Few dishes embody indulgence like surf and turf—the ultimate combination of rich, juicy steak and succulent seafood. This pairing has been a staple of fine dining for decades, offering the best of both worlds: the hearty, umami-packed goodness of a perfectly seared steak and the delicate, buttery sweetness of shrimp, all brought together in a luxuriously creamy Cajun sauce.
If you’ve ever dined at a high-end steakhouse or seafood restaurant, you’ve likely encountered surf and turf dishes. While they may seem extravagant, making this restaurant-quality meal at home is easier than you think.
Today, we’re diving into how to make Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce, a recipe that combines bold Southern-inspired spices with tender, juicy protein. This dish is perfect for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or when you simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- The Perfect Steak – We use ribeye or filet mignon, both known for their tenderness and deep beefy flavor. A good sear in a cast-iron skillet creates a caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce – This sauce is the star of the dish! It’s bold, slightly spicy, and incredibly rich, made with Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter.
- Easy Yet Luxurious – Despite its fancy appearance, this meal is incredibly easy to prepare. With a few high-quality ingredients and the right techniques, you can impress anyone with minimal effort.
A Brief History of Surf and Turf
Surf and turf first gained popularity in North America in the mid-20th century, especially in high-end restaurants that wanted to offer a mix of luxury and comfort. It became a symbol of indulgence—why choose between steak and seafood when you can have both?
The combination of Cajun flavors with steak and shrimp, however, is a Southern twist on the classic. Cajun cuisine originates from Louisiana, where bold spices, creamy sauces, and rich seafood dishes are a way of life. This recipe blends the best of surf and turf with spicy, smoky, and creamy elements to create a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye steaks (or filet mignon, about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:
- ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
- Bring the steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the steak generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter and let it melt.
- Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side (for medium-rare). If you prefer a different doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly:
- Rare: 120-125°F (cool red center)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (warm red center)
- Medium: 140-145°F (pink center)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (slightly pink center)
- Well-done: 160°F+ (fully cooked, no pink)
- In the last minute of cooking, add garlic and an extra tablespoon of butter to the pan, basting the steak with the melted butter for extra flavor.
- Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add shrimp and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly crispy.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
- Add lemon juice and stir in fresh parsley.
Step 3: Assembling the Dish
- Place the rested steak on a plate.
- Spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the steak, letting the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
What to Serve With This Dish?
Since this dish is rich and decadent, it pairs well with light, complementary sides like:
- Garlic mashed potatoes – to soak up the delicious sauce
- Roasted asparagus – adds a fresh, slightly crispy contrast
- Cajun rice – for an extra kick of spice
- Crispy garlic bread – perfect for sopping up every last drop of the sauce
Expert Tips for the Best Surf and Turf
✔ Use High-Quality Steak – Opt for ribeye for its marbling or filet mignon for its tenderness.
✔ Get a Perfect Sear – A hot pan is crucial for a golden-brown crust on your steak. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
✔ Adjust Spice Levels – If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the cayenne pepper.
✔ Let the Steak Rest – Always let your steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Conclusion
This Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for date nights, special occasions, or when you simply want to enjoy a gourmet meal at home. The juicy, perfectly seared steak, paired with the spicy, creamy shrimp sauce, makes for an unforgettable surf and turf experience.
Why spend $50+ at a steakhouse when you can make this luxurious meal right in your own kitchen? Try it today and let us know how it turns out!
Would you like wine pairing suggestions for this dish?