Cajun Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Looking for the best Cajun Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce recipe? This restaurant-quality seafood dinner combines perfectly seasoned Cajun salmon with juicy garlic butter shrimp, all finished in a rich lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a high-protein, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Cajun seasoning with rich garlic butter
Tender, flaky salmon and juicy shrimp
Ready in only 35 minutes
High in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids
One-skillet meal with easy cleanup
Perfect for family dinners or date nights
⏱️ Prep Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients
For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Shrimp
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of 1 large lemon
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Garnish
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley
Extra melted butter (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
Brush with olive oil and season both sides with:
Cajun seasoning
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and flaky.
Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Season the shrimp with:
Cajun seasoning
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Remove and set aside with the salmon.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium.
Melt the butter in the skillet.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in:
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Italian seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately with:
Garlic mashed potatoes
Buttered rice
Roasted asparagus
Steamed broccoli
Grilled zucchini
Caesar salad
Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
💡 Chef’s Tips
Pat the salmon and shrimp dry before seasoning for a better sear.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they’re done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
For an extra kick, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon and shrimp separately for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 560
Protein: 48g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 690mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon and shrimp?
Yes. Thaw both completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I grill instead of pan-sear?
Absolutely. Grill the salmon for 4–5 minutes per side and the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, then drizzle with the lemon garlic butter sauce before serving.
What side dishes pair best with this recipe?
Garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, asparagus, green beans, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad all pair beautifully.
