Looking to impress with a restaurant-worthy meal that’s easier to make than it looks? This Blackened Salmon with Shrimp Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Asparagus delivers a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and creamy flavors that come together in under an hour.
Juicy blackened salmon fillets are topped with a luxurious shrimp cream sauce, paired with buttery mashed potatoes and crisp-tender asparagus. This recipe brings an elegant fine-dining experience right to your kitchen—no reservations required.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Blackened Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp Cream Sauce
- ½ pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Asparagus
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Place peeled, cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Cover and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or sauté in a pan until tender-crisp. Set aside.
Step 3: Season and Sear the Salmon
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Rub each fillet with olive oil and coat with blackened seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Shrimp Cream Sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink (about 2–3 minutes per side).
- Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Place a scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate.
- Lay a salmon fillet on top and spoon shrimp cream sauce generously over it.
- Add asparagus to the side and garnish with chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle a touch of extra sauce over the mashed potatoes for an added burst of flavor.
- Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten the dish.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 680 |
| Protein | 46 grams |
| Total Fat | 39 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 19 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 36 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 520 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Salmon and shrimp provide lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
- Asparagus adds fiber, folate, and antioxidants.
- Mashed potatoes offer comfort and energy from complex carbohydrates.
- Cream sauce adds richness — lighten it by using half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- For the blackening spice, adjust heat level by controlling paprika and cayenne.
- Don’t overcook the salmon — it should be moist and flaky, not dry.
- Let the cream sauce simmer gently; boiling can cause it to separate.
- Substitute cauliflower mash for potatoes for a lower-carb option.
This Blackened Salmon with Shrimp Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, and Asparagus is an elegant, indulgent meal that blends creamy, spicy, and savory flavors beautifully. It’s perfect for date nights, special occasions, or simply elevating your weeknight dinner routine.
Serve it hot, garnish it beautifully, and savor a restaurant-quality dish made right in your own kitchen.