Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is the ultimate surf and turf dish that brings together the richness of juicy, perfectly seared ribeye steaks with a creamy, spicy Cajun shrimp sauce. This elegant yet hearty meal delivers an explosion of flavors, making it perfect for a special dinner or any occasion where you want to impress your family or guests. The combination of tender steak and succulent shrimp in a velvety sauce spiced with Cajun seasoning is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients :
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 lb each)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation :
Step 1:
Start by prepping the steaks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear, and season generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning (1 tbsp). Rub the seasoning into the steaks, ensuring an even coat on all sides. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
Step 2:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. When the oil is shimmering and hot, add the ribeye steaks. Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish (adjust cooking time if you prefer them more or less cooked). Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook the steaks one at a time if necessary. Once seared to perfection, remove the steaks from the pan and allow them to rest on a cutting board covered loosely with foil.
Step 3:
In the same skillet, without wiping it clean (so you retain all the flavorful steak drippings), lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir frequently.
Step 4:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, along with the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and onion powder. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The seasoning will coat the shrimp beautifully, giving them a spicy, smoky flavor.
Step 5:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine it with the spices and shrimp. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6:
Return the steaks to the skillet briefly to heat through and allow the flavors to meld. Serve the steaks on a plate and generously spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Cooking Notes :
- Steak Doneness: For medium-rare steaks, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). For medium, cook until the steak reaches 140°F (60°C), and for well-done, go up to 160°F (71°C).
- Shrimp: Be sure not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. They should be pink and opaque when done.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. To reduce the heat, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild Cajun blend.
- Pan Options: A cast-iron skillet works best for a good sear on the steaks and helps retain heat when cooking the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions :
This surf and turf dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. The rich and flavorful shrimp sauce can be soaked up with a side of crusty bread. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or asparagus makes an excellent complement to the bold flavors of the dish.
Tips :
- Room Temperature Steaks: Let your steaks come to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and results in a better sear.
- Resting the Steaks: After cooking the steaks, always let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
- Make it a Family Meal: Double the recipe to serve more guests, and offer a variety of side dishes like garlic butter rice or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Leftover Ideas: If you have leftovers, slice the steak and shrimp and toss them with pasta for a Cajun surf and turf pasta dish. The creamy sauce will coat the pasta beautifully.
Prep Time :
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 850
- Protein: 60g
- Sodium: 1200mg
FAQs :
Q1: Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, while ribeye is ideal for its rich marbling and flavor, you can substitute it with other cuts like sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip, depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just ensure that you thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by running them under cold water for a few minutes or letting them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Q3: Is there a dairy-free option for this dish?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. The coconut cream will add a slight sweetness to the sauce, but it still pairs wonderfully with the Cajun spices.
Q4: What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
Q5: How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp and drying out the steak.
Conclusion :
Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is the perfect blend of luxurious and comforting. It’s a dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your home, with juicy, seared ribeye steaks topped with succulent shrimp swimming in a creamy, spiced sauce. Whether you’re serving this dish for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, it’s sure to leave an impression. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its bold, balanced flavors, but also in its simplicity, making it a favorite for any steak and seafood lover.
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Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce (Surf and Turf)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients :
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 lb each)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation :
Step 1:
Start by prepping the steaks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear, and season generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning (1 tbsp). Rub the seasoning into the steaks, ensuring an even coat on all sides. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
Step 2:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. When the oil is shimmering and hot, add the ribeye steaks. Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish (adjust cooking time if you prefer them more or less cooked). Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook the steaks one at a time if necessary. Once seared to perfection, remove the steaks from the pan and allow them to rest on a cutting board covered loosely with foil.
Step 3:
In the same skillet, without wiping it clean (so you retain all the flavorful steak drippings), lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir frequently.
Step 4:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, along with the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and onion powder. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The seasoning will coat the shrimp beautifully, giving them a spicy, smoky flavor.
Step 5:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine it with the spices and shrimp. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6:
Return the steaks to the skillet briefly to heat through and allow the flavors to meld. Serve the steaks on a plate and generously spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
Cooking Notes :
- Steak Doneness: For medium-rare steaks, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). For medium, cook until the steak reaches 140°F (60°C), and for well-done, go up to 160°F (71°C).
- Shrimp: Be sure not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. They should be pink and opaque when done.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. To reduce the heat, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild Cajun blend.
- Pan Options: A cast-iron skillet works best for a good sear on the steaks and helps retain heat when cooking the shrimp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 850 Kcal
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Protein: 60g