Name: Cajun Shrimp and Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: For the Salmon:; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 4 (5-ounce) salmon filets, skin-on; 2 teaspoons low-sodium Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Cajun Shrimp:; 16 ounces jumbo or large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon low-sodium Cajun seasoning; For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:; 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced or diced; 3 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional); For Garnish (optional):; Additional Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley or chives

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This Easy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon dish is bold, flavorful, and surprisingly quick to make. Perfectly seared salmon and shrimp are smothered in a creamy red pepper sauce with garlic, sundried tomatoes, and Parmesan. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy at home any night of the week.

Cajun Shrimp and Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
Combines shrimp and salmon for a protein-packed dish.
Rich Cajun flavors with a creamy, velvety sauce.
Elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday cooking.
Customizable with spice levels and add-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon

2 teaspoons olive oil
4 (5-ounce) salmon filets, skin-on
2 teaspoons low-sodium Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cajun Shrimp

16 ounces jumbo or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon low-sodium Cajun seasoning

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce

1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced or diced
3 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

For Garnish (optional)

Additional Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or chives

Directions

Pat salmon filets dry and season flesh side with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder.
Pat shrimp dry, add to a bowl, and toss with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add salmon skin-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until opaque. Remove and set aside.
Reduce skillet heat to low-medium. Add sundried tomatoes and red bell pepper, sautéing for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the pan to deglaze.
Lower heat, stir in heavy cream, and simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust consistency with broth if needed.
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, and hot sauce if using.
Plate salmon and shrimp, then drizzle with creamy Cajun sauce. Garnish as desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Calories: 470 kcal per serving (approx.)

Variations

Swap salmon for cod, tilapia, or another firm fish.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Add spinach or kale to the sauce for extra nutrients.
Replace shrimp with scallops for an elegant twist.
Adjust spice level with more or less Cajun seasoning or hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate.
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with just shrimp or just salmon?

Yes, you can use only shrimp or only salmon—adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?

You can use Creole seasoning or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can control the heat by adjusting the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried tomatoes?

Yes, but sundried tomatoes provide a deeper flavor. Fresh tomatoes will make the sauce lighter.

What side dishes pair best with this recipe?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta.

Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Do I need to keep the skin on the salmon?

Keeping the skin helps hold the fish together while cooking, but you can remove it if preferred.

Can I grill the salmon instead of searing it?

Yes, grilled salmon works beautifully with this sauce.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque—about 1–2 minutes per side.

Can I make this sauce thicker?

Yes, simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan for a creamier consistency.

Conclusion

Easy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Red Pepper Cream Sauce is a bold, flavorful recipe that delivers gourmet taste with weeknight simplicity. With juicy shrimp, tender salmon, and a creamy, spiced sauce, it’s a dish that impresses without extra effort. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.