This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a luxurious surf-and-turf dish that combines juicy, perfectly seared steak with succulent shrimp bathed in a zesty Cajun cream sauce. Ideal for special occasions or indulgent date nights!
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- 1 lb steak (e.g., strip loin, ribeye)
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
For the Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Steak:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the steaks generously with Cajun seasoning.
- Sear the steaks on both sides for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
- Remove the steaks from the skillet, cover with foil, and let rest.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan by adding the chicken broth or white wine, scraping up the browned bits with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 minute.
4. Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley for brightness.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to coat in the sauce.
5. Serve:
- Place the steaks on serving plates and pour the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Steak in Cajun Shrimp Sauce
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them juicy and tender.
- Wine Substitute: Chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic option for deglazing.
- Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for more heat.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked steak and shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins?
Yes! You can substitute steak with chicken or pork, and shrimp with scallops or lobster for a twist.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or buttered pasta to soak up the sauce.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Absolutely! Homemade Cajun seasoning works too if you prefer to control the spice levels.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Conclusion
This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a show-stopping dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. The combination of juicy steak, tender shrimp, and a rich, zesty sauce makes this meal unforgettable. Pair with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a dinner that’s sure to impress!
Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!