There’s nothing quite like a meal that feels special and celebratory, and this Cajun Steak & Shrimp is exactly that. It’s a vibrant, intensely flavorful dish that combines the best of both land and sea. Juicy ribeye steak and plump shrimp are seasoned with a smoky, spicy Cajun blend, seared to perfection, and served together for a truly extraordinary meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels elegant and decadent, but it’s surprisingly easy to make right in your own kitchen.

I first made this recipe for a special occasion, and it was an instant hit. The combination of flavors and textures is simply incredible. The tender, savory steak, the juicy, spicy shrimp, and a hint of lemon all come together to create a symphony of flavors. This recipe is a testament to the fact that you can create something truly magnificent with a little bit of time and a lot of love.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of rich, savory steak and vibrant, spicy shrimp. The Cajun seasoning is the star of the show—it’s a perfect blend of paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper that gives the steak and shrimp a beautiful, smoky crust. The process of searing the steak first and then cooking the shrimp in the same pan ensures that all the flavors are melded together. It’s a complete meal that feels special and impressive, but it’s simple enough for a weeknight.

Ingredients

For the Cajun Steak:

• 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 8 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cajun Shrimp:

• ½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Swaps and Notes

• Steak: Ribeye or sirloin steaks are great choices for this recipe because they are flavorful and cook quickly. You can also use a different cut of steak like flank steak or filet mignon.
• Shrimp: Use large, raw shrimp for the best results. You can buy them already peeled and deveined to save time.
• Cajun Seasoning: The Cajun seasoning is key to this recipe. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is used in both the steak and shrimp, which adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds a lovely, bright tang that cuts through the richness of the steak and the spice of the shrimp.

How to Make Cajun Steak & Shrimp

1. Prep the Steak: Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steaks and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
3. Prep the Shrimp: While the steaks are resting, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season them with the Cajun seasoning.
4. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
5. Serve: Slice the rested steak and serve it on a platter with the Cajun shrimp.

Tips for Success

• Pat the Steak Dry: Patting the steaks dry before you season them is important. This helps the seasoning stick and gives you a better sear.
• Don’t Overcook: The steak and shrimp cook very quickly. Don’t overcook them, or they will become tough and rubbery.
• Let the Steak Rest: Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after you take it out of the skillet. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes it even more tender.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Cajun surf and turf is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. For other great Southern-inspired dishes, you could serve it with a bowl of my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo or with my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers are delicious! Store the steak and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm them in a skillet until heated through.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of easy, delicious, and one-pan meals, you’ll want to check out some of these other favorites:

• My Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a fantastic one-pan dinner.
• If you need to feed a crowd fast, these Sheet Pan Quesadillas are a lifesaver.
• For a lazy Sunday, these Easy Turkey Wings are a must-try.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Steak & Shrimp is a recipe that proves a home-cooked meal can be a truly gourmet experience. It’s a simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying dish that is perfect for a special dinner. I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your home.

If you make this dish, I’d love to hear about it! What’s your favorite way to enjoy a good steak? Let me know in the comments below.