Surf and turf dishes are a delightful combination of land and sea, and this recipe for Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce brings that luxurious experience right to your kitchen. With the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, tender steak, and a rich shrimp cream sauce, this dish is perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight meal.
Whether you’re cooking to impress or treating yourself, this recipe offers the perfect balance of spice, richness, and texture. If you’re looking to explore more delicious protein-packed meals, you might enjoy this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice, which pairs beautifully with rich, creamy flavors in one-pan dishes.
What Makes This Surf and Turf Dish Special?
The combination of perfectly seared steak with a creamy, spiced Cajun shrimp sauce offers the best of both worlds. It’s not just the combination of flavors that makes this dish stand out, but also its versatility. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, the sauce can be adjusted for spice, making this recipe customizable for any palate.
Cajun seasoning is the star ingredient here, and its blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and thyme adds both heat and depth. Curious about the origins and use of Cajun seasoning? Learn more about it here: Cajun seasoning and its uses.
Ingredients for Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce
For the Steak:
- 1 lb steak (striploin, ribeye, or filet mignon)
- Cajun seasoning to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (for searing)
For the Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Steak
- Season the steak generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Set the steak aside to rest, allowing the juices to redistribute.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
- Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth or white wine, scraping up the browned bits.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese.
4. Finish and Serve
- Add the shrimp back to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Serve the Cajun shrimp sauce over the rested steak and enjoy!
Customizations and Variations
- Alternative Proteins: You can easily substitute the steak for chicken breast or pork chops to fit your preferences.
- Seafood Variations: Try using scallops or lobster for an elevated twist on the surf and turf theme.
- Lighter Version: Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream substitute to lighten the dish.
Looking for another take on a delicious surf and turf meal? Check out this Cheese Steak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a unique combination of cheesy richness and hearty meat flavors: Cheese Steak Tortellini.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair the steak in creamy Cajun shrimp sauce with:
- Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the sauce.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or grilled asparagus for a crunchy vegetable contrast.
- Wine Pairings: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess of the sauce. For a red wine, a light Pinot Noir pairs nicely with both the steak and shrimp.
For more wine pairing suggestions for this dish, check out wine pairings for surf and turf.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 650-700 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 55g (26g saturated fat)
- Sodium: 500-600mg
FAQs About Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce
What is surf and turf?
Surf and turf refers to a dish that combines seafood (surf) and steak or another meat (turf), usually in a single serving.
Can I substitute the shrimp for other seafood?
Yes, scallops, lobster, or crab are great substitutes for shrimp in this dish.
How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
Cajun seasoning typically has a moderate level of heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less seasoning based on your preference.
This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce recipe is the perfect surf and turf dish, offering a balance of bold flavors, creamy textures, and tender proteins. If you’re looking for more recipes to impress, try this delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for another indulgent meal that your family will love!