Cajun Salmon & Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Seafood Feast

By
Spread the love

If you’re looking for a next-level seafood dinner that’s restaurant-quality yet easy enough to make at home, this Cajun Salmon & Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta will absolutely blow you away. It’s a mouthwatering combination of spicy Cajun-seared salmon, juicy garlic butter shrimp, and creamy, cheesy pasta—all topped with a kick of lemon and served alongside perfectly toasted garlic bread.

Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for a romantic date night in, a special family dinner, or whenever you’re craving serious coastal flavor. From bold spices to velvety pasta sauce, this is one of those meals that makes your kitchen feel like a five-star bistro.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is for anyone who loves rich, layered flavors and a satisfying, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The seared Cajun salmon adds a smoky, spiced crust with a buttery center, while the garlic butter shrimp give a succulent, savory contrast. Tossed with angel hair or spaghetti in a light, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, every bite is pure perfection.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe offers easy-to-follow instructions and versatile options that allow you to tweak it based on your dietary preferences or pantry availability.

Ingredients at a Glance

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this savory seafood pasta together:

For the Cajun Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

  • 500g large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Pasta:

  • 250g spaghetti or angel hair pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Bread:

  • 4 slices French bread
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp dried parsley
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Saucepan for pasta
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven (for garlic bread)
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cajun Salmon

Rub the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the salmon skin-side down for 4 minutes. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, adding butter to finish. Set aside.

Pro Tip: Let your salmon rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to lock in moisture.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in another pan. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sear for 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Add butter and garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant. Finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley.

Short on time? You can cook the shrimp in the same skillet as the salmon after it’s done for easy cleanup.

3. Make the Pasta

Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until aromatic. If you’re going creamy, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth. Toss in the pasta, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Variation Idea: Use fettuccine for a more luxurious feel, or swap for zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.

4. Prepare the Garlic Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix melted butter with garlic, dried parsley, and Italian seasoning. Brush onto French bread slices and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Upgrade it by topping with shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking.

5. Assemble & Serve

Plate your pasta, top with a piece of Cajun salmon and a generous spoonful of garlic butter shrimp. Serve with garlic bread and a side of roasted broccoli or a green salad for a well-balanced seafood feast.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

If you somehow don’t finish the entire pan (no judgment, we all have different appetites), here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:

  • Fridge: Store everything in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: The pasta and shrimp can freeze well for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the salmon as it may dry out when reheated.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce. Salmon is best reheated in a pan or oven to preserve texture.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Want to put your own twist on this dish? Here are some ideas:

  • Make it dairy-free: Omit cream and Parmesan and use a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and bread.
  • Spice level: Increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to adjust heat.
  • Veggie boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to make it even more nutritious.

What to Serve With Cajun Salmon & Shrimp Pasta

This dish is already rich and satisfying, but here are some serving suggestions to complete the experience:

Side Dishes:

  • Roasted broccoli or asparagus
  • Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette
  • Grilled corn with lime butter

Drinks:

  • White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay pairs beautifully.
  • Sparkling Water: Infuse with lemon or cucumber for a refreshing, palate-cleansing sip.
  • Craft Beer: A crisp lager or light IPA complements the bold Cajun spices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to get a good sear.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick DIY blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the pasta and cook the salmon and shrimp ahead, then assemble and reheat just before serving. Garlic bread is best fresh, though!

Is the cream absolutely necessary?

Nope! It’s optional. The pasta is still delicious without it—just butter, garlic, and Parmesan create a lovely light sauce.

What other proteins can I use?

Try blackened chicken, scallops, or even lobster tails for a luxurious variation.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something truly indulgent, this Cajun Salmon & Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress. With just the right balance of spice, creaminess, and fresh herbs, every element of this recipe works in harmony to deliver a flavor-packed experience from the very first bite.

Similar Posts