Looking for an absolutely dreamy, flavor-packed dinner that’s on the table in under 30 minutes? This Baked Cajun Salmon is the answer! Each fillet comes out unbelievably juicy and tender, coated in a smoky, spicy Cajun crust that’s positively irresistible.
What makes this salmon so special? It’s incredibly easy, uses one pan, and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. A quick homemade Cajun spice mix and a brush of olive oil take fresh salmon fillets from simple to standout.
Whether you’re spicing up your weekly meal plan or serving a healthy dish for friends, this Cajun salmon brings maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It’s my go-to for bold, crowd-pleasing dinnersâ€"perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A flavor explosion: Smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning wakes up your tastebuds in every bite.
- Simple and quick: Prep in 10 minutes; dinner’s ready in less than 30!
- Healthy and satisfying: High in protein and omega-3s, low in carbs, and naturally gluten free.
- No-fuss cleanup: Everything bakes on a single sheet panâ€"stress-free for those busy nights.
Key Ingredients for Baked Cajun Salmon
See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.Salmon Fillets
The star of the show! Opt for fresh, center-cut salmon fillets about 6 ounces each. Skin-on fillets help lock in moisture and make handling easy, but you can use skinless if preferred. Wild-caught salmon offers a firmer texture and richer flavor, though farm-raised works well too.
Cajun Seasoning
This fiery blend gives the salmon its signature kick. Homemade is best for adjusting the spice to your taste: combine smoked paprika, garlic and onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. In a pinch, a good quality store-bought Cajun or Creole seasoning is just fine.
Olive Oil
Brushing the salmon with olive oil helps the seasoning stick and ensures a beautifully crisp, golden top. You can swap in melted butter for extra richness, or use avocado oil for its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Lemon
Fresh lemon juice brightens the bold Cajun flavors and cuts through the richness of the fish. A generous squeeze before serving is key! Lime is a zesty substitution if you’re feeling adventurous.
Fresh Parsley
A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end adds a pop of color and freshness. Flat-leaf parsley is classicâ€"but you could use cilantro for a bright, slightly citrusy note, or sliced green onions for mild bite.
Instructions for Baked Cajun Salmon
See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it for easy cleanup. Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towelsâ€"this trick ensures crispy edges.
Mix and Season
In a small bowl, stir together Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt (if needed). Brush the tops and sides of each fillet with olive oil, then generously coat with your spice mix, pressing gently to adhere. Top each fillet with a thin slice of lemon.
Bake the Salmon
Arrange salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) on the prepared sheet. Bake for 14 to 18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque. For extra color, broil the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely so it doesn't burn!
Garnish and Serve
Transfer salmon to plates and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately, with extra lemon wedges for squeezing.
Recipe Variations
Make It Mild
Not a fan of spice? Reduce the amount of cayenne in your Cajun seasoning, or use half Cajun and half smoked paprika. Kids especially love this gentler version!
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free
This recipe is already gluten and dairy free, making it perfect for those with sensitivities. Just double check your Cajun spice blend to ensure it doesn't contain hidden gluten.
Sheet Pan Dinner
For a one-pan meal, add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to the baking sheet around the salmon. Drizzle veggies with a little olive oil and Cajun spiceâ€"everything bakes together in under 20 minutes.
Try It With Different Fish
No salmon? This Cajun method is just as delicious on tilapia, cod, or trout. Adjust baking times for thinner fillets (10 to 14 minutes).
Honey Cajun Salmon
For a sweet-spicy twist, brush the fillets lightly with honey before adding the Cajun spice. It caramelizes in the oven for the most mouthwatering glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Baked Cajun Salmon with fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. Roasted sweet potatoes or garlic sautéed green beans are delicious on the side, and don’t forget extra lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Cajun salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place fillets on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil; warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until just heated through. You can also use the microwave in 30-second bursts, though the oven keeps the texture best. For longer storage, freeze cooked salmon up to 2 monthsâ€"thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cajun Salmon (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?A: Yes! Thaw the salmon completely and pat very dry before seasoning. This ensures you get a crisp exterior and even cooking.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?A: The fish should flake easily with a fork and look opaque rather than translucent. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) guarantees perfect doneness.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?A: The heat level depends on your Cajun blendâ€"taste yours first! You can always reduce the amount of cayenne or use a mild blend for a less spicy dish.
Can’t wait for you to try this Baked Cajun Salmonâ€"it’s fast, foolproof, and bursting with flavor! If you make it, please leave a rating or a comment below. Your feedback always makes my day and helps others enjoy great homemade meals!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (skip if your Cajun blend is salty)
- 1 lemon, sliced, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet.
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2Pat salmon fillets dry and place on sheet.
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3In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
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4Brush fillets with olive oil and rub seasoning blend onto all sides.
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5Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
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6Bake salmon for 14 to 18 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
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7Broil last 1-2 minutes if you want extra color.
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8Garnish with parsley and fresh lemon, then serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
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