Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe

Sizzling Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe to Wow Guests

A culinary adventure where sizzling steak meets zesty Cajun shrimp sauce, creating an explosion of flavors that dance across your palate.

Bold spices and rich cream blend into a symphony of taste that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

Cutting through tender meat draped in a luxurious sauce that whispers promises of southern comfort.

Quick and straightforward, this recipe brings restaurant-quality magic directly to your kitchen counter.

Each bite tells a story of bold seasoning and careful technique, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Louisiana-inspired cuisine doesn’t have to be complicated—just passionate and precise.

Trust you’ll fall in love with this unexpected combination that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable feast.

What Makes Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce So Good

  • Spice Up Your Plate: Cajun seasoning transforms ordinary steaks into a flavor explosion, delivering a bold and zesty kick that dances across your taste buds.
  • Surf and Turf Perfection: This recipe brilliantly combines tender, juicy steak with succulent shrimp, creating a luxurious protein duo that feels like a restaurant-quality meal at home.
  • Quick and Impressive Cooking: From start to finish, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks who want a gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Creamy Comfort Meets Excitement: The rich, velvety sauce provides a smooth, indulgent backdrop to the spicy Cajun flavors, balancing heat with creamy comfort for a truly satisfying eating experience.

What You Need For Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

Meat:
  • Steak: Rich, flavorful protein that forms the main dish base, choose high-quality cut like ribeye or New York strip.
  • Shrimp: Succulent seafood that adds delicate texture and oceanic flavor, select fresh or high-quality frozen large shrimp.
Seasonings and Spices:
  • Cajun Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Robust blend that creates bold, spicy flavor profile for both meat and sauce.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds deep, smoky undertone to enhance overall sauce complexity.
Sauce Components:
  • Butter, Heavy Cream: Creamy base that provides luxurious texture and rich mouthfeel, use full-fat versions for best results.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that helps thicken and add depth to sauce, freshly grated recommended.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb that adds color and light herbal note to finished dish.

Steps To Make Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steaks

Pat your steaks dry and rub both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Heat a skillet over medium‑high, add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter, then lay in the steaks.

Cook until they reach your desired doneness (3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness), using a meat thermometer for precision. Transfer to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest.

Step 2: Build the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

In the same skillet over medium heat, melt a knob of butter. Add the shrimp, dust with a bit more Cajun seasoning, and cook just until they turn pink (about 2 minutes per side).

Remove the shrimp and set aside. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, sprinkle in Parmesan and smoked paprika, then stir until the sauce thickens.

Return the shrimp to the sauce and warm through.

Step 3: Plate and Garnish

Arrange each steak on a warmed plate and spoon the creamy shrimp sauce over the top. Scatter chopped parsley for color, then serve immediately alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies. Enjoy!

Smart Tips For Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Master Meat Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer to achieve precise doneness, preventing overcooking and ensuring juicy, tender steaks every time.
  • Sear for Maximum Flavor: Create a gorgeous golden-brown crust by using a hot skillet and avoiding moving the steak while searing, which helps develop rich caramelization.
  • Customize Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity by using mild or hot blends, allowing you to control the heat and match your personal spice preference.
  • Rest Your Meat: Always let steaks rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking, allowing juices to redistribute and guaranteeing a more succulent, flavorful dining experience.
  • Quick Sauce Rescue: If the cream sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to maintain perfect consistency.

How To Store And Reheat Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover steak and shrimp sauce separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, they'll stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Reheat Steak: Gently warm sliced steak in a skillet with a splash of beef broth over low heat to prevent drying. Cover the pan to retain moisture and heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
  • Reheat Sauce: Warm the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick, bringing it back to its original creamy consistency.
  • Freeze Option: Freeze the sauce and shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

What To Serve With Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Sip Zesty Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec perfectly complements the spicy Cajun flavors, cutting through the creamy sauce while enhancing the steak's rich taste.
  • Pair with Crisp Potato Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted rosemary potatoes provide a smooth, comforting base that balances the dish's intense Cajun seasonings and creamy texture.
  • Cool Down with Tangy Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a bright, peppery contrast to the heavy cream sauce, cleansing the palate between each decadent bite.
  • Elevate with Crusty Bread: Warm, buttery French bread becomes the ideal vehicle for soaking up the extra creamy Cajun shrimp sauce, ensuring no delicious flavor goes to waste.

Ways To Change Up Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Spicy Ranch Fusion: Replace heavy cream with ranch dressing for a tangy, zesty sauce that adds unexpected creaminess and southwestern flair to the classic steak and shrimp combination.
  • Mediterranean Herb Edition: Swap Cajun seasoning for a blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary, using olive oil and white wine to create a lighter, herb-infused sauce that complements the steak's richness.
  • Coconut Curry Adventure: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and add mild curry powder for an exotic, creamy sauce that brings tropical undertones to the classic steak and seafood dish.
  • Smoky Blue Cheese Remix: Incorporate crumbled blue cheese into the cream sauce and sprinkle with smoked sea salt to develop a bold, robust flavor profile that elevates the original recipe's complexity.

Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Questions Answered

  • What's the secret to perfectly seared steak?

The key is using high heat and not moving the steak while it’s cooking. This creates a beautiful caramelized crust that locks in the juices. Pat the steak dry before seasoning to ensure maximum browning.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent proper searing and affect the sauce’s consistency.

  • How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning varies in heat, but this recipe offers a moderate kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can always add more to taste.

  • What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute. Keep in mind this might slightly change the sauce’s richness.

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Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe

Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Sizzling steak meets zesty Cajun shrimp in this Southern-inspired culinary masterpiece that promises an explosion of flavor. Rich, creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned proteins create a luxurious dining experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein Ingredients:

  • 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 8 ounces/226 grams each)
  • ½ pound (225 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Sauce and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Carefully coat the steaks with a robust blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coverage on both surfaces.
  2. Warm olive oil or butter in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat until the surface shimmers with anticipation.
  3. Gently lower the seasoned steaks into the hot skillet, allowing them to sear and develop a rich, caramelized exterior for 3-5 minutes per side.
  4. Monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to achieve desired doneness: rare, medium-rare, or medium.
  5. Transfer the perfectly cooked steaks to a resting plate, tenting loosely with foil to preserve their juiciness.
  6. In the same skillet, melt additional butter and introduce the shrimp, dusting them with Cajun seasoning.
  7. Cook the shrimp swiftly, stirring until they transform to a vibrant pink and become opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  8. Remove the succulent shrimp from the pan and set aside momentarily.
  9. Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, allowing it to release its aromatic essence for about 30 seconds.
  10. Pour in heavy cream, creating a luxurious base, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  11. Incorporate Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika, whisking until the sauce reaches a velvety consistency.
  12. Reunite the shrimp with the creamy sauce, coating them thoroughly.
  13. Arrange the rested steaks on serving plates and lavishly drape with the Cajun shrimp sauce.
  14. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a final flourish of color and freshness.
  15. Serve immediately alongside complementary sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or roasted seasonal vegetables.

Notes

  • Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear and flavor development on the steaks, creating a deliciously crispy exterior.
  • Allow steaks to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and more consistent doneness.
  • Pat steaks dry with paper towels before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and prevent steaming.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity based on personal spice tolerance by using more or less of the spice blend.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream to reduce overall calories.
  • Gluten-free option: Ensure Cajun seasoning and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Meal prep tip: Cook extra shrimp and sauce to use as a topping for salads or additional protein in future meals.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 950 mg
  • Fat: 54 g
  • Saturated Fat: 28 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Cholesterol: 320 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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