Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce (Surf and Turf)

This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is the perfect surf and turf dish, featuring a juicy, pan-seared steak topped with shrimp in a rich and spicy Cajun cream sauce. With a perfect balance of flavors, this indulgent meal is great for a special occasion or a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 pound steak (strip loin, ribeye, filet mignon, etc.)
  • Cajun seasoning (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

Directions

  1. Cook the Steak:
    • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Season the steaks with Cajun seasoning to taste.
    • Sear until lightly browned on both sides and cooked to your preferred doneness.
    • Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp:
    • Reduce heat to medium and add butter.
    • Add shrimp and cook until pink on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side.
    • Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • Add chopped garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
    • Pour in the chicken broth (or wine) and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
    • Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
    • Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
    • Mix in lemon juice and chopped parsley.
  4. Assemble and Serve:
    • Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix into the sauce.
    • Serve the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the steaks.
    • Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Option: Substitute shrimp with scallops or lobster for a different twist!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 668
  • Fat: 55g (Saturated 26g, Trans 1g)
  • Cholesterol: 243mg
  • Sodium: 532mg
  • Carbohydrates: 6g (Fiber 0.5g, Sugars 2g)
  • Protein: 35g

Enjoy your rich and flavorful Cajun surf and turf! 🍽️🔥

What Makes This Dish Special?

This dish combines two beloved proteins—steak and shrimp—into one unforgettable meal. The steak is seared to perfection, forming a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The creamy Cajun shrimp sauce elevates the dish with its spicy, garlicky, and buttery flavors, creating a mouthwatering contrast to the rich, meaty steak.

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare despite its gourmet appeal. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve a meal that rivals anything you’d order at a high-end steakhouse. The combination of textures and flavors—from the velvety smooth sauce to the bold spice blend—ensures that every bite is packed with taste and satisfaction.

Choosing the Perfect Steak

The foundation of this dish is the steak, and selecting the right cut is crucial to achieving the best results. Some of the best options include:

  • Ribeye: Known for its marbling, ribeye is rich, juicy, and full of flavor.
  • Filet Mignon: If you prefer a more tender steak with a buttery texture, filet mignon is an excellent choice.
  • Strip Loin (New York Strip): This cut strikes a balance between tenderness and beefy flavor, making it a great option for this dish.

No matter which cut you choose, it’s essential to cook the steak to your preferred doneness, allowing the natural juices to remain locked inside. Letting the steak rest after cooking also ensures that the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and flavorful.

The Cajun Shrimp Sauce: A Bold and Creamy Finish

The creamy Cajun shrimp sauce is what sets this dish apart from a traditional steak dinner. Made with a blend of Cajun spices, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, this sauce is both rich and packed with flavor. The shrimp cook quickly in butter, absorbing all the seasoning while remaining tender and juicy.

One of the secrets to a great Cajun sauce is the balance between spice and creaminess. The Cajun seasoning brings in heat and depth, while the cream and Parmesan cheese mellow out the flavors, creating a luscious, velvety texture. A splash of lemon juice brightens up the sauce, preventing it from feeling too heavy.

Why Cajun Seasoning Works So Well

Cajun seasoning is the heart of this dish, providing its signature bold and spicy flavor. A typical Cajun spice blend includes:

  • Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet depth to the dish.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Brings heat, which can be adjusted based on your spice preference.
  • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essential for adding aromatic depth to the seasoning.
  • Black Pepper & White Pepper: Deliver complexity with a mild, peppery heat.
  • Dried Oregano & Thyme: Provide a touch of herbal freshness.

The spice blend enhances both the steak and shrimp, ensuring that every component of the dish is infused with rich, Southern-inspired flavors.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with This Dish

To round out this luxurious meal, consider pairing it with sides that complement the bold flavors and creamy texture of the dish. Some excellent options include:

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich Cajun sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a fresh contrast to the richness of the meal.
  • Buttery Rice or Cajun Dirty Rice: Rice helps absorb the creamy sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: A sweet and smoky element that pairs well with the Cajun spices.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the dish.

Tips for the Best Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

To achieve a perfect surf and turf experience, follow these tips:

  1. Let the steak come to room temperature – Allowing the steak to rest at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking.
  2. Pat the steak dry before seasoning – Removing excess moisture helps create a crispier sear.
  3. Use a hot pan – A cast-iron skillet or heavy pan works best to develop a flavorful crust on the steak.
  4. Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain tender.
  5. Deglaze the pan properly – Using chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan helps incorporate all the delicious browned bits into the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
  6. Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or add extra cream to balance the heat.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

  • Try a different protein: Instead of shrimp, use scallops, crab meat, or even lobster for an ultra-luxurious version.
  • Make it keto-friendly: Serve the steak and shrimp with low-carb sides like roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
  • Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra cayenne pepper for an extra fiery kick.
  • Use a different cheese: Parmesan adds a salty depth, but you can experiment with sharp cheddar or Gouda for a unique twist.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re a fan of bold, hearty flavors, Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a must-try. Here’s why this dish is so special:

  • Restaurant-quality meal at home: You don’t need to go out to enjoy a fine-dining experience—this dish brings the steakhouse straight to your kitchen.
  • Rich and indulgent flavors: The perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory makes every bite a delight.
  • Versatile and customizable: Whether you prefer a milder sauce or a spicier kick, this recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste.
  • Great for special occasions: Impress your guests with a stunning surf and turf dish that looks as amazing as it tastes.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Cajun Surf and Turf Experience

Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. With its rich, spicy sauce, juicy steak, and tender shrimp, this dish is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting, indulgent meals. The combination of perfectly seared steak with creamy Cajun shrimp sauce creates a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more.

 

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