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

Sizzling Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe

Succulent steak meets zesty cajun shrimp in a sauce that promises pure culinary magic.

Creamy textures mingle with bold spices for an unforgettable dining experience.

Every bite delivers a punch of southern-style excitement.

Seafood and beef create an unexpected harmony on your plate.

Fresh ingredients dance together, turning an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress, this dish will become your new weekend favorite.

You’ll want seconds before the first plate is empty.

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

  • Speed Up Dinner: Quick and simple recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just a few easy steps.
  • Flavor Explosion: Bold Cajun seasoning delivers a spicy kick while creamy sauce balances heat with rich, velvety texture that tantalizes taste buds.
  • Wow Your Guests: Impressive surf and turf combo looks gourmet but requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for special occasions or weekend dinners.
  • Versatile Meal Magic: Adaptable recipe allows customization with different protein choices and spice levels, ensuring something delicious for everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Steak with Cajun Shrimp Sauce

Main Proteins:
  • Steak: A tender cut of beef that provides the main protein and hearty flavor for the surf and turf dish.
  • Shrimp: Delicate seafood that adds a sweet and succulent element to the creamy Cajun sauce.
Sauce and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Butter, Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Create a rich and smooth base for the Cajun sauce.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy and sharp undertone to complement the creamy sauce.
  • Cajun Seasoning: Provides a spicy and bold Cajun flavor profile to both the steak and sauce.
Aromatics and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent and savory depth to the sauce.
  • Lemon Juice: Brings a bright and fresh citrus note to balance the richness.
  • Parsley: Offers a fresh herb garnish that adds color and a light, clean flavor.
Cooking Oils:
  • Cooking Oil: Helps sear the steak and prevent sticking during cooking.

Cooking Instructions for Cajun Shrimp Steak Surf and Turf

Step 1: Sizzle Steaks with Cajun Spice

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sprinkle Cajun seasoning generously over steaks.

Sear steaks until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and reach your preferred level of doneness.

Remove steaks and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Cook Succulent Shrimp

Lower the skillet heat to medium.

Add butter and let it melt completely.

Toss in shrimp and cook quickly until they turn a delicate pink color, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Transfer shrimp to a separate plate.

Step 3: Bloom Aromatic Garlic

Drop minced garlic into the same skillet.

Stir and cook until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant and releases its enticing aroma.

Step 4: Create Flavorful Pan Sauce

Pour broth into the skillet.

Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, releasing maximum flavor.

Step 5: Build Creamy Cajun Sauce

  • Heavy cream
  • Dijon mustard
  • Cajun seasoning

Combine these ingredients in the skillet.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for one minute to develop rich flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle cheese into the sauce.

Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and luxurious texture.

Step 7: Add Bright Finishing Touches

  • Lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley
  • Cooked shrimp

Stir in these final ingredients.

Pour the creamy Cajun sauce with shrimp over the seared steaks and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Steak and Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Pat steaks dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to achieve your preferred steak doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy tenderness.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to suit your heat tolerance, starting with less and adding more gradually for personalized taste.
  • Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to prevent rubbery texture, as they continue cooking slightly after removing from heat.
  • Grate cheese finely and add gradually while stirring to create a silky, lump-free sauce that coats the dish evenly.

Variations for Steak in Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Low-Carb Zesty Version: Replace steaks with grilled chicken breasts and use cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides for a keto-friendly alternative.
  • Mediterranean Seafood Remix: Swap beef with grilled salmon, add kalamata olives and replace Cajun seasoning with za'atar for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
  • Vegetarian Protein Powerhouse: Substitute steak and shrimp with grilled portobello mushrooms and plant-based protein strips, using nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a rich, umami flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Plate: Use gluten-free Cajun seasoning, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, and serve over quinoa or zucchini noodles for a celiac-friendly option.

Serving Ideas for Surf and Turf

  • Gourmet Date Night Delight: Create a romantic dinner experience by serving this surf and turf dish with candlelight and soft background music.
  • Elegant Plating Magic: Slice the steak against the grain, arrange artfully on a white plate, and pour the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce generously over the top for a restaurant-quality presentation.
  • Sidekick Companions: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a light mixed green salad to complement the rich, spicy flavors of the steak and shrimp sauce.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay to balance the bold Cajun spices and creamy sauce.

Storage Tips for Cajun Shrimp Steak

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, separating steak and sauce to prevent soggy meat.
  • Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Shrimp might slightly change texture when thawed.
  • Warm steak and sauce separately in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small splash of broth to prevent drying. Stir gently to maintain sauce consistency.
  • Place steak and sauce in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when just warmed through to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

  • What is Cajun seasoning?

A blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne that adds bold, spicy flavor to dishes.

  • Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip work great in this recipe. Choose a cut that’s tender and about 1-inch thick.

  • Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning you use. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference.

  • What cheese works best in the sauce?

Parmesan or white cheddar cheese are excellent choices that melt smoothly and complement the Cajun flavors.

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

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


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4.6 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Succulent steak meets zesty Cajun shrimp in this mouthwatering surf and turf sensation that promises pure culinary magic. Rich, creamy sauce and perfectly seared proteins combine to deliver a restaurant-quality meal you’ll savor down to the last delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound steak (such as strip loin, rib eye, etc.)
  • 8 ounces shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 4 cloves garlic (chopped)

Sauce and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Season steaks generously with Cajun spice blend and sear in hot oil at medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to preferred doneness.
  2. Remove steaks from skillet and set aside to rest, maintaining their heat and juiciness.
  3. Reduce skillet temperature to medium and melt butter until it begins to foam.
  4. Quickly sauté shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and develop a light pink color.
  5. Transfer shrimp to a separate plate, preserving their tender texture.
  6. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until aromatic, releasing its fragrant essence.
  7. Pour chicken broth into the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up caramelized bits from the bottom, creating a rich flavor base.
  8. Introduce heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and additional Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine and bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
  9. Reduce heat and allow sauce to simmer for 60 seconds, thickening slightly.
  10. Incorporate shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  11. Finish with fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, then gently fold in cooked shrimp.
  12. Plate steaks and generously ladle the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top, creating a luxurious surf and turf presentation.

Notes

  • Customize the Cajun seasoning blend by adjusting spice levels to match personal heat preferences, ensuring a personalized flavor profile.
  • Opt for high-quality, fresh shrimp and a tender cut of steak like ribeye or sirloin to elevate the overall dish’s taste and texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise steak doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining optimal juiciness and tenderness.
  • Transform this recipe into a low-carb option by serving the steak and shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a healthier alternative.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 890 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 860 mg
  • Fat: 72 g
  • Saturated Fat: 33 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 37 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 56 g
  • Cholesterol: 320 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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