Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the perfect balance of spice and creaminess in a hearty bowl of Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta. The smoky heat from Cajun seasoning meets the richness of a luscious sauce, coating every strand of pasta and tender flake of salmon. This dish is indulgent, yet surprisingly simple to make, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to use up leftover salmon from the night before. One bite in, and I knew it was a keeper—bold flavors, velvety texture, and just the right kick of spice. Now, it’s a go-to meal whenever I want something comforting but still packed with flavor.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that checks all the right boxes—easy, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.

It’s quick and easy. You can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Packed with bold flavors. The Cajun seasoning gives just the right amount of heat, complemented by the creamy sauce and fresh salmon. Every bite is a flavor explosion.

A great way to enjoy salmon. If you're looking for a new way to prepare salmon, this pasta is a fantastic option. The flaky, tender fish pairs beautifully with the rich sauce and al dente pasta.

Customizable to your taste. Prefer shrimp instead? Want to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers? This dish is endlessly adaptable, so you can make it just the way you like it.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta is that it relies on simple, flavorful ingredients that come together harmoniously. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salmon – Fresh or frozen (and thawed) salmon fillets work great for this recipe. Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible for the best flavor and texture.

Pasta – Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work best since they hold onto the sauce well. I love fettuccine because it creates the perfect bite with the creamy sauce.

Cajun seasoning – This is the heart of the dish! Use a store-bought blend or make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and dried herbs. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Heavy cream and parmesan cheese – These two ingredients create the luscious, creamy sauce that brings everything together. For a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Garlic and onions – These aromatic ingredients add depth to the sauce and enhance the Cajun flavors.

A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are all you need for this dish, making cleanup a breeze.

How To Make This Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta

Making this dish is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Meanwhile, season your salmon fillets generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil, then sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and soft. This step helps to build a rich flavor base for the sauce.

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the seasonings. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes before adding grated parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce, creating a velvety texture. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the skillet, stirring gently to coat it in the sauce. Then, toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring every strand is covered in creamy, spicy goodness.

Once everything is combined, remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a final pop of flavor.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them easily for another meal.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

Freeze: While the pasta and sauce can be frozen, the texture of the salmon may change slightly. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the salmon from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Swap the protein – Not a fan of salmon? Try shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a different twist.

Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free version.

Add veggies – Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make fantastic additions, adding more texture and nutrients.

Turn up (or down) the heat – Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice. For a milder version, use a bit less seasoning and balance it with more cream.

However you decide to make it, this Creamy Cajun Salmon Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let me know how you customize yours!

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