Sizzling Cajun Shrimp & Steak Recipe: A Zesty Dinner Delight

Spicy aromas of cajun shrimp & steak waft through my kitchen, promising an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Seared beef and plump shellfish dance together on a sizzling cast-iron skillet.

Robust Cajun seasoning brings bold, fiery notes that awaken every taste bud.

Southern cooking traditions inspire this knockout combo of protein and zesty spices.

Marinating ingredients intensifies the deep, complex flavors characteristic of Louisiana cuisine.

Charred edges and succulent centers make this dish irresistibly tempting.

One bite transports you straight to a New Orleans backyard cookout, where every morsel tells a delicious story.

Cajun Shrimp And Steak That Brings Big Energy

• Savor Speed: Whips up in just 15-20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Spice Master: Delivers bold Cajun flavors that pack a punch, offering a zesty and exciting taste experience that transforms ordinary steak and shrimp into a culinary adventure.
• Versatile Delight: Easily customizable for different preferences – adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or choose various side dishes to match your mood and dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser Potential: Works brilliantly for dinner parties, date nights, or family meals, impressing guests with its professional-looking presentation and complex flavor profile without requiring professional cooking skills.

What Combines in Cajun Shrimp & Steak

• Steak: Rich, tender meat for a hearty main course. Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for best results.
• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that adds delicate flavor. Fresh or frozen will work well, peeled and deveined.

• Cajun Seasoning: Spicy blend that gives authentic Southern flavor. Look for a pre-mixed version or make your own.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall taste and balancing spices.

• Garlic: Adds deep, pungent flavor to protein. Fresh minced garlic provides the best taste.
• Parsley: Bright green herb for garnish and fresh finish.

• Olive Oil: Helps distribute seasonings and prevents sticking. Use extra virgin for best flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds bright, tangy notes and helps tenderize shrimp.

• Smoked Paprika: Provides smoky depth to the dish. Optional but recommended.

• Lemon Wedges: Fresh citrus for squeezing over dish.

• Rice, Garlic Bread, Roasted Vegetables: Complementary sides to complete the meal.

Pan Instructions for Cajun Shrimp & Steak

Step 1: Prep the Protein

Grab your steak strips and shrimp.

• Olive oil
• Cajun seasoning
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Pepper
• Lemon juice (for shrimp)
• Smoked paprika (for shrimp)

Step 2: Sizzle the Steak

Fire up a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Dance the steak strips across the hot surface, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach your perfect level of doneness.

Transfer the beautifully caramelized meat to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Dance the Shrimp

Using the same sizzling skillet, add a splash more olive oil if needed.

Slide the seasoned shrimp into the pan, letting them cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous pink and look perfectly opaque.

Step 4: Create a Flavor Explosion

Bring your steak and shrimp together on a stunning platter.

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and nestle some bright lemon wedges around the edges for a pop of color and extra zing.

Step 5: Complete the Feast

Round out your meal with some tasty companions like steamed rice, crispy garlic bread, or roasted vegetables that complement the bold Cajun flavors.

Cajun Surf & Turf Essentials

• Create your own Cajun blend by mixing paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme for a more personalized and robust flavor profile.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure steak reaches your preferred doneness – 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium without overcooking.
• Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly to maintain tender texture, avoiding prolonged heating that makes them tough and chewy.
• Let steak and shrimp marinate in seasonings for 15-30 minutes before cooking to enhance taste penetration and develop deeper Cajun notes.
• Pair this dish with cooling sides like cucumber salad or creamy coleslaw to complement the spicy Cajun seasoning and provide palate relief.

Steak and Shrimp That Warm Up Just Right

• Store leftover Cajun shrimp and steak in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them separate to maintain texture and prevent cross-contamination.
• Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup and potential bacterial growth.
• Enjoy refrigerated leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and quality, ensuring peak taste and food safety.
• Warm the steak and shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out, until heated through.

Zesty Matches For Shrimp And Steak

Spice Up Your Sips: Bold Beverage Pairings

• Fire-Roasted Red Wine: Grab a robust Zinfandel or Syrah to match the Cajun spice intensity, complementing the steak's rich flavor and balancing the shrimp's zesty seasoning.
• Crisp Beer Companion: Choose a cold craft pale ale or amber lager that cuts through the dish's heat while refreshing your palate with its hoppy, malty undertones.
• Zesty Cocktail Kick: Mix a classic margarita or spicy michelada to echo the Cajun seasoning's vibrant profile, enhancing the meal's bold southwestern spirit.
• Citrus-Infused Cocktail: Blend a fresh lime mojito or gin-based citrus cocktail to brighten the seafood's flavor and provide a cooling counterpoint to the spicy proteins.

Shrimp Steak Cajun Twists

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Option: Replace traditional rice with riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrates and add more vegetables to the dish.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free Cajun seasoning and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute steak and shrimp with grilled portobello mushrooms and plant-based shrimp alternatives for a meat-free version.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Customize the heat by using mild Cajun seasoning for less spice or adding extra cayenne pepper for more intense flavor for heat lovers.

FAQs

• What makes Cajun seasoning unique?

Cajun seasoning is a bold spice blend originating from Louisiana, typically combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. It delivers a robust, spicy flavor profile that adds depth to both steak and shrimp.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture during cooking. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.

• How do I know when the steak is cooked to my preferred doneness?

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done. Alternatively, check the meat’s firmness by pressing it with tongs or your finger.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning used. If you prefer less heat, use a mild Cajun blend or reduce the amount of seasoning. You can always adjust to suit your taste preferences.

Cajun Shrimp & Steak Recipe

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4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling Cajun shrimp & steak blends bold Louisiana spices with succulent proteins for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Hearty flavors dance across your palate, promising a taste experience that transports diners straight to New Orleans’ vibrant kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 lb (454 grams) steak (ribeye, sirloin, or your favorite cut), cut into strips
• 1 lb (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasonings and Spices:

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Optional: steamed rice, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables

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Instructions

1. Prepare Steak Marinade: Combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Thoroughly coat steak strips, ensuring even distribution of seasonings.
2. Sear Steak: Preheat skillet or grill pan to medium-high temperature. Arrange marinated steak strips, cooking approximately 3-4 minutes per side until achieving desired doneness. Transfer cooked steak to a holding plate.
3. Prepare Shrimp Marinade: Whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Thoroughly coat shrimp with marinade.
4. Cook Shrimp: Utilize the same skillet, adding additional olive oil if necessary. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they transform to a vibrant pink and become translucent.
5. Final Presentation: Arrange cooked steak and shrimp on a serving platter or individual plates. Enhance visual appeal by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and accompanying lemon wedges.
6. Complementary Accompaniments: Recommend serving with steamed rice, crusty garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables to complete the culinary experience.

Notes

• Adjust Cajun seasoning levels based on personal heat tolerance, starting with less and gradually adding more for desired spiciness.
• Ensure steak and shrimp are at room temperature before cooking to promote even heating and prevent tough textures.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for superior heat distribution and better caramelization of meat and seafood.
• Keep protein cooking times precise to avoid overcooking, which can result in rubbery shrimp and tough steak.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg