Indulge in the best of both worlds with this Cajun Shrimp and Steak recipe. Juicy ribeye steaks and tender shrimp are seasoned with bold Cajun spices, then smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. This surf and turf dish is a luxurious, flavor-packed meal perfect for special occasions or weeknight indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion:Â Cajun seasoning adds a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy kick.
- Perfect for Surf and Turf Lovers:Â Combines the best of land and sea in one dish.
- Easy to Make:Â Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Rich Creamy Sauce:Â Parmesan and cream elevate the flavors to gourmet status.
Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp and Steak
Main Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Steaks
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steaks to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest while preparing the shrimp and sauce.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp and sprinkle with the remaining Cajun seasoning.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked steaks and shrimp to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- With Sides:Â Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp side salad.
- Low-Carb Option:Â Serve with cauliflower mash or steamed broccoli.
- Wine Pairing:Â Complement this dish with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a chilled white like Chardonnay.
Tips for Perfect Cajun Shrimp and Steak
- Room Temperature Meat:Â Let steaks sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook just until pink to keep them juicy and tender.
- Customize Spice Level:Â Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning for your preferred level of heat.
- Deglaze the Pan:Â Use the chicken broth to scrape up any flavorful bits from the skillet before adding cream for an extra boost of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Sirloin or filet mignon are great alternatives to ribeye.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the Parmesan cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I grill the steak instead?
Absolutely! Grill the steak to your desired doneness and follow the recipe for the shrimp and sauce.
Conclusion: Surf and Turf at Its Best
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak recipe is a showstopper that combines bold flavors and indulgent textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to something special, this surf and turf sensation is sure to impress.
Try it tonight and savor the magic of Cajun cooking!