Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood by the stove, the inviting aroma of Cajun spices wrapping around me like a cozy blanket, I knew I was in for something special. This Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant green beans, is my go-to dish when I want to impress at dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a delightful balance of comfort food and sophisticated flavors, perfect for cozy family gatherings or intimate date nights. The best part? This meal is easily customizable, so you can swap in your favorite proteins or side dishes with ease. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a burst of Cajun flair? Why is this recipe a must-try? Flavor Explosion: This Cajun Shrimp and Salmon brings a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds, making each bite a delight. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this impressive meal in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with friends or family. Customizable Goodness: Whether you prefer chicken or want to make it plant-based with tofu, this dish adapts perfectly to your personal tastes. Comfort Meets Elegance: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and fresh green beans provides an ideal foundation, turning this dinner into a cozy yet sophisticated experience. Great for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners to special date nights, this dish is sure to impress. It’s also a fantastic option alongside a fresh salad or paired with a glass of white wine for an elevated touch! Cajun Shrimp and Salmon Ingredients • This recipe is packed with all the essentials for a fabulous meal! For the Seafood Shrimp – Provides protein and a tender, succulent texture; can easily swap with cod or scallops. Salmon – Offers a rich, flaky flavor; feel free to use chicken breast or tofu for a lighter protein option. For the Cajun Seasoning Cajun Seasoning – Adds bold, zesty flavor; substitute with local spices to adjust heat levels if desired. For the Garlic Cream Sauce Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and thick sauce; adjust thickness by adding more broth or cream as needed. Garlic – Infuses the sauce with a deep, aromatic taste that elevates the entire dish. For the Mashed Potatoes Potatoes – Deliver a comforting and creamy base; consider mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist. Butter – Enhances richness and flavor in the mashed potatoes; use a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version. For the Green Beans Green Beans – Adds a refreshing crunch to your plate; feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. This Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans recipe is loaded with flavor and makes for a truly delightful meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans Step 1: Season the Seafood Begin by generously seasoning the shrimp and salmon with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare your other ingredients. This resting time allows the spices to penetrate the seafood, enhancing the taste of your Cajun Shrimp and Salmon. Step 2: Sear the Shrimp Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Step 3: Cook the Salmon In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and lower the heat slightly to medium. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon and let it rest while you prepare the sauce. Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce In the flavorful remnants of the skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste to enhance the richness of your garlic cream sauce. Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes While the sauce is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Peel and chop the potatoes, then add them to the boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash with butter and cream until smooth and creamy, adjusting consistency as desired. Step 6: Sauté the Green Beans In a separate skillet, add a touch of oil and heat over medium. Add the green beans and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and vibrant green. Season with a pinch of salt, allowing their natural sweetness to come forward while providing a fresh contrast to the richness of the Cajun Shrimp and Salmon. Step 7: Assemble and Serve To serve your Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, create a bed of creamy mashed potatoes on each plate. Top generously with the seared shrimp and salmon, then drizzle the garlic cream sauce over the seafood. Garnish each plate with sautéed green beans, adding a pop of color and crunch—enjoy this delightful dish! Expert Tips for Cajun Shrimp and Salmon Hot Skillet Essential: Always ensure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp and salmon. A common mistake is overcrowding, which leads to steaming rather than searing. Seasoning Balance: Taste your Cajun seasoning and adjust it according to your heat preference. Keep a bit extra on the side to sprinkle for those who enjoy a bolder kick. Rest the Seafood: Allow the cooked shrimp and salmon to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances the flavor of your Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce. Mashed Potato Texture: When mashing your potatoes, add cream gradually. This ensures your mashed potatoes are creamy but not overly soupy. Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to play with additional vegetables! Incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms in your sauté for added nutrition and color alongside your green beans. What to Serve with Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce Imagine a meal vibrant with flavors, inviting a sense of warmth and comfort, perfect for gathering around the table. Crispy Garlic Bread: This aromatic delight adds a satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up the rich cream sauce. Caesar Salad: A classic, crisp salad with a creamy dressing complements the Cajun flavors and adds freshness to the dish. The crunch of romaine balances beautifully with the seafood richness. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, broccoli brings a fresh element and helps cut through the creaminess, providing a well-rounded plate. Roasted Asparagus: The slight char and crunch of asparagus offer an elegant contrast, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal while adding depth of flavor. Chardonnay: A chilled glass elevates the dining experience, its oaky notes perfectly complementing the buttery cream sauce and spices in the dish. Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat offers a warm, rich finish to the meal, leaving everyone pleasantly satisfied. Herbed Quinoa: A nutty and fluffy base provides a unique texture, soaking up any leftover garlic sauce, making it a wholesome addition to your plate. These pairings will create an unforgettable dining experience that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Make Ahead Options These Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic cream sauce up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. The mashed potatoes can also be made a day ahead; simply store them covered in the fridge, and reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of cream before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this meal, sear the shrimp and salmon fresh for optimal flavor and texture. This way, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dinner on your table with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Cajun Shrimp and Salmon Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors of the Cajun shrimp and salmon while preventing spoilage. Freezer: If you want to keep your meal longer, you can freeze the cooked Cajun shrimp and salmon separately from the garlic cream sauce. Properly wrapped, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream to the sauce to revitalize its creaminess. Storage Tip: Avoid storing mushy leftovers by keeping the mashed potatoes and green beans separate when refrigerating, ensuring they stay fresh and maintain their textures. Cajun Shrimp and Salmon Variations Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own—the possibilities are endless! Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp and salmon with cod or scallops for a different seafood experience. Each option brings its unique texture and flavor while still harmonizing with the Cajun spices. Chicken Delight: For those who prefer poultry, use chicken breast instead of seafood. Sear until golden brown, and serve it smothered in that delightful garlic cream sauce for a comforting twist. Plant-Based Option: Swap the proteins with tofu for a vegetarian version. Use firm tofu, marinated in Cajun seasoning, and sauté until crispy to give that same rich, flavorful experience. Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Switch out creamy mashed potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy Cajun flavors, creating an unexpected delight. Extra Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into your green bean sauté. This not only boosts nutrition but adds vibrant colors and flavors to your plate. Heat It Up: If you want to turn up the heat, toss in diced jalapeños or sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the garlic cream sauce. It’ll give an invigorating kick and a bold flavor profile! Roasted Veggie Side: Exchange green beans for roasted broccoli or zucchini. Roasting enhances their sweetness and provides a lovely texture contrast to the creamy sauce. Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into your garlic cream sauce for an aromatic boost. Fresh herbs elevate the flavors, making this dish feel even more special. As you explore these variations, don’t hesitate to lean into your favorite flavors and ingredients. For more delicious ideas, check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp or try the comforting Smashed Potatoes Garlic as a side! Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans Recipe FAQs What type of shrimp should I use? For this recipe, opt for medium to large-sized shrimp. Look for those that are bright pink and firm to the touch, avoiding any that have a strong fishy odor or dark spots, as these can indicate freshness issues. If you’re unsure, I recommend using wild-caught shrimp, which often have a richer flavor compared to farmed varieties. How should I store leftovers? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, separate the garlic cream sauce and the shrimp/salmon into different containers to keep the textures well-preserved and fresh. Can I freeze Cajun shrimp and salmon? Yes, you can freeze them! To do so, let the shrimp and salmon cool completely. Then, individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture. What if my garlic cream sauce is too thin? No worries! If your sauce turns out too thin, you can easily thicken it. Simply continue to simmer it on low heat, allowing it to reduce a bit further until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then gradually whisk it into the sauce while heating until it thickens. This method works wonders for achieving a luxuriously creamy finish! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the Cajun seasoning, as it may contain common allergens such as garlic or onion powder. Additionally, for those with dairy sensitivities, you can replace the heavy cream in the garlic sauce with coconut cream or a dairy-free substitute. Remember, if you’re serving this to pets, shrimp shouldn’t be given to them as it can cause digestive issues. What should I do if my shrimp and salmon overcook? If you happen to overcook your shrimp or salmon and they become rubbery, don’t fret! A trick I often use is to add a bit of the garlic cream sauce back into the pan and warm it slightly to bring moisture back into the seafood. To prevent overcooking in the future, keep an eye on the cooking time, and remember to remove the seafood from heat as soon as it turns opaque and flakes easily! Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce Bliss This Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, served with mashed potatoes and green beans, delivers a delightful and flavorful dining experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: CajunCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Seafood1 pound Shrimp Substitute with cod or scallops if desired.1 pound Salmon Substitute with chicken breast or tofu for a lighter option.Cajun Seasoning2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust heat levels as desired.Garlic Cream Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream Add more broth or cream as needed for consistency.3 cloves Garlic Minced.Mashed Potatoes2 pounds Potatoes Consider using mashed sweet potatoes.4 tablespoons Butter Use a vegan alternative for dairy-free.Green Beans1 pound Green Beans Substitute other vegetables like bell peppers. Equipment SkilletPotAirtight container Method Cooking StepsSeason the shrimp and salmon with Cajun seasoning and let marinate for 10 minutes.Heat oil in a skillet and sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink.In the same skillet, cook the salmon, skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip for another 3-4 minutes.Add minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for 1 minute, then add heavy cream and simmer for 3-5 minutes.Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, then mash with butter and cream.Sauté green beans in oil for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.Serve the dish by creating a bed of mashed potatoes, topping with shrimp and salmon, and drizzling with garlic cream sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure the skillet is hot before adding seafood to achieve the best sear. Customize the vegetables in the green beans sauté for extra flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!