If you’re in the mood for something creamy, spicy, and completely satisfying, this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Pasta is calling your name. It’s a bold and flavorful dish featuring blackened salmon and juicy shrimp tossed in a rich Cajun cream sauce over tender pasta. Every bite is a perfect mix of smoky heat, creamy comfort, and savory seafood.
This dish feels like a restaurant-quality meal, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, date night, or just want to treat yourself, this pasta brings the wow factor without a lot of fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Pasta
- Packed with Flavor: Cajun seasoning adds bold, smoky heat that pairs beautifully with creamy sauce and tender seafood.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Loaded with protein and pasta, this meal is as filling as it is flavorful.
- Great for Weeknights or Entertaining: It comes together in about 35 minutes but tastes like you spent hours.
- Customizable Heat Level: Make it as spicy or mild as you like.
- One-Pan Option: You can cook the sauce, salmon, and shrimp in one pan for easier cleanup.
Ingredients
For the Seafood and Pasta:
- 2 salmon fillets (skin removed, about 6 oz each)
- ½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Chopped parsley or green onion, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Season and Cook the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Flake the salmon into chunks once slightly cooled.
3. Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the salmon.
4. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Gently fold in the salmon and shrimp. Squeeze in a little lemon juice if desired for brightness.
6. Serve
Divide into bowls and top with chopped parsley or green onion. Sprinkle with extra Cajun seasoning or Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh salmon and shrimp give the best flavor and texture, but frozen works too—just thaw thoroughly.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They only need a few minutes. Overcooking will make them rubbery.
- Balance the Heat: Cajun seasoning varies in spiciness. Taste and adjust with cream or lemon juice if it gets too spicy.
- Make it Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
- Try Other Pasta Shapes: Penne, rigatoni, or tagliatelle also work well in this dish.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and seafood ahead and store separately. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta for best results.
What Cajun seasoning should I use?
Any store-bought Cajun blend works well. If you prefer homemade, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
Can I use other seafood?
Yes! Scallops, crab, or even lobster make great additions or substitutions.
Is there a dairy-free version?
You can use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan for a creamy, non-dairy alternative. Just note the flavor will be slightly different.
Conclusion
This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Pasta is a bold, creamy, and deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night you want to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table. With just the right balance of spice, richness, and fresh seafood, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress—and one you’ll want to make again and again.
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