Seared salmon shrimp garlic sauce

This Southern Garlic Shrimp Salmon brings together perfectly seared salmon and plump shrimp tossed in a luscious creamy garlic sauce, all served over tender white rice. It’s a comforting dinner that feels special but comes together faster than you might expect.

I first made this recipe when craving something cozy but fancy for a weeknight. It quickly became a go-to for family dinners because everyone loves the garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked seafood.

Ingredients

• One salmon fillet: choose fresh and firm to ensure a flaky finish
• Twelve to fifteen large shrimp peeled and deveined: fresh or thawed, look for firm flesh and avoid any with off odors
• Two cups cooked white rice: jasmine or long grain works well for a fluffy base
• Three tablespoons butter: gives richness and helps develop flavor in the sauce
• Three tablespoons olive oil: for searing and moisture balance
• Five cloves garlic minced: garlic is central here for that bold Southern flavor
• One cup heavy cream: makes the sauce smooth and indulgent
• One teaspoon paprika: adds earthiness and color; I prefer smoked paprika if available
• One teaspoon onion powder: rounds out the savory flavor
• One teaspoon dried parsley: brightens the sauce with a mild herb note
• Half a teaspoon cayenne pepper optional: adds a gentle heat, adjust to your taste
• Salt and black pepper: essential seasoning
• One teaspoon lemon juice: a touch of acidity to lift and balance the richness

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat three tablespoons olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook gently, stirring frequently for about one to two minutes until fragrant but not browned. This soft garlic infusion is the heart of your sauce.

Season and Sear the Salmon:

Pat the salmon dry, then season with salt, black pepper, paprika and a drizzle of olive oil. Place skin-side down in the hot pan and cook for about four to five minutes without moving it, allowing a crispy crust to develop. Flip and cook another three to four minutes until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp:

In the same pan, melt three tablespoons butter. Add shrimp and season with salt, pepper, paprika and dried parsley. Cook for two to three minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook or the shrimp will become rubbery.

Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Add one cup heavy cream to the pan with the shrimp. Stir in onion powder and cayenne (if using). Lower heat and simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, about three to five minutes. Stir in one teaspoon lemon juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Serve:

Spoon cooked white rice onto each plate. Top with the seared salmon fillet and ladle the shrimp with creamy garlic sauce generously over everything. Serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture.

I love how the garlic really shines through in this dish. One memorable dinner was when a friend who normally shies away from seafood asked for seconds of this meal. It was a proud moment knowing I could bring Southern comfort in a skillet to their plate.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent overcooking the shrimp and salmon. Creamy sauce can sometimes separate when reheated so stir well and add a splash of cream or milk if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to add a subtle tropical twist. If you prefer milder seafood flavors, substitute the salmon with cod or tilapia.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans to balance the richness. A wedge of lemon on the side brightens the plate and complements the garlicky sauce.

Enjoy this comforting Southern Garlic Shrimp Salmon with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. It’s a quick, elegant weeknight meal that feels special.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ How do I achieve perfectly seared salmon?

Season salmon with salt, pepper, and paprika, then sear on medium heat until golden and cooked through, usually 3-4 minutes per side.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, thaw shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even searing and proper texture.

→ What spices complement the creamy garlic sauce?

Paprika, onion powder, parsley, and a hint of cayenne pepper add warmth and depth without overpowering the garlic flavor.

→ Is heavy cream necessary for the sauce?

Heavy cream provides richness and smoothness, but full-fat coconut milk can be a substitute for a dairy-free variation.

→ How should the rice be prepared for best results?

Use fluffy, cooked white rice that can absorb the creamy sauce, enhancing the dish’s comforting texture.

→ Can the dish be made gluten-free?

Yes, this meal contains no gluten ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.