- Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel.
- Rub with olive oil, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning mix.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter, then sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side (medium-rare) or until desired doneness.
- Remove from heat, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp and remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Stir in minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and parsley, cooking for 1 minute.
- Add lemon juice and mix well.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
- Plate the steak and shrimp, then drizzle with garlic butter sauce.
- Serve with roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or corn on the cob.
- Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for freshness.
Serving and Storage Tips
🔥 Best served fresh, hot off the skillet!
🔥 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat steak gently in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes.
🔥 Reheat shrimp quickly in a pan for 1–2 minutes—avoid overcooking.
Variants
- Cajun Surf & Turf Pasta – Serve shrimp and steak over fettuccine Alfredo or creamy Cajun pasta.
- Cajun Steak & Shrimp Tacos – Slice steak, chop shrimp, and serve in warm tortillas with slaw and sauce.
- Grilled Cajun Steak & Shrimp Skewers – Thread steak and shrimp onto skewers for a BBQ twist.
- Creamy Cajun Butter Sauce – Stir in ½ cup heavy cream to the butter sauce for a richer finish.
- Low-Carb Version – Serve with cauliflower mash or sautéed greens instead of potatoes.
FAQ
1. What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?
✔ Ribeye (juicy and marbled)
✔ NY Strip (leaner but flavorful)
✔ Filet Mignon (tender and luxurious)
2. Can I grill the steak and shrimp instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Grill the steak at 450°F (232°C) for 4–5 minutes per side, and shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. How do I make the steak extra juicy?
✔ Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
✔ Use a meat thermometer:
- Medium-Rare: 130–135°F
- Medium: 135–145°F
- Medium-Well: 145–155°F
4. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
5. What sides go well with this dish?
🔥 Garlic mashed potatoes
🔥 Cajun rice or dirty rice
🔥 Grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts
🔥 Corn on the cob with butter
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Feast is bold, spicy, and packed with mouthwatering flavors—perfect for a special dinner or weekend treat. Whether you’re a fan of surf and turf or Cajun spice, this meal will leave you completely satisfied!