Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe

Sizzling Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe – A Bold Delight

My kitchen adventures recently discovered a mouthwatering steak in creamy cajun shrimp sauce that blends rich coastal flavors with hearty protein.

Spicy seasonings dance across tender meat, creating a remarkable culinary experience.

Coastal Louisiana traditions inspire this bold dish with unexpected depth and complexity.

Succulent shrimp nestle alongside perfectly seared beef, promising a meal that surprises and delights.

Intense cajun spices weave through the creamy sauce, delivering a symphony of tastes that awaken every sense.

Complex yet approachable, this recipe offers restaurant-quality excitement right at your dining table.

Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Excellence

  • Elevate Protein Power: Combine tender steak with succulent shrimp for a protein-packed meal that satisfies serious hunger and delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home.
  • Master One-Skillet Magic: Prepare an entire gourmet dinner using just one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience for busy home cooks looking for quick yet impressive meals.
  • Spice Up Your Culinary Skills: Learn Cajun cooking techniques with this foolproof recipe that introduces bold, zesty seasonings while teaching simple sauce-making methods perfect for intermediate home chefs.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust spice levels and cooking times to match personal preferences, making this dish adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs without compromising deliciousness.

Ingredients Required for Steak in Cajun Sauce

For the Proteins:
  • Steaks: Premium cuts of beef perfect for a hearty and flavorful main dish.
  • Shrimp: Tender seafood that adds a delightful oceanic touch to the meal.
For the Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic spices that enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
  • Paprika: Adds a warm, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful color to the dish.
  • Cajun Seasoning: Provides a spicy and robust Louisiana-style kick to the shrimp.
  • Onion Powder: Offers a subtle, concentrated onion flavor without added moisture.
For the Sauce and Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: Essential fats for cooking and creating a rich, smooth sauce.
  • Beef Broth: Adds depth and savory complexity to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, velvety texture for the Cajun sauce.
  • Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic base for the sauce.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy note to balance the creamy sauce.
  • Fresh Parsley: Offers a fresh, herbal garnish for visual appeal and light flavor.

How to Prepare Steak in Cajun Shrimp Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Protein

Heat a skillet over medium-high flame. Generously coat the steaks with a blend of salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika.

Drizzle olive oil into the pan. Sear the steaks, creating a golden-brown crust.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare finish. Transfer steaks to a resting plate to seal in the juices.

Step 2: Quickly Cook the Seafood

In the same sizzling skillet, drop in a pat of butter. Toss in the succulent shrimp with:
  • Cajun spice blend
  • Minced garlic
  • Pinch of salt

Cook the shrimp until they turn vibrant pink and curl slightly, about 2 minutes per side.

Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Craft the Luxurious Sauce

Lower the heat and add another knob of butter.

Swirl in minced garlic and let it become fragrant. Pour in rich beef broth, allowing it to reduce and concentrate flavors.

Blend in:
  • Heavy cream
  • Onion powder
  • Additional paprika
  • Fresh lemon juice

Simmer the sauce until it thickens and becomes silky smooth, approximately 3 minutes.

Step 4: Bring the Dish Together

Return the plump shrimp to the creamy sauce, stirring gently to coat.

Cascade the spicy seafood sauce over the resting steaks. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve immediately while everything is piping hot and full of flavor.

Key Tips for Steak in Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Pat steaks dry before seasoning to ensure a golden-brown crust and maximum flavor development.
  • Simmer sauce slowly and stir constantly to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Cook shrimp just until pink to maintain tenderness and prevent rubbery, overcooked results.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the rich, creamy Cajun sauce and cut through the heaviness.
  • Let steaks rest after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring a juicy and tender final dish.

Flavor Twists on Steak in Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Spicy Mediterranean Fusion: Replace Cajun seasoning with za'atar and sumac, add crumbled feta cheese over the steak, and use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for the sauce.
  • Smoky Southwestern Style: Swap Cajun seasoning for chipotle powder, mix in roasted corn kernels, and finish the sauce with a splash of tequila for deeper flavor complexity.
  • Coconut Caribbean Remix: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, add fresh lime zest, use jerk seasoning instead of Cajun spice, and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.
  • Asian Inspired Crossover: Replace Cajun seasoning with ginger and five-spice powder, use mirin in the sauce, add sliced green onions, and drizzle sesame oil just before serving.

Best Pairings with Steak in Cajun Shrimp Sauce

  • Flavor Fusion Pairing: Zinfandel red wine perfectly complements the bold Cajun spices and rich creamy sauce, balancing the dish's intense flavors with its fruity and peppery notes.
  • Herbal Freshness Companion: Crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the heavy cream sauce, providing a light, zesty counterpoint to the rich steak and shrimp.
  • Starch Sidekick: Garlic roasted sweet potatoes enhance the Cajun seasoning while offering a subtle sweetness that matches the dish's spicy and creamy profile.
  • Temperature Contrast: Chilled cucumber and dill salad provides a cool, refreshing element that neutralizes the warmth of the Cajun spices and adds a bright, clean finish to each bite.

Proper Storage for Cajun Shrimp Steak Dish

  • Store leftover steak and shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate the steak and shrimp to prevent overcooking when reheating.
  • Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Place steak and shrimp on a microwave-safe plate. Add a splash of beef broth to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

  • What is the key to perfectly seared steaks?

The secret is using a hot skillet and not moving the steaks while cooking. This creates a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in the meat’s juices and flavor.

  • How spicy is the Cajun sauce?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less heat, use a mild blend or reduce the amount. You can always adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp sear properly and prevents them from becoming watery in the sauce.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe

Steak In Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 12 reviews

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

Description

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Steak blends southern spice with rich, velvety sauce in one irresistible dish. Sizzling protein and zesty seafood create a restaurant-quality meal that will transport diners straight to Louisiana’s culinary heart.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
  • 200 grams (7 ounces) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet to medium-high temperature with a light coating of olive oil, creating an ideal searing environment for the steaks.
  2. Season the steaks generously with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring even coverage across the entire surface.
  3. Carefully place steaks in the hot skillet, allowing them to develop a rich, caramelized crust for 3-4 minutes on each side, achieving a perfect medium-rare doneness.
  4. Transfer steaks to a resting plate, letting them relax and redistribute internal juices while preparing the next components.
  5. In the same skillet, melt butter and introduce shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices and minced garlic, cooking quickly until they turn vibrant pink and become translucent.
  6. Remove shrimp and set aside, maintaining their delicate texture and preventing overcooking.
  7. Reduce skillet heat and add remaining butter, gently sautéing additional garlic to release its aromatic essence.
  8. Pour beef broth into the skillet, allowing it to reduce and concentrate the flavor profile.
  9. Incorporate heavy cream, onion powder, paprika, and a bright splash of lemon juice, creating a luxurious, velvety sauce.
  10. Simmer the sauce for approximately 3 minutes, watching it thicken and develop a rich, cohesive consistency.
  11. Reintroduce the cooked shrimp to the sauce, gently coating them and warming through.
  12. Cascade the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the rested steaks, ensuring complete coverage.
  13. Garnish with fresh, chopped parsley for a final touch of color and herbal brightness.
  14. Serve immediately, presenting a harmonious blend of perfectly cooked steak and decadent seafood sauce.

Notes

  • Control the heat precisely to avoid overcooking the steak, ensuring a perfect medium-rare texture with a beautiful golden-brown crust.
  • Choose high-quality, well-marbled cuts like ribeye or New York strip for maximum flavor and tenderness in your dish.
  • Use fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and sweetness, preferably wild-caught for more robust taste and sustainable seafood practices.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity based on personal spice tolerance, starting with less and adding more gradually to balance flavors without overwhelming the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 690 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 55 g
  • Saturated Fat: 28 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Cholesterol: 215 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star