Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a decadent surf-and-turf dish that combines juicy, perfectly cooked steak with a rich, spicy shrimp sauce. This recipe is perfect for date night or any special occasion when you want to impress!
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks (8 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- ½ lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks:
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper. Let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130-135°F/54-57°C). Adjust cooking time for your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet, cover loosely with foil, and let rest.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Cajun Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the rested steaks on plates and spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Steak Temperature Guide:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
- Cajun Seasoning: Use store-bought or make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
- Seafood Alternatives: Swap shrimp for scallops, lobster, or crab for a different spin on the dish.
This indulgent meal delivers bold flavors and an elegant presentation every time!