This Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon is a rich and zesty dish that brings a kick to your dinner table. With a delightful blend of spices and creamy sauce, it will make your taste buds dance!
Cooking this salmon is so easy; just season, sear, and sauce! I love serving it over rice or with a side of veggies. You’ll want to make it again and again! 🌶️❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe, but you could use skin-on if that’s what you have. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or tilapia as they cook similarly.
Cajun seasoning: This is the star of the show! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne will work great. Adjust levels to your taste!
Heavy cream: Using heavy cream gives a rich texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is recommended for its delicate texture. However, you can replace it with kale or even frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen version well.
Chicken broth: For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead. Homemade stock adds an excellent flavor, but store-bought works perfectly too.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Sear on Salmon?
Getting that nice golden crust on your salmon can take practice, but here’s how to do it:
- First, pat the salmon dry; moisture prevents a good sear.
- Heat the oil on medium-high until it shimmers – it should be hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place salmon in the pan and don’t move it around! This allows it to form that tasty crust.
- Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-cooked salmon.
If you’re unsure, use a fork to check if it flakes easily and is just cooked through. Enjoy your cooking! 🥘
Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by patting dry the salmon fillets with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Rub both sides of the fillets evenly with the Cajun seasoning to give them a flavorful kick. Set them aside for a moment while you heat the skillet.
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned salmon fillets. Allow them to cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they brown nicely and are cooked through. Once done, remove the fillets and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it has melted, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. This adds extra flavor to your sauce! Let the broth reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the heavy cream along with the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The color will change to a beautiful creamy hue!
6. Add Spinach:
Gently stir in the fresh spinach leaves, cooking just until they wilt, which takes no more than 1-2 minutes. This step adds a nice pop of color and nutrition to your dish!
7. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over them and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes. This allows the salmon to warm up and really soak in the flavors.
8. Final Touch:
Stir in the freshly chopped parsley, and season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust any seasonings as necessary for your liking.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the salmon and generously top it with the extra creamy sauce. Add a sprinkle of extra parsley and red pepper flakes for a bit more flair if you like it spicy. This savory dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or some crusty bread to help capture every last drop of that delightful sauce. Enjoy your flavorful, creamy, and spicy Cajun salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen salmon, make sure to completely thaw it in the refrigerator or quickly in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure the spices stick and you achieve a nice sear.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more cayenne pepper to the sauce or use a spicier Cajun seasoning. If you love heat, try adding some sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Cajun Salmon?
This spicy creamy salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal!
