Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of land and sea in one dish.
• Perfectly seasoned steak paired with a creamy, spicy shrimp sauce.
• Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
• A restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.
• Customizable spice level for your preferred heat.

Ingredients

For the steak:

• 2 sirloin or ribeye steaks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cajun shrimp sauce:

• 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the steaks:
   Rub the steaks with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side or until your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and let them rest.
2. Cook the shrimp:
   In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Cajun sauce:
   Lower the heat and melt butter in the skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
   Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet to warm through.
4. Assemble the dish:
   Plate the steaks and spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce generously over them. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Variations

• Swap shrimp with scallops or lobster tails for an even more luxurious dish.
• Adjust the heat by adding more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use a different cut of steak, such as filet mignon or New York strip, for variety.
• Substitute chicken broth with seafood stock for an extra boost of flavor.
• Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a touch of acidity.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

2. What’s the best way to check steak doneness?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.

4. What sides pair well with this dish?

Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crisp green salad complement it beautifully.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

6. Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Grill the steaks to your preferred doneness and follow the rest of the recipe as written.

7. Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

Cajun seasoning has a mild to moderate heat level. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

8. Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, prepare the sauce and reheat it gently when ready to serve. Add the shrimp just before serving to avoid overcooking.

9. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.

10. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth are gluten-free, and the recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Conclusion

Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a show-stopping dish that brings together the best of surf and turf in an indulgent, flavorful way. Whether for a date night or a special dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked steak with your favorite side dishes for a memorable meal.