Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a decadent dish that combines juicy, perfectly seared steak with a luscious, flavorful shrimp sauce. The Cajun seasoning brings a delightful kick, while the creamy sauce balances the spice with a velvety texture. Topped with tender shrimp, this dish is an indulgent restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something rich and satisfying, this recipe delivers bold flavors that impress. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the sauce.

Ingredients:

For the Steak:

• 2 ribeye steaks (1½ inches thick) (or your preferred cut)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:

• 8–10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken or seafood stock
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Sear the steaks for 3–5 minutes per side (depending on your desired doneness). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy:
   • Medium-rare: 130–135°F
   • Medium: 135–145°F
3. Remove the steaks from the skillet, tent with foil, and let rest.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Season the shrimp with ½ tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
2. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet, along with minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken or seafood stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
3. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and the remaining ½ tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add the lemon juice and stir. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Place the rested steaks on serving plates. Spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the steaks, ensuring each plate gets a generous portion of shrimp.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Ribeye is preferred for its marbling, but you can use sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the steak.

2. Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a low-spice blend.

3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To maintain thickness, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water).

4. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a homemade blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the cayenne for spice control.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Excess water can dilute the sauce.

6. What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted asparagus are excellent options. They help soak up the creamy sauce and complement the steak and shrimp.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the sauce is best fresh, you can pre-cook the shrimp and steak, then reheat and assemble just before serving. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp or steak during reheating.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp or steak.

Indulge in this luxurious Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce for a meal that’s as stunning as it is delicious!

Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce | Surf and Turf