Creamy Cajun Salmon Penne

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, rich in texture, and surprisingly simple to make, Creamy Cajun Salmon Penne is your new go-to. This recipe brings together the smoky heat of Cajun spices with the lusciousness of creamy sauce, perfectly coating tender penne pasta and flaky salmon fillets. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with minimal effort. Let’s dive into why this recipe has so many cooks raving and exactly how to bring it to life in your kitchen.

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something magical about the combination of Cajun spices and salmon—the spices add a fiery kick that complements the mild, buttery flavor of the fish. When paired with a creamy sauce and al dente penne, it creates a balance of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile: you can easily swap ingredients to suit what you have on hand or tweak the spice level to your liking.

Many cooks love how fast this recipe comes together—just one pan for the sauce and salmon, plus a pot for pasta. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of penne and salmon, ensuring each bite is a mouthful of comfort. If you appreciate dishes with layers of flavor but don’t want to spend hours cooking, this is one recipe that checks all the boxes.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 oz penne pasta – the perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 lb salmon fillets – skin removed for easy eating and even cooking.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for searing the salmon and sautéing vegetables.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances the savory profile.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped – for crunch and color.
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the luscious, velvety sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – adds moisture and savory undertones.
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning – the star spice blend that brings heat and complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste – to elevate all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds brightness and a pop of green.

Gear Checklist

• Large pot – to boil the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the salmon and making the sauce.
• Sharp knife – to chop vegetables and fillet the salmon if needed.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the sauce.
• Colander – to drain the cooked pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate seasoning.

Creamy Cajun Salmon Penne: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the fillets skinless side down and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the veggies and stir well. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the creamy sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright finish. Serve immediately, savoring every creamy, spicy bite.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Salmon: Substitute with any white fish like cod or tilapia to save money or if salmon isn’t available. For a similar twist, try the Creamy Lemon Grilled Tilapia.
• Heavy cream: Use full-fat coconut milk or evaporated milk for a dairy-free option.
• Chicken broth: Vegetable broth works perfectly for a meat-free alternative.
• Cajun seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun spices on hand, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
• Penne pasta: Swap with any other pasta shape like fusilli or rigatoni to suit your pantry.

Method to the Madness

The key to nailing this recipe lies in layering flavors and balancing textures. Start by seasoning and searing the salmon well to develop a flavorful crust. Don’t rush the vegetable sauté—they add sweetness and aroma that soften the boldness of the Cajun spices. When you add the cream and broth, simmer gently to thicken the sauce without curdling. Lastly, folding the pasta and salmon in at the end ensures everything is coated without overcooking the fish.

• Maintain medium heat when cooking the sauce to prevent the cream from separating.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency—it helps everything cling beautifully.
• Use fresh parsley for garnish to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for extra zing if desired.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prep some components ahead to make dinner even faster:

• Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper a day in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Season the salmon fillets and keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge until ready to cook.
• Cook the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking; store in the fridge and reheat gently with the sauce.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days—reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon thoroughly in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and avoids sogginess.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Also, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the flavors rich and the dish creamy.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate level of heat and depth, but you can easily adjust it by reducing the amount or choosing a milder blend. For more kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing?

Definitely! Baking the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes works well. Just season it with Cajun spices and bake until cooked through, then flake and add to the sauce as directed.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• For another effortless seafood dinner, try the Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon—it’s a breeze and packed with flavor.
• Love creamy seafood dishes? The Creamy Lemon Grilled Tilapia is a refreshing alternative that cooks up fast.
• Want a one-pot meal? Try a Cajun chicken and rice skillet for a similar flavor profile with less cleanup.
• For a lighter option, toss Cajun-spiced shrimp with zucchini noodles and a drizzle of olive oil.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cajun Salmon Penne is a celebration of bold, comforting flavors that come together quickly in your kitchen. The combination of tender salmon, perfectly cooked penne, and a rich, spicy cream sauce delivers a dinner that feels special without requiring hours of prep or complicated techniques. By layering spices and fresh ingredients, you get a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, luscious textures, and memorable taste.

Give it a try tonight and treat yourself to a creamy, spicy pasta that hits all the right notes. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and pair it with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Happy cooking!

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