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Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta

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This Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta is a rich and spicy one-pan dinner featuring flaky salmon, tender pasta, and a bold Cajun cream sauce. Perfect for weeknights or date nights, this quick recipe combines smoky heat and velvety richness in under 30 minutes. It’s restaurant-worthy comfort food made easy at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup baby spinach, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/3 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Season salmon with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside to rest, then flake into chunks.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add more oil or butter if needed, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and reserved pasta water or broth. Stir in Parmesan and mix until melted and smooth.
  6. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice, salt, and pepper as desired.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Fold in flaked salmon and optional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or spinach.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with lemon juice, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use less Cajun seasoning for a milder flavor.
  • Substitute dairy-free cream and omit cheese for a lactose-free option.
  • Brighten the dish with fresh lemon juice before serving.
  • Great with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
  • Reheat leftovers with a splash of cream or broth to maintain sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/creamy-cajun-salmon-pasta/