Creamy Cajun Shrimp Steak: A Bold and Flavorful Surf & Turf Feast

When you want a restaurant-worthy meal that’s bursting with bold flavors, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Steak delivers in every bite. Juicy, pan-seared steak topped with tender Cajun-spiced shrimp and drenched in a rich, creamy sauce — it’s indulgent, comforting, and irresistibly satisfying. The spicy Cajun seasoning adds the perfect kick, balanced beautifully by the velvety cream sauce. I once tried this dish with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus, and it felt like a five-star dinner right at home. Whether you’re cooking for date night or just treating yourself, this recipe transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Steak is the ultimate surf-and-turf experience — tender, juicy beef paired with spicy, succulent shrimp in a luxurious cream sauce. It’s the perfect balance of heat, richness, and savory depth. Despite its impressive presentation, it’s surprisingly easy to make and comes together in under an hour. Every element — the perfectly seared steak, the Cajun-spiced shrimp, and the luscious sauce — works in harmony for a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent weekend dinner.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak (Ribeye, Sirloin, or New York Strip) – A thick, juicy cut of beef that holds up beautifully to searing and creamy sauces.
Shrimp (Large, Peeled & Deveined) – Adds a sweet, briny contrast to the savory steak; use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp.
Cajun Seasoning – The signature flavor base of this dish; spicy, smoky, and full of Southern flair.
Butter – Used for searing and adding richness to both the steak and sauce.
Olive Oil – Helps the steak brown evenly without burning.
Heavy Cream – The foundation of the creamy Cajun sauce, creating a velvety texture.
Garlic (Minced) – Brings aromatic depth and pairs beautifully with both shrimp and steak.
Parmesan Cheese – Thickens the sauce and adds a savory, nutty finish.
Paprika – Adds color and a mild smokiness to the sauce.
Onion Powder – Enhances the overall savory flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper – To taste, balancing the heat of the Cajun spices.
Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adding freshness and color.

Directions

Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 3–4 minutes per side (for medium-rare) or until desired doneness. Remove the steak and let it rest, covered loosely with foil.

In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter and add the shrimp. Season lightly with Cajun seasoning and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium, then add minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Stir in Parmesan cheese, paprika, and onion powder. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Return the shrimp to the pan, coating them in the sauce. To serve, place the rested steak on a plate, spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp and sauce generously over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides — mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables all pair perfectly.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, cooking about 25 minutes, and resting time around 5 minutes — a total of 45 minutes from start to finish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can overcook the shrimp and steak.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Cajun Boost – Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.
Garlic Butter Version – Skip the cream and drizzle with garlic butter shrimp instead.
Blackened Steak Style – Coat the steak heavily with Cajun seasoning and sear until a flavorful crust forms.
Lemon Cajun Cream – Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
Bacon-Infused Sauce – Cook a few bacon strips first and use the drippings as the base for the sauce.
Cheesy Cajun Sauce – Stir in extra Parmesan or mozzarella for a thicker, cheesier sauce.
Surf & Turf Pasta – Slice the steak and serve everything over fettuccine for a hearty Cajun pasta.
Vegetable Add-In – Mix in sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly.
Seafood Twist – Add scallops or crab meat along with the shrimp for an even more luxurious version.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?

Ribeye or New York strip offers the best flavor and tenderness, but sirloin works too.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick — half-and-half is a good middle ground.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It varies by brand; start with less and add more to taste.

Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing?

Yes, grill it and make the sauce separately on the stove.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook just until pink and opaque — usually 1–2 minutes per side.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate it for up to a day and reheat gently before serving.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely, sauté mushrooms before adding the garlic for extra flavor.

What sides go best with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed green beans complement it beautifully.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Steak is the definition of indulgence — juicy steak, tender shrimp, and a spicy, buttery sauce that ties everything together. It’s an impressive dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests. Whether you serve it for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will make every meal feel like a celebration of flavor.

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