Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and elegance, look no further than Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. This dish is a delightful fusion of rich, creamy sauce with a spicy kick, perfectly complementing the flaky, tender salmon. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself during the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for its vibrant flavors and straightforward preparation. The Cajun seasoning gives the salmon a tantalizing spice, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch. Plus, it’s a quick meal—ready in under 30 minutes! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, and it pairs beautifully with a side of vegetables or rice.

Gather These Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed, skin-on or skinless, your choice!
• 2 teaspoons Cajun or Creole seasoning: This adds the signature kick to the salmon.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For that deep, smoky flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sear the salmon.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion: Sweet and aromatic, it forms the base of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper: A pop of color and sweetness.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for that robust flavor.
• 3/4 cup chicken broth: Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream: This makes the sauce creamy and decadent.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For an extra layer of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning: For an additional flavor boost in the sauce.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons cornstarch, optional: To thicken the sauce if desired.
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Brightens up the dish.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For a creamy, cheesy finish.
• 2 green onions, sliced: A fresh garnish.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds color and freshness.

Recommended Tools

• Large skillet: For searing the salmon and making the sauce.
• Spatula: To flip the salmon fillets without breaking them.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
• Whisk: To combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.

Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful sear. Season both sides of each fillet with 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce, whisking until it thickens.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Add the lemon juice and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the fillets. Allow them to warm through for a minute. Serve the salmon garnished with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

• Spice it up: Use a spicier Cajun seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Herb variations: Try adding fresh thyme or basil to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
• Cheese alternatives: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Vegetable swaps: Replace the bell peppers with zucchini or asparagus for a different texture.

Insider Tips

• For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps maintain its moisture.
• If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper works well.
• Feel free to customize the cream sauce with your favorite herbs or spices—everything pairs beautifully with salmon!

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals until heated through, but be careful not to overcook the salmon.

Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and best texture.

What can I serve with Cajun Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are also great side options!

Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?

While the sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat gently when ready to serve. Just be aware that it may thicken upon cooling.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is perfect for meal prep. Just store the salmon and sauce separately to keep everything fresh.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, be sure to check out more delicious seafood recipes on our blog. From zesty shrimp tacos to buttery garlic tilapia, there’s a world of flavors waiting for you to discover.

With its robust flavors and creamy texture, this Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a must-try. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to make your taste buds dance. Happy cooking!

Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

This Cajun Salmon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is bursting with flavor! A quick, elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 fillets salmon Fresh or thawed, skin-on or skinless
• 2 teaspoons Cajun or Creole seasoning This adds the signature kick to the salmon
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika For that deep, smoky flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps to sear the salmon
• 1 tablespoon butter Adds richness to the sauce
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion Sweet and aromatic, it forms the base of the sauce
• 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper A pop of color and sweetness
• 2 cloves garlic minced, essential for that robust flavor
• 3/4 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness
• 3/4 cup heavy cream This makes the sauce creamy and decadent
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes For an extra layer of heat
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Basic seasoning that enhances all the flavors
• 1/4 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning For an additional flavor boost in the sauce
• 1 to 2 teaspoons cornstarch optional, to thicken the sauce if desired
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice Brightens up the dish
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese For a creamy, cheesy finish
• 2 green onions sliced A fresh garnish
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley Adds color and freshness

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each fillet with 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce, whisking until it thickens.
5. Add the lemon juice and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the fillets. Allow them to warm through for a minute. Serve the salmon garnished with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

• For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps maintain its moisture.
• If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper works well.