Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce (Surf and Turf Recipe)

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Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce (Surf and Turf Recipe)

A Luxurious Combination of Juicy Steak and Spicy Creamy Shrimp!

This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is the ultimate surf and turf experience—tender, seared steak topped with succulent shrimp coated in a spicy, creamy Cajun sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend indulgence, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your dinner table.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 lb each)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:

  • ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Steaks

  1. Season the steaks: Generously sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your desired doneness (130°F / 54°C for medium-rare).
  3. Butter-baste: In the final minute, add butter and spoon it over the steaks for extra richness. Remove steaks from skillet and let them rest.

Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  1. Season shrimp: Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning until fully coated.
  2. Cook shrimp: In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce: Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Finish the sauce: Return shrimp to the skillet. Stir in lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and add red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Plate: Place steak on serving plates.
  2. Top: Spoon generous amounts of creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over each steak.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Surf and Turf

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect steak doneness, aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Reduce Cajun seasoning or omit red pepper flakes for a milder version. Add more if you love heat.
  • Pairing Ideas: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Why This Recipe Works

This indulgent surf and turf dinner combines the smoky spice of Cajun shrimp with the buttery tenderness of pan-seared steak. The creamy sauce ties it all together into a restaurant-style entrée that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Serving Suggestions

Although optional, pairing this dish with your favorite sides and drinks takes it to another level:

  • Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or buttery rice pilaf.
  • Drinks: For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon.

 

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