Cajun Garlic Butter Salmon & Shrimp Pasta
Creamy, spicy, and packed with bold Cajun flavor, this Cajun Garlic Butter Salmon & Shrimp Pasta is the perfect seafood dinner for any occasion. Juicy pan-seared salmon, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a rich garlic butter cream sauce infused with Cajun spices. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make in under 40 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests, this creamy seafood pasta recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy garlic butter sauce
- Perfect balance of Cajun spice and buttery flavor
- Loaded with flaky salmon and juicy shrimp
- Ready in about 35–40 minutes
- Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or linguine
- 1 salmon fillet (about 6 oz / 170g)
- 200g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Season the Seafood
Pat the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water, mixing until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 6: Toss Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the creamy Cajun garlic butter sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan and gently mix.
Step 7: Serve
Place the seared salmon on top of the pasta, garnish with chopped chives or parsley, and finish with freshly grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Cajun Seafood Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for extra richness.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to make the dish milder or spicier.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they cook very quickly.
- Reserve the pasta water to create a silky, restaurant-style sauce.
- Fresh salmon provides the best flavor and texture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Simply thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild Cajun blend.
What pasta works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or even penne all work wonderfully with this creamy sauce.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
- Course: Dinner, Main Course
- Calories: Approximately 760 kcal per serving
