Surf & turf, especially with a creamy Cajun shrimp sauce, is a fantastic and impressive meal! Here’s a common and well-regarded recipe for Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce, combining elements from popular versions:
Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce (Surf & Turf)
This recipe makes a rich and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or a decadent weeknight meal.
Yields: 2 servings Prep time: 10-15 minutes Cook time: 20-30 minutes Total time: 30-45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 2 (8-12 oz) steaks (such as ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (or a pinch of Cajun seasoning if you prefer it on the steak as well)
For the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- 8-12 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional, but adds depth)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional, but enhances flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully for steak)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak: * Take your steaks out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly. * Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. * Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. * Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet. Cook to your desired level of doneness. Here are general guidelines: * Rare: 125°F (52°C) – about 2-3 minutes per side * Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C) – about 3-4 minutes per side * Medium: 145°F (63°C) – about 4-5 minutes per side * Medium-Well: 155°F (68°C) – about 5-6 minutes per side * Well-Done: 165°F (74°C) – about 7-8 minutes per side * Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a cutting board or plate. Tent loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
2. Make the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce: * In the same skillet (don’t clean it, those browned bits are flavor!), reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and the remaining olive oil (if using). * If using, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. * Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. * Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet along with the Cajun seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside. (They will go back into the sauce later). * Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. * Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. * Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. * Add the lemon juice and stir. * Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to coat them in the sauce. * Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir in most of the chopped fresh parsley.
3. Serve: * Slice the rested steaks against the grain, if desired. * Plate the steaks and generously spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top. * Garnish with the remaining fresh chopped parsley. * Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad.
Enjoy your delicious Surf & Turf!