Cajun-Spiced Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Garlic Sauce
A one-pan dinner combining wild-caught salmon and shrimp coated in bold Cajun spices, simmered in a rich creamy garlic sauce for a satisfying low-carb meal. This american-inspired seafood (keto, low carb) ready in about 35 minutes blends large, peeled and deveined shrimp, cajun seasoning, unsalted butter into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets (6 oz each), skin removed salmon fillets
- 12 large, peeled and deveined shrimp
- 2 tbsp cajun seasoning
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat dry 4 skinless salmon fillets and 12 large peeled shrimp. Sprinkle 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides of the salmon and shrimp.
- Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and foaming. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 4 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 12 shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring in 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 5: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Cajun-Spiced Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Garlic Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Cajun-Spiced Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Cajun-Spiced Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Cajun-Spiced Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Garlic Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Cajun-Spiced Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Garlic Sauce keto?
Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
