Description
Cajun Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta with Roasted Broccoli
This creamy and flavorful Alfredo pasta is loaded with spicy Cajun-seasoned salmon and shrimp, tossed with roasted broccoli and a rich Parmesan sauce—perfect for seafood lovers!
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Salmon & Shrimp:
2 salmon fillets, cubed
½ lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Pasta:
8 oz rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine
1 cup broccoli florets, roasted
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Prepare the Pasta & Broccoli:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Cook the Cajun Salmon & Shrimp:
Toss salmon & shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side.
In the same pan, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring until thick.
Combine Everything:
Toss the cooked pasta and roasted broccoli in the Alfredo sauce.
Top with Cajun salmon & shrimp and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick!
Enjoy this creamy, bold, and satisfying seafood pasta!
Would you like a spicier version or a side dish suggestion?
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed workflow. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and start a large pot of salted water for the pasta. Toss the broccoli with oil and seasonings, then place it on a baking sheet to roast. As it roasts, season your salmon and shrimp. Begin cooking the pasta so it finishes as the sauce is made. In a large skillet, cook the salmon, then the shrimp, and set them aside. Using the same pan (for extra flavor), prepare the Alfredo sauce. Finally, combine the drained pasta and roasted broccoli with the sauce, then top with the seafood.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta immediately while hot. For a restaurant-quality presentation, use tongs to twirl the pasta into the center of a shallow bowl, then artfully arrange the salmon, shrimp, and broccoli on top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette and a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
This dish comes together by managing four key components in sequence: 1) Roast broccoli florets in the oven. 2) Boil pasta until al dente. 3) Sauté Cajun-seasoned salmon and shrimp in a skillet. 4) Create a simple Alfredo sauce in the same pan. Combine the pasta and broccoli with the sauce, then top with the cooked seafood. The entire meal can be completed in about 30 minutes with careful timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Chicken or andouille sausage are excellent substitutes that pair well with the Cajun flavors.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Omit the red pepper flakes in the sauce and use a mild or salt-free Cajun seasoning blend for the seafood.
What’s the best way to prevent overcooked salmon? Ensure your salmon cubes are of even size (about 1-inch) and remove them from the skillet as soon as they are opaque and flake easily. They will continue to cook slightly off the heat.
Can I prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time? Fresh is best, as the sauce can thicken and separate upon reheating. If necessary, store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a slightly lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich and thick. Do not boil it vigorously.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Seafood: Cook shrimp and salmon just until done. Rubber shrimp and dry salmon will ruin the dish’s texture.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate a block of Parmesan fresh.
- Neglecting to Salt the Pasta Water: The water should taste like the sea. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
- Crowding the Pan: Cook the salmon in a single layer with space between pieces to ensure a good sear and even cooking.
Conclusion
This Cajun Salmon & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a show-stopping meal that masterfully balances creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can confidently create a restaurant-worthy dinner at home. It’s a versatile recipe that invites customization to suit your taste, promising a satisfying and impressive culinary experience for any seafood enthusiast.