1. Prepare and Cook the Steaks:
Season the Steaks:
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
Cook the Steaks:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steaks to the skillet.
- 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.)
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil, while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Creamy Shrimp:
Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- 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.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning (if using), stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Finish the Sauce:
- Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and the shrimp are heated through.
3. Serve the Steak and Creamy Shrimp:
- Plate the rested steaks and spoon the creamy shrimp sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Steak and Creamy Shrimp:
- Choose the Right Steak: Ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip are all excellent choices for this dish.
- Cooking the Steak: For a juicy steak, let it rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Shrimp Cooking: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, you can add a splash more broth or cream.
This Steak and Creamy Shrimp recipe is a luxurious dish that’s perfect for a date night or special occasion. The combination of tender steak and rich, flavorful shrimp in a creamy sauce is sure to impress. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!