If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, creamy, and downright satisfying, this Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce is the perfect choice. With tender, seasoned salmon and juicy shrimp seared to perfection, then nestled in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe strikes the balance between comfort food and restaurant-quality elegance. Even better? It all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan wonder – Fewer dishes, maximum flavor.
- Bold Cajun spices – A little smoky, a little spicy, and incredibly tasty.
- Creamy garlic sauce – Parmesan and cream bring richness to the seafood.
- Quick and impressive – On the table in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the seafood:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the garlic cream sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken or seafood broth (optional, for a lighter sauce)
- ½ cup fresh baby spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Season and Cook the Seafood
- Pat salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Season both with Cajun seasoning, plus a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook salmon fillets for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Add the remaining olive oil and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and broth (if using), stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens.
- Add spinach, if desired, and let it wilt in the sauce.
3. Combine and Serve
- Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Over pasta – Think fettuccine or linguine for a comforting dinner.
- With rice or quinoa – For a hearty, balanced bowl.
- Paired with roasted vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli complement the flavors beautifully.
✨ Chef’s Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the seafood before serving. It brightens up the creamy sauce and balances the Cajun spices.
