Description
Steak with Cajun Shrimp Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent dish combining tender New York Strip steak and a creamy, flavorful Cajun shrimp sauce. Perfectly seared steak meets shrimp simmered in a rich blend of butter, garlic, and Cajun spices, creating a meal that’s indulgent yet easy to prepare. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknights or impressing guests with restaurant-quality flair.
1 lb New York Strip steak
3 tbsp butter, divided
24 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tsp minced garlic
¼ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Directions:
1. Sear steaks in butter until browned and cooked to your liking. Set aside.
2. In the same pan, cook shrimp in butter until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté garlic, add broth, cream, Dijon, and Cajun seasoning. Simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, and parsley. Return shrimp to the sauce.
5. Serve sauce over steak and garnish with parsley.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: ~450 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the New York Strip steak completely dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Sear the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and let it rest.
2. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the steak.
3. Build the Sauce: Add the final tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the grated Parmesan until melted. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce, stirring to coat and warm through.
5. Serve: Slice the rested steak against the grain. Plate the steak slices and spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce generously over the top. Garnish with extra parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, garlic parmesan pasta, or a simple mound of fluffy white rice. For a lighter option, roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad provide a perfect contrast to the indulgent main course.
How-to Summary
Sear and rest a seasoned steak. In the same pan, cook shrimp and set aside. Build a sauce with garlic, broth, cream, mustard, and Cajun seasoning. Finish with Parmesan, lemon, and parsley, then add the shrimp back. Serve the creamy sauce over the sliced steak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Absolutely. Ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the Cajun seasoning to 2 teaspoons or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less thick and rich. Full-fat coconut milk is a good dairy-free alternative.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store steak and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent separation.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce (without the shrimp) 1 day ahead. Reheat it gently and add the cooked shrimp just before serving to keep them tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Steak: A wet surface prevents a proper, flavorful sear. Always pat steak dry.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure they sear instead of steam.
- Boiling the Sauce: After adding the cream, maintain a gentle simmer. A rolling boil can cause the sauce to break or curdle.
- Skipping the Rest: Letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy result.
Conclusion
This Steak with Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a masterclass in creating a luxurious, restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen with minimal time and effort. The combination of perfectly cooked steak and a creamy, spiced sauce filled with plump shrimp is truly irresistible. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently deliver a stunning dish that is sure to become a favorite for both busy weeknights and special occasions.