Indulging in a savory and vibrant meal is one of life’s simple pleasures, and nothing hits the spot quite like a dish of Creamy Blackened Salmon with Shrimp. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the rich, comforting taste of a creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend feast, it satisfies a range of cravings and feels indulgent without being overly complicated. I’ve made this delightful dish more times than I can count, and it’s always a hit, whether I’m entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in with family.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Why settle for a plain dinner when you can whip up something extraordinary? Creamy Blackened Salmon with Shrimp is special for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, it combines the heartiness of salmon and shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce that layers in flavor, making each bite a delight. It’s also relatively quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, which is ideal for busy weeknights.
On a budget? This dish is perfect for you! The ingredients can be sourced affordably, especially if you take advantage of sales at your local fish market or grocery store. Family-approved? Absolutely! Kids often enjoy the flavorful salmon and shrimp, especially when paired with their favorite sides.
“Absolutely delicious! The blackened seasoning really kicks it up a notch, and the creamy sauce is to die for! This will become a regular in our dinner routine!” — A Happy Home Cook
How This Recipe Comes Together
Let’s break down how to make this fantastic dish. From seasoning the salmon to creating that luscious sauce, every step is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. The recipe is structured in a way that allows you to multitask efficiently—cooking the salmon and shrimp in the same skillet to take advantage of those leftover flavors.
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What You’ll Need
To create this creamy masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
- Salmon fillets
- Cajun/blackened seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Garlic, minced
- Butter
- Paprika
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice (optional)
Feel free to swap out the shrimp for another type of seafood or leave it out altogether for a salmon-only dish.
Directions to Follow
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Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry. Generously season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until it becomes nicely blackened and cooked through. Once done, remove it and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add a bit more oil and minced garlic. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set it aside as well.
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Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Introduce more minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in paprika and pour in heavy cream, letting it simmer until it thickens slightly. Add in Parmesan cheese and whisk until creamy. Mix in the parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
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Return the salmon and shrimp back to the pan, spooning the delectable sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional minute.
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Serve your creamy blackened salmon with shrimp alongside rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
How to Plate and Pair
There are countless ways to present Creamy Blackened Salmon with Shrimp beautifully. A simple serving suggestion is to create a colorful plate—lay a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, set the salmon on top, and drizzle with that rich sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra wedge of lemon for brightness. For side dishes, consider light steamed asparagus or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the meal perfectly.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing leftovers is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing the unprepared sauce separately from the seafood, which will maintain better texture when reheated. Always ensure that leftovers are heated to a safe temperature before consuming.
Pro Chef Tips
- Don’t skip the patting dry process for your salmon; this ensures a better sear.
- Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning according to your family’s spice preference. You can always add more to individual plates.
- If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after cooking the shrimp for added depth.
Creative Twists
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Swap the shrimp for scallops for a luxurious twist.
- Try different kinds of fish, such as tilapia or cod, in place of salmon.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or try a dairy-free store-bought cream alternative.
Your Questions Answered
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What’s the prep time?
The prep time for Creamy Blackened Salmon with Shrimp is about 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 20 minutes. -
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using to avoid excess water in your sauce. -
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of cream or water to regain its creamy consistency.
With its tantalizing flavors and creamy sauce, Creamy Blackened Salmon with Shrimp is bound to be a favorite in your home. Dive into this dish and experience a delightful culinary adventure that your taste buds will thank you for!
