If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that packs a punch of spice and color, this Cajun Beef and Shrimp Stir-Fry is the perfect recipe to spice up your evening. With tender strips of beef, succulent shrimp, and zesty bell peppers, all seasoned with aromatic Cajun seasoning, this stir-fry brings bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. It’s a delightful fusion of seafood and beef, paired with vibrant veggies that make it an unforgettable meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Protein:
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice (preferably white or jasmine rice)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Protein
- Season the proteins: In a mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced beef sirloin and cleaned shrimp. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over them and toss well to ensure an even coating. The seasoning will add a burst of spicy flavor to both the beef and shrimp.
Step 2: Sear the Proteins
- Heat the skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Cook the beef and shrimp: Add the seasoned beef and shrimp to the skillet. Let them sear for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure an even cook. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the beef should be nicely browned on the edges. Once cooked, remove both the shrimp and beef from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies
- Cook the veggies: In the same skillet, add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The veggies should still have a little crispness left to maintain their freshness and texture.
- Add garlic: Once the veggies are almost done, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet
- Add beef broth: Pour in the beef broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits carry a lot of flavor, so don’t leave them behind!
- Combine with proteins: Return the cooked beef and shrimp to the skillet, stirring everything together to combine the flavors. Let it all simmer for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Simmer and Season
- Taste and adjust: Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 more minutes, so the flavors meld and the sauce reduces slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper as needed. The Cajun seasoning should already bring a lot of flavor, so be cautious when adding salt.
Step 6: Serve It Up
- Plate the dish: Serve the hot Cajun Beef and Shrimp Stir-Fry over a bed of cooked rice.
- Garnish: For a pop of freshness, garnish the stir-fry with fresh parsley.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning or skip the chili flakes. If you love heat, feel free to add extra chili flakes or even some hot sauce.
- Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for added texture and flavor.
- Rice alternatives: You can swap out the rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa if you’re looking for a lower-carb option.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly fine. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or quickly defrosting them under cold running water.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish in advance?
While stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the vegetables and season the meat in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
Conclusion
This Cajun Beef and Shrimp Stir-Fry is the perfect way to spice up your dinner routine with a quick, colorful, and flavorful dish. It’s a fantastic combination of tender beef, juicy shrimp, and crisp veggies, all coated in a zesty, savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner gathering, this dish will not disappoint. Serve it with a side of rice, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.