Steak with Cajun Shrimp Sauce

This hearty steak in creamy Cajun shrimp sauce combines the best of surf and turf in one luxurious dish. The tender steak pairs perfectly with plump shrimp swimming in a rich, spicy cream sauce that will transport your taste buds straight to Louisiana.

I first made this recipe when my in-laws visited unexpectedly one evening. It came together so quickly with ingredients I already had, and they were convinced I had spent hours preparing it. Now it's our go-to special occasion meal that feels indulgent without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Ingredients

• Steak: Ribeye or sirloin for their perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. Look for well-marbled cuts that are at least 1-inch thick.
• Shrimp: Large or jumbo size works best as they stand up better to the sauce. Always choose fresh over frozen when possible.
• Cajun seasoning: The heart of this dish providing the signature flavor. Quality matters here so invest in a good blend.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious base for the sauce. Full-fat version works best for proper thickening.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce without making it too heavy. Use low-sodium to control salt levels.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts better and provides more authentic flavor than pre-packaged options.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves offer more aromatic intensity than jarred versions. Look for firm bulbs with tight skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Steak:

Generously rub Cajun seasoning all over both sides of your steak. Press the spices firmly into the meat to ensure they adhere well. Allow the steak to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes which helps the meat cook more evenly and absorb the flavors deeply.

Sear to Perfection:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Place your seasoned steak carefully in the hot pan and let it sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a beautiful crust. Flip only once and cook for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Use tongs rather than a fork to prevent juices from escaping. Remove the steak and let it rest on a cutting board.

Create Flavor Base:

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet, capturing all those flavorful steak bits. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for exactly one minute until fragrant but not browned. This brief cooking releases the garlic oils without developing bitterness.

Cook the Shrimp:

Add shrimp to the garlic butter in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes, flip each one, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they curl into a C-shape and turn pink. Be vigilant as overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough.

Develop the Sauce:

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These caramelized bits are concentrated flavor bombs. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer not a boil which could cause the cream to separate.

Enrich and Thicken:

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese gradually while continuously stirring. This prevents clumping and ensures smooth incorporation. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon. Season with salt and pepper, remembering that the Cajun seasoning and cheese already contain salt.

Finish the Dish:

Slice the rested steak against the grain into 1/4-inch strips. This cuts through the muscle fibers, ensuring tender bites. Return the sliced steak to the skillet, gently folding it into the sauce to warm through without further cooking. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for color and brightness.

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The Cajun seasoning is truly the soul of this dish. I discovered this when making it for my Louisiana-born neighbor who immediately recognized the authentic flavor profile. He shared that his grandmother would add a pinch of file powder to her Cajun dishes which inspired me to try it in this recipe. That small addition took the flavor to an entirely new level of authenticity.

Make-Ahead Options

This recipe works beautifully for meal prep situations. You can season the steak up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator which actually enhances flavor development. The sauce can be made separately and refrigerated for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently while cooking fresh steak and shrimp. This approach makes elegant entertaining stress-free.

Perfect Pairings

This rich dish calls for simple accompaniments that balance its decadence. Crusty French bread is ideal for soaking up the luscious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving with roasted asparagus or a bright arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness beautifully. For wine enthusiasts, a medium-bodied Pinot Noir or unoaked Chardonnay complements without overwhelming the delicate shrimp flavors.

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Customize Your Heat Level

The beauty of Cajun cuisine lies in its adaptability to personal spice preferences. For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half and add more gradually to taste. Heat lovers can amp up the spiciness by adding a diced jalapeño when sautéing the garlic or incorporating a few dashes of hot sauce into the finished sauce. Remember that cream tempers heat, so the final dish will be less spicy than the seasoning might suggest.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce breaks or appears curdled, remove from heat immediately and whisk in a tablespoon of cold heavy cream to re-emulsify. For sauce that's too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with equal parts cold water and stir into the simmering sauce. If your sauce thickens too much upon standing, thin with a splash of warm chicken broth while reheating. Always taste before serving as seasoning needs may change during cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the steak is cooked perfectly?

For the perfect steak, sear it over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; 130°F to 135°F is ideal.

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, ribeye and sirloin are recommended, but you can use other cuts like filet mignon or New York strip for this dish.

→ What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?

If you don't have Cajun seasoning, try a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Shrimp cook quickly, so sauté them for just 3–4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque to avoid overcooking.