Spiced Lemon Salmon and Shrimp Tray Bake

There is something so satisfying about a tray bake that comes together with almost no fuss but still feels colorful, fresh, and full of flavor. This spiced lemon salmon and shrimp tray bake is exactly that kind of meal. It is bright from the lemon, rich from the butter, and warmed through with garlic and a gentle Cajun-style spice that makes every bite taste lively and comforting at the same time.

This is the kind of dinner that feels perfect when you want something wholesome and beautiful without spending the whole evening in the kitchen. As it bakes, the onions soften, the lemon turns fragrant and slightly sweet, and the salmon and shrimp soak up all those savory juices. The result is tender, flaky fish, juicy shrimp, and a pan full of bold, buttery flavor that feels both cozy and fresh.

Ingredients

Here is everything you will need:

• 1 large salmon fillet, about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 large onion, sliced into thick rings

• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with foil or lightly grease a baking dish to make cleanup easier later.

Next, prepare the base. Spread the onion rings and lemon slices across the tray. This simple layer does more than hold everything up — it adds flavor underneath and makes the whole dish look especially inviting once baked.

In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. The mixture should smell buttery, citrusy, and full of warm spice.

Pat the salmon dry, then place it in the center of the tray. Rub most of the seasoning mixture all over the top and sides of the salmon, making sure it is well coated.

Arrange the shrimp around the salmon on top of the onions and lemons. Spoon the remaining seasoning mixture over the shrimp so they cook up flavorful and glossy.

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the shrimp should be pink and cooked through. Everything cooks quickly, so it is worth checking near the end.

For a little extra color, switch on the broiler for the final 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it here so the seafood stays tender and does not overcook.

When it comes out of the oven, sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top. Then serve it with the roasted onions, lemon slices, and all those delicious pan juices spooned over everything.

Presentation

This dish is naturally beautiful, so serving it can stay simple. Bring the tray straight to the table for a relaxed, rustic feel, or transfer the salmon to a large platter and arrange the shrimp, onions, and lemon slices around it for a more polished presentation.

A final sprinkle of parsley adds fresh color, and a few extra lemon wedges on the side make it feel even brighter. This tray bake pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or warm bread to catch all the buttery juices.

Nutritional Information:

• ⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

• 🔥 Kcal: 430 kcal per serving | 🍽️ Servings: 4 servings

Conclusion

Spiced lemon salmon and shrimp tray bake is one of those recipes that feels easy, vibrant, and a little special all at once. It gives you tender salmon, juicy shrimp, and layers of lemon, garlic, and spice in every bite, all with very little effort.

It is the kind of meal that looks impressive but feels wonderfully simple to make, which is always a lovely combination. If you are craving something fresh, cozy, and packed with flavor, this is definitely a recipe worth trying soon.