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🌟 Introduction

This dish is a celebration of bold Southern flavors with a luxurious creamy finish. Tender, juicy steak and plump Cajun-spiced shrimp come together in a garlic Parmesan cream sauce that wraps everything in indulgent richness. It’s a surf-and-turf fusion with a Cajun kick – perfect over mashed potatoes, pasta, or served with a warm crusty bread.

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🛒 Ingredients

🔥 For the Cajun Seasoning:

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

🍤 For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (from above)

🥩 For the Steak:

• 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak (1-inch thick), room temp
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

🍶 For the Creamy Dream Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the steak. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side (for medium-rare), depending on thickness.
4. In the last minute of cooking, add 1 tbsp butter, garlic cloves, and herbs. Baste the steak with the melted butter.
5. Remove the steak and rest it on a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Cajun Shrimp

1. Toss shrimp with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
2. In the same skillet (wipe out excess burnt bits if needed), add 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dream Sauce

1. Lower heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter to the pan.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, and chili flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened (2–3 more minutes).
5. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Add the shrimp back into the sauce. Stir gently to coat.
2. Slice the rested steak against the grain.
3. Serve shrimp and sauce over the steak or side-by-side.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Over garlic mashed potatoes
• On top of buttery fettuccine pasta
• Alongside creamy grits
• With a side of grilled asparagus or sautéed greens

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🧑‍🍳 Method Tips:

• Don’t skip the resting time for the steak – it keeps the juices locked in.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• Want more heat? Add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.

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