajun seasoning complements the richness of the cream sauce rather than overpowering it. The garlic adds depth, while the lemon juice lifts everything with a subtle brightness that keeps the dish from feeling heavy.
What truly makes this recipe special is its versatility. It can be dressed up for a special occasion or simplified for a comforting family dinner. With just one skillet and straightforward steps, it proves that impressive meals don’t have to be complicated. It’s also a wonderful recipe for building confidence in cooking seafood, as the method is forgiving and rewarding.
Whether served over pasta for a luxurious feel or paired with rice for a comforting bowl-style meal, this dish adapts beautifully to your preferences. It invites creativity while remaining rooted in classic, satisfying flavors. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular in your meal rotation—a reliable favorite that feels indulgent every single time.
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Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon in Garlic Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and flavorful seafood dish combining tender shrimp and flaky salmon in a creamy garlic Cajun sauce that’s perfect for an indulgent yet easy home-cooked meal.
Ingredients
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450 g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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450 g (1 lb) salmon fillets, skin removed and cubed
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
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120 ml (½ cup) chicken or vegetable broth
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50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Season shrimp and salmon with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Sear salmon in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side, then remove.
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Cook shrimp in the same skillet for 1–2 minutes per side and remove.
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Melt butter in the skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
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Add broth and cream, simmering for 3–4 minutes.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice until smooth.
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Return shrimp and salmon to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Adjust Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference. Serve with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
