There’s something irresistible about Cajun seafood paired with creamy garlic sauce.
This dish brings together tender salmon, juicy shrimp, velvety mashed potatoes, and buttery green beans for a comforting yet bold dinner.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for both family meals and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick to the shrimp and salmon.
The garlic cream sauce is velvety, rich, and ties the whole dish together.
It’s a complete meal with potatoes and green beans, so you don’t need extra sides.
Everything comes together in under an hour, yet feels restaurant-worthy.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Shrimp and salmon bring protein and rich flavor to the plate.
Cajun seasoning infuses the seafood with bold spices.
Heavy cream creates a silky sauce that coats the seafood perfectly.
Russet potatoes make the mashed base fluffy and smooth.
Fresh green beans add brightness and crunch to balance the richness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the shrimp and salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
Toast Cajun spices briefly in oil for deeper flavor.
Simmer the sauce gently so it thickens without curdling.
Blanch green beans first, then sauté for the perfect crisp-tender bite.
Mash the potatoes while still hot for a smoother texture.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp, Salmon Garlic Cream Sauce
Step 1 – Cook the mashed potatoes
Boil peeled potato chunks in salted water until tender.
Drain, mash, and mix with butter and milk until creamy. Season and keep warm.
Step 2 – Sear the shrimp and salmon
Season both with Cajun spice.
Sear shrimp in olive oil until pink, then set aside.
Sear salmon in butter until golden and flaky. Remove and keep warm.
Step 3 – Prepare the garlic cream sauce
In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter.
Add cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer until slightly thickened.
Return shrimp and salmon, spoon sauce over, and let simmer briefly.
Step 4 – Cook the green beans
Blanch beans in boiling salted water.
Drain, then sauté with butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes until tender-crisp. Season to taste.
Step 5 – Plate and serve
Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates.
Top with salmon and shrimp, drizzle with garlic cream sauce, and serve with green beans on the side.
What to Serve Them With
This dish is complete on its own but pairs well with crusty bread.
Add a crisp green salad for extra freshness.
A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap salmon for cod or halibut if preferred.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Try broccoli or asparagus instead of green beans.
Adjust the heat by increasing or reducing cayenne in the Cajun blend.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
Mashed potatoes and green beans are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated once.
Seafood should not be frozen after cooking for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Do I have to use salmon with skin on?
No, you can cook with or without skin based on preference.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently and whisk before serving.
What type of potatoes work best for mashing?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes give the fluffiest texture.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internally.
Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, reduce cayenne or use mild paprika in the Cajun blend.
Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less rich.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can use yellow mustard or skip it—it adds tang but isn’t essential.
Can I serve this without mashed potatoes?
Yes, it also pairs well with rice, pasta, or polenta.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut milk instead of cream and olive oil instead of butter.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun shrimp and salmon with garlic cream sauce is comfort food with a gourmet twist.
It’s bold, creamy, and satisfying—ideal for dinner parties or cozy family nights.
Once you try it, it’ll be a go-to for seafood lovers.
