Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together bold flavors from Cajun-spiced shrimp and salmon, paired with a smooth and garlicky cream sauce that complements the seafood perfectly. The mashed potatoes are creamy and buttery, while the green beans add a fresh and crunchy contrast. It’s a beautifully balanced plate with rich flavors, perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, making it an ideal meal for when you want something impressive but simple to make.

Ingredients

For the Cajun Shrimp and Salmon:

• 1 lb salmon fillets (skin on or off)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh, zesty kick)

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Green Beans:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Cook the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, and garlic (if using). Mash until smooth and creamy, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm.

Cook the Green Beans:

3. Sauté the Green Beans: While the potatoes cook, heat the olive oil (or butter) in a skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Set aside.

Cook the Cajun Shrimp and Salmon:

4. Season the Seafood: Pat the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season the salmon fillets and shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with lemon juice (optional) for extra brightness.

5. Cook the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if the skin is on, and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

6. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the salmon.

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:

7. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

8. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce starts to thicken.

9. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Dish:

10. Serve the Dish: Plate the mashed potatoes, then top with the Cajun shrimp and salmon. Spoon the garlic cream sauce generously over the seafood and potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

11. Serve with Green Beans: Add the sautéed green beans to the plate, and serve immediately.

Enjoy!

This Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans is ready to enjoy. The creamy, spicy, and savory flavors are sure to make this a favorite!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Option: For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic cream sauce or season the seafood with more Cajun seasoning.

• Different Vegetables: Feel free to swap the green beans for another vegetable like asparagus, spinach, or broccoli.

• Add a Carb: For a heartier dish, serve with a side of rice or quinoa in addition to the mashed potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover seafood and garlic cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the cream sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to a saucy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon?

Yes! You can use frozen shrimp and salmon. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking for the best results.

Can I make the garlic cream sauce in advance?

The garlic cream sauce is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more cream if needed.

Can I make this recipe without the cream sauce?

Yes, you can skip the cream sauce and simply serve the Cajun shrimp and salmon with the green beans and mashed potatoes for a lighter version of the dish.

Can I use chicken instead of salmon and shrimp?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the seafood. Just be sure to cook the chicken through (internal temperature of 165°F) before serving.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans is a mouthwatering, well-rounded dish that brings bold flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant colors to the table. The combination of Cajun-spiced shrimp and salmon, with rich garlic cream sauce and comforting mashed potatoes, makes for a perfect meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe will undoubtedly impress!