What oven temperature is best for baking Cajun salmon?

For perfectly baked Cajun salmon, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature cooks the salmon evenly, allowing the Cajun spices to develop a flavorful crust while keeping the fish moist and tender inside.

How long should I bake Cajun salmon fillets?

Bake Cajun salmon fillets for 16 to 18 minutes, depending on their thickness. Thicker fillets may require up to 20 minutes, while thinner ones might be done in 14 minutes. Always check for doneness to avoid overcooking.

How can I check if baked Cajun salmon is fully cooked?

To check if baked Cajun salmon is done, gently flake the thickest part with a fork; it should separate easily and have an opaque color. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer—salmon is safely cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make a Cajun seasoning mix for salmon at home?

Yes, making your own Cajun seasoning is simple and fresh. Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the heat by varying the cayenne to suit your taste before rubbing it onto the salmon.

What side dishes pair well with baked Cajun salmon?

Baked Cajun salmon pairs well with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad. Starches such as baked potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes complement the spicy flavors nicely, providing a balanced meal.

Baked Cajun Salmon Recipe With 3 Easy Ingredients

Name: Baked Cajun Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (approximately 170-200 grams each) [the star of the show, providing that rich, flaky texture]; 2 tablespoons olive oil [helps to keep everything moist and adds healthy fats]; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning [brings the spicy, bold flavor that makes this recipe pop]

Description

🐟 Enjoy a perfectly seasoned, flaky salmon dinner that’s ready in just 25 minutes with minimal cleanup
🌶️ Experience bold Cajun flavors that transform simple salmon into a restaurant-quality meal at home

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (approximately 170–200 grams each) [the star of the show, providing that rich, flaky texture]

2 tablespoons olive oil [helps to keep everything moist and adds healthy fats]

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning [brings the spicy, bold flavor that makes this recipe pop]

Instructions

1-First, set your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step ensures even cooking and prevents any sticking, making your life simpler. Once the oven is heating, you can move on to the salmon itself.

2-Next, pat the 4 salmon fillets dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick better. Mix the 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning into a paste for even flavor distribution. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and spread the mixture over them evenly.

3-Now, slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on it the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and hits an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For thicker fillets, you might need a couple more minutes, so adjust as needed.

4-After baking, let the salmon rest for a minute before serving to lock in the juices. If you’re going gluten-free or trying a vegan swap, use the right substitutes and check the cooking time to maintain that perfect texture. Pair it with sides like baked potatoes and broccoli for a complete meal that’s full of nutrients.

Notes

🌡️ Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness – salmon is done at 145°F internal temperature
🧄 Make your own Cajun seasoning blend for fresher flavor by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and dried herbs
🍽️ Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for effortless cleanup and to prevent sticking

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Calories: 198
Sugar: 0
Sodium: 450
Fat: 11
Saturated Fat: 2
Unsaturated Fat: 8
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 1
Fiber: 0
Protein: 23
Cholesterol: 55

Keywords: baked salmon, cajun seasoning, simple ingredients, healthy dinner