Blackened Salmon Alfredo Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a rich, indulgent dish that brings together bold spices, tender flaky salmon, and a luxuriously creamy pasta sauce. The contrast between the smoky, spicy blackened salmon and the smooth, velvety Alfredo sauce makes this recipe truly special. It feels like a restaurant-quality meal, yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

This dish is perfect for evenings when you want something comforting but elevated, combining classic Italian-inspired cream sauce with a modern seafood twist.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances bold flavors with creamy comfort. The blackened seasoning adds depth and a hint of heat, while the Alfredo sauce mellows everything out with its buttery, cheesy richness.

Salmon is one of my favorite proteins because it’s flavorful, nutritious, and cooks quickly, making this dish ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s also endlessly customizable, which makes it a recipe I return to again and again.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines the best of multiple cuisines into one unforgettable meal. You get the smoky spice of Cajun-style blackened salmon, the comfort of creamy Alfredo pasta, and the elegance of a seafood entrée. It’s filling, satisfying, and feels indulgent without being overly complicated. If you enjoy bold flavors paired with creamy sauces, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 620–680 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Fusion

Ingredients

• 300 g fettuccine or penne pasta
• 2 large salmon fillets, skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Blackened Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta cooking water

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Directions

Cook the pasta until al dente and reserve some pasta water. Season the salmon generously with blackened spices and sear it until a flavorful crust forms. Prepare the Parmesan cream sauce in the same pan, then combine with the cooked pasta. Flake the salmon and serve it over the creamy pasta, finishing with fresh herbs and cheese.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix all blackened seasoning ingredients. Pat the salmon dry and coat evenly with the seasoning on both sides.

Step 3: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until blackened and just cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Flake the salmon into large pieces and place over the pasta or gently fold it in.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the Blackened Salmon Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A squeeze of lemon just before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce, as pre-grated cheese may not melt well. Do not overcook the salmon; it should be moist and flaky. If the sauce thickens too much, add small amounts of pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Cooking the sauce on low heat helps prevent separation.

Variations in Detail

For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk or use half-and-half. You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. Swap salmon with shrimp or chicken if preferred. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add red chili flakes to the sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used without affecting the overall flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cream-based sauces do not freeze particularly well, but you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month if needed. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought blackened seasoning?
Yes, store-bought seasoning works well, but adjust salt levels accordingly.

Can I make this dish without cream?
You can use evaporated milk or a cashew cream alternative, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

What pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine is ideal, but penne, linguine, or spaghetti also work well.

Is this dish very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat, which can be adjusted by changing the amount of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Blackened Salmon Alfredo Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a bold, creamy, and satisfying dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. The smoky blackened salmon paired with rich Alfredo sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to a comforting homemade meal, this recipe delivers impressive results every time.