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Cajun Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

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Cajun Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the perfect blend of bold flavors and creamy comfort. Imagine tender salmon fillets seared to golden perfection, juicy shrimp tossed in a zesty Cajun sauce, and a cloud-like bed of buttery mashed potatoes beneath it all. This dish is indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make — ideal for a weekend dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Introduction

If you’re craving something rich, spicy, and deeply satisfying, this recipe is your new go-to. The creamy mashed potatoes balance the smoky heat of the Cajun spices, while the shrimp and salmon create a luxurious seafood experience. With its velvety sauce and layers of texture, it’s a restaurant-quality dish made right in your own kitchen.

The best part? Every element — from the mashed potatoes to the creamy Cajun sauce — can be prepared in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect flavor balance: The spicy Cajun seasoning pairs beautifully with buttery seafood and creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Simple yet elegant: A great choice for date nights or family dinners that feel special without being complicated.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or tweak the sauce to suit your taste.
  • Comfort meets luxury: A hearty meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 180–200 g each, skin-on)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Shrimp

  • 200 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For the Cajun Cream Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 250 ml heavy cream
  • 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Mashed Potatoes

  • 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 80 ml hot milk or cream
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Master the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Place the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot of salted water.
  2. Bring to a boil and cook until tender — about 15–20 minutes.
  3. Drain thoroughly, then mash the potatoes while they’re still hot.
  4. Add butter and hot milk (or cream) gradually, mashing until smooth and creamy.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Keep warm while you prepare the seafood and sauce.

Tip: For extra smooth mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or electric hand mixer.

2. Cook the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel — this ensures a crisp sear.
  2. Rub each fillet with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until crispy.
  5. Carefully flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, depending on thickness.
  6. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Searing in batches helps maintain an even crust.

3. Prepare the Shrimp

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook for 1½–2 minutes on each side until pink and lightly charred.
  4. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp for brightness.
  5. Remove and set aside.
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4. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

  1. Melt the butter in the same skillet (don’t wash it — the flavor from the seafood adds depth).
  2. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning until the sauce becomes rich and velvety.
  5. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.

5. Assemble the Dish

  1. Spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate.
  2. Place a salmon fillet on top.
  3. Spoon the Cajun shrimp and sauce over the salmon, letting the creamy sauce drip down the sides.
  4. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Serve immediately — the creamy sauce, flaky salmon, and soft potatoes are best enjoyed hot.

Tips for Success

  • Use fresh seafood: Fresh salmon and shrimp yield better texture and flavor than frozen ones.
  • Control the spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning or mix it with paprika.
  • Enhance the sauce: A splash of white wine or chicken stock can deepen the sauce’s flavor.
  • Don’t skip the lemon: The citrus balances the creamy sauce and keeps the dish vibrant.
  • Keep the potatoes warm: Store them in a covered bowl or pot while preparing the seafood.

Variations

  • Swap the seafood: Try scallops or white fish instead of salmon for variety.
  • Add vegetables: Serve with sautéed spinach, asparagus, or roasted broccoli for a balanced meal.
  • Make it lighter: Substitute light cream or Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version.
  • Go extra creamy: Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic butter green beans
  • A crisp garden salad
  • Roasted corn on the cob
  • Chilled white wine or lemonade

For a full Southern-inspired experience, serve it with cornbread or a side of Cajun rice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture prevents proper searing.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cajun cream sauce and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What type of potatoes are best for mashing?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best — they’re fluffy, smooth, and creamy when mashed.

How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the Cajun cream sauce.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a meal that celebrates comfort and flavor in every bite. The creamy base, spicy Cajun kick, and tender seafood create a perfect harmony that’s sure to impress anyone at the table. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.