Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce

1. Prepare the Steaks:

Season the Steaks:

1. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.

Cook the Steaks:

1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steaks to the skillet.
3. Cook the steaks for 3-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. (Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steaks.)
4. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil, while you prepare the sauce.

2. Make the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:

Cook the Shrimp:

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.

Thicken the Sauce:

1. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Return the Shrimp:

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
2. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and the sauce is creamy and well combined.

3. Serve the Steak and Sauce:

• Plate the steaks and spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the top.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce:

• Choose High-Quality Steak: Select a tender cut of steak like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon for the best results.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, increase the amount of cayenne.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch them closely to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and parsley will enhance the flavor of the sauce.

This Steak in Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The combination of juicy steak and rich, flavorful shrimp sauce is sure to be a hit, making it perfect for a special dinner or when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!