Name: Cajun Blackened Salmon Recipe
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tbsp salt; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp sage; 2 lbs salmon fillets; 4 tbsp 1/2 stick butter

Pin2K

Yum3K

4K Shares

This post may contain affiliate links (disclosure).

Cajun Blackened Salmon is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. Perfectly seasoned with a homemade spice rub and cooked to perfection in butter, this salmon boasts a bold, smoky crust and tender, flaky insides. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to spice up your dinner routine, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Blackened Salmon

Incredible Flavor: The blend of spices in the Cajun rub creates a perfect balance of heat and aromatic herbs, making every bite irresistible. The butter adds a richness that elevates the entire dish.
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table faster than takeout!
Customizable Blackening: You control how blackened the salmon gets, from lightly crisped edges to a deeply charred crust. Adjust to your taste with ease.
Homemade Cajun Rub: Making the spice mix from scratch means you can adjust the flavors to your preference and even store the leftovers for future meals.
Perfect Texture: The crispy exterior pairs beautifully with the moist, flaky salmon inside, making this a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive.

Cajun blackened salmon recipe is made by rubbing the salmon with a special spice rub and then cooking on a frying pan in butter until blackened. The degree of how much you want to blacken it is up to you – on the picture above it’s blackened just a little bit, but I’ve seen people blackened it to the point where the whole side is completely charred. The recipe is the same – to blacken the salmon even more you can just cook it longer.

Ingredients For Cajun Blackened Salmon

Paprika – Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the spice rub.
Salt – Enhances the flavors of the salmon and the spice mix.
Onion Powder and Garlic Powder – Bring a savory and aromatic base to the rub.
Cayenne Pepper – Provides the signature kick of heat in the Cajun blend.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice and balances the other flavors.
Thyme, Oregano, and Sage – Infuse the rub with earthy and herbaceous notes.
Salmon Fillets – Rich, meaty, and perfect for soaking up the bold flavors of the spice mix.
Butter – Ensures a crisp, blackened crust while adding a layer of richness.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

I’ve heard the the blackened salmon recipe originated by accident – the cook in the restaurant accidently burned the fish, but still served it in a crunch. People loved this fish so much that it was put on a restaurant menu and was called “blackened” :)

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Cajun Blackened Salmon:

Frying Pan: Essential for achieving the perfect blackened crust on the salmon.
Spatula: Makes flipping the salmon easy while keeping the fillets intact.
Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate proportions for the spice rub ingredients.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the spices into the homemade Cajun rub.

This blackened Cajun salmon recipe uses a spice rub made from scratch by mixing various spices. When you make this spice rub, just store the leftover spice in an air-tight jar so you can use it next time when you make this recipe again. Or instead of mixing the spices yourself, you can just use ready-made Cajun seasoning spice for the blackened salmon – it will also taste really good!

How To Make Cajun Blackened Salmon

Combine all the spices in a bowl to create the Cajun rub.
Heat butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat until melted.
Generously coat the salmon fillets with the spice rub, ensuring even coverage.
Place the salmon in the hot pan and cook for about 4 minutes on one side, allowing it to blacken.
Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 4 minutes, or until they blacken to your liking.
Check for doneness by testing if the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the pan and serve immediately while warm.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cajun Blackened Salmon with a side of steamed rice or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful juices.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts and carrots for a balanced and colorful meal.
Add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a refreshing contrast to the spice.
Serve alongside crusty bread to mop up the buttery pan drippings.
Use leftovers to make a delicious salmon wrap or broccoli salad for the next day.

Tips For Success

Choose Fresh Salmon: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Look for vibrant pink flesh and avoid any fishy odors.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For a spicier kick, add a touch more!
Dry the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels before applying the spice rub. This helps the rub stick better and ensures even blackening.
Preheat the Pan: Make sure your frying pan is hot before adding the salmon. A hot pan is key to achieving a crisp and flavorful crust.
Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly and becomes dry if overcooked. Remove it from the heat as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
Cook in Batches: If making a large amount, cook the salmon in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
Save the Spice Mix: Store any leftover Cajun rub in an airtight container for future use. It works well on chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables.

Variations And Substitutions

Change the Protein: This Cajun blackened spice rub works wonderfully on other proteins like chicken breasts, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times based on the protein.
Make it Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative or use a neutral cooking oil like avocado or olive oil. The result will still be flavorful with a slightly different texture.
Milder Version: For a less spicy rub, reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute with sweet smoked paprika. You’ll still enjoy the rich flavors without the heat.
Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have sage or oregano, replace them with parsley or marjoram for a slightly different herbal profile.
Try Ready-Made Cajun Seasoning: For convenience, use a store-bought Cajun seasoning blend. Adjust the salt level to avoid over-seasoning.
Cook in the Oven: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the seasoned salmon for about 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. This method is less hands-on but still delicious.
Add a Sauce: Serve with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch, tzatziki, or a lemon-dill yogurt sauce for a cooling complement to the spicy salmon.
Crispy Skin Option: If your salmon fillets have the skin on, cook them skin-side down first to render the fat and achieve a crispy texture before flipping.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Cajun Blackened Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with foil and cover it loosely to retain moisture. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through.
Reheating on the Stove: Heat a nonstick skillet over low heat and warm the salmon gently, flipping occasionally, until heated thoroughly. Add a small pat of butter if needed to prevent sticking.
Microwave Option: Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 20-30 second intervals until just warm, taking care not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning. This helps the spice rub adhere properly and ensures even cooking.

What’s the best type of salmon to use?

Wild-caught salmon, like sockeye or coho, is ideal for its rich flavor and firm texture. However, farm-raised salmon works well too and is often more affordable.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist and tender.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also substitute with a mild paprika for a flavorful but less spicy rub.

What can I serve with Cajun Blackened Salmon?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a true Cajun-inspired meal, try it with dirty rice or cornbread.

Is it possible to cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook this in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, place the seasoned salmon fillets in the basket, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the pan and butter are hot before adding the salmon. Use a nonstick pan or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to avoid sticking.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover Cajun Blackened Salmon can be flaked and added to salads, tacos, or pasta dishes. It’s also great as a protein-rich topping for rice bowls.

Other Easy Salmon Recipes

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bites – Simple Party Appetizer: These elegant and easy-to-make bites combine rich smoked salmon with creamy cheese for a perfect party snack.

Foil-Wrapped Air Fryer Salmon: Tender and juicy salmon fillets cooked to perfection in foil for a no-mess, flavorful meal.

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Fillets: These air fryer salmon fillets have a perfectly crisp exterior and moist, flaky interior in just minutes.

Creamy Canned Salmon Chowder: A hearty and comforting soup made with canned salmon, creamy broth, and aromatic spices.

Cheesy Baked Salmon With Mayo Topping: Deliciously tender baked salmon topped with a creamy mayo and cheese crust for a quick and easy dinner.

Low-Carb Salmon Spinach Egg Casserole: A protein-packed, keto-friendly casserole loaded with salmon, spinach, and eggs for a satisfying meal.

Fresh or Canned Salmon Keto Salad: A refreshing and low-carb salad made with salmon, crisp greens, and a zesty homemade dressing.

Click Here To Pin This Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe

5 from 2 votes