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Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal. Picture this: a perfectly seared, juicy steak, cooked to your liking, and topped with plump, succulent shrimp swimming in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce. The combination of the bold, spicy heat from the Cajun seasoning and the sweetness of the shrimp creates a balance of flavors that’s nothing short of irresistible. The creamy sauce ties everything together, adding a luxurious richness that’s hard to resist.
I love making this dish when I want to treat myself or impress guests with something special. I remember preparing it for a dinner party, and everyone couldn’t stop talking about how the flavors melded so beautifully. The richness of the steak paired with the spiced shrimp made for the perfect bite, and the sauce was the star of the show—creamy, tangy, and with just the right amount of kick.
What makes Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce so fantastic is how it’s both decadent and approachable. It’s a great dish for date nights, celebrations, or just when you want to go all out on a weekend treat. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, meaning you can serve up a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
Here’s why Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce will quickly become one of your favorite meals:
- Rich and Flavorful Sauce: The creamy Cajun sauce, with its bold spices, brings the dish to life and adds a layer of depth to the steak and shrimp.
- Perfect Balance of Spice and Creaminess: The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning and rich, creamy sauce creates the perfect balance between heat and richness, making each bite unforgettable.
- Juicy Steak and Tender Shrimp: The steak is perfectly seared, and the shrimp are cooked just right, making for a satisfying and tender bite in every mouthful.
- Quick and Easy to Make: Despite its luxurious flavor, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and casual weeknight dinners.
- Impressive and Elegant Presentation: The steak and shrimp, smothered in the creamy sauce, make for a visually stunning dish that will impress guests.
Preparation and Cooking Time:
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 650-700 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 45g
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- 4 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (6-8 oz each)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Ingredient Highlights:
- Steak: Ribeye or sirloin are ideal cuts for this dish, offering great flavor and tenderness.
- Shrimp: Large, juicy shrimp are key to balancing the richness of the steak and sauce, adding sweetness and a satisfying texture.
- Cajun Seasoning: The Cajun seasoning is what gives the dish its signature spicy flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Heavy Cream: This adds a luscious, velvety texture to the sauce, making it creamy and rich.
- Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth helps thin the sauce and adds additional depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Here’s how to prepare Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
Cook the Steaks:
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.
- Cook the Steaks: Heat a cast-iron skillet or large pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F.
- Rest the Steaks: Once the steaks are cooked, transfer them to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest while you prepare the sauce.
Prepare the Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder over the onions and garlic. Stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the broth to reduce slightly for 2 minutes.
- Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat the shrimp through and ensure they are coated in the sauce.
Assemble the Dish:
- Serve: Place the rested steaks on serving plates. Spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top, ensuring each steak gets a generous portion of shrimp and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
How to Serve:
Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce soaks perfectly into mashed potatoes, making it a comforting side dish.
- Over Rice: Serve the steak and shrimp over a bed of white rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli to balance out the richness.
- With Garlic Bread: For a carb-loaded indulgence, serve with crispy garlic bread to dip into the creamy sauce.
- With a Side Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the sauce, providing a nice contrast.
Additional Tips:
Here are some tips to make your Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce even better:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or swap it for a less spicy option.
- Add More Veggies: For a more well-rounded meal, you can add bell peppers or spinach to the sauce along with the onions and garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the steak, make sure to scrape up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds extra depth to the sauce.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the steak and shrimp immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.
Recipe Variations:
Here are 10 variations you can try for Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- With Lobster Tail: Swap the shrimp for lobster tail for an even more luxurious seafood option.
- Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce: Add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Sauce: Add grated Parmesan to the sauce for a cheesy twist.
- Grilled Shrimp: Grill the shrimp for a smoky flavor instead of cooking them in the skillet.
- With Scallops: Try replacing the shrimp with scallops for a different seafood flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and use sautéed mushrooms in the creamy sauce for a vegetarian variation.
- With Bacon: Add crispy bacon to the sauce for extra flavor and crunch.
- Mushroom Cajun Sauce: Incorporate sliced mushrooms into the sauce for added texture and flavor.
- With Cream Cheese: Swap some of the heavy cream for cream cheese for a thicker, tangier sauce.
- With Spaghetti: Serve the steak and shrimp over a bed of pasta for a filling, hearty meal.
Freezing and Storage:
- Freezing: This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the shrimp and steak separately and reassemble the dish fresh.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid separating the sauce.
Special Equipment:
Here are some special equipment items that can help you prepare Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet provides even heat for perfectly searing steaks and making the sauce.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures your steak is cooked to your preferred level of doneness.
- Garlic Press: A garlic press makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
- Tongs: For flipping the steak and shrimp without piercing them, keeping all the juices intact.
- Whisk: For stirring the sauce and ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts like filet mignon, strip steak, or flank steak. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the cut. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the steak and shrimp are best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat it before serving and add the shrimp. - Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. - Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet. - Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
More Recipe Suggestions:
Creamy Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup
Steak & Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles
Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce (Surf and Turf)
Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal. Picture this: a perfectly seared, juicy steak, cooked to your liking, and topped with plump, succulent shrimp swimming in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce. The combination of the bold, spicy heat from the Cajun seasoning and the sweetness of the shrimp creates a balance of flavors that’s nothing short of irresistible. The creamy sauce ties everything together, adding a luxurious richness that’s hard to resist.
Servings 4 Servings
Equipment
- Large Skillet (I prefer cast-iron, it goes from stove/oven to table)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks 6–8 oz each
- 1 lb. large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
- Lemon wedges for serving optional
Instructions
Cook the Steaks:
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.
- Cook the Steaks: Heat a cast-iron skillet or large pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F.
- Rest the Steaks: Once the steaks are cooked, transfer them to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest while you prepare the sauce.
Prepare the Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder over the onions and garlic. Stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the broth to reduce slightly for 2 minutes.
- Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat the shrimp through and ensure they are coated in the sauce.
Assemble the Dish:
- Serve: Place the rested steaks on serving plates. Spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top, ensuring each steak gets a generous portion of shrimp and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
