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Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta with Parmesan Sauce

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cajun Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
  • For the Pasta:
  • 10 oz fettuccine, linguine, or penne
  • Salt, for boiling water
  • Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  • Step 2: Season and Sear the Salmon : Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets, skin-side down (if skin-on), and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  • Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Parmesan Sauce : In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning; stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (optional) to taste.
  • Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce : Add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.
  • Step 5: Assemble and Serve : Place the seared salmon fillets on top of the creamy pasta. Spoon extra sauce over the salmon. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.