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### **Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Steak**
1. **Season the Steaks:** Pat your steaks dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with **salt and pepper**.
2. **Cook the Steaks:** In a large skillet or grill pan, heat **olive oil** over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness (adjust the time for thinner or thicker cuts).
– For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C) internal temperature.
– For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C).
– For well-done, aim for 160°F (71°C).
3. **Rest the Steaks:** Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and let them rest on a plate, tented with foil, for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
4. **Sauté Garlic and Thyme:** In the same pan, add **butter**, **minced garlic**, and **fresh thyme** (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to make sure the flavors meld into the pan juices. Remove from heat and set aside.
#### **Step 2: Make the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce**
1. **Cook the Shrimp:** In another pan, melt **2 tablespoons butter** over medium-high heat. Add the **shrimp** and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** In the same pan, add **diced onion** and **bell pepper** and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
3. **Add Garlic and Spices:** Stir in the **minced garlic**, **Cajun seasoning**, **smoked paprika**, and **cayenne pepper** (if using). Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. **Make the Sauce:** Add the **heavy cream** and **chicken broth** to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. **Add Shrimp and Final Seasoning:** Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir them into the sauce. Let them warm through for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with **salt and pepper** as needed.
#### **Step 3: Assemble the Dish**
1. **Plate the Steaks:** Place the rested steaks on serving plates.
2. **Top with Sauce:** Generously spoon the creamy Cajun shrimp sauce over the steaks.
3. **Garnish:** Sprinkle freshly chopped **parsley** over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Sides:** Pair your **Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce** with your favorite sides. Consider serving it with **roasted vegetables**, **mashed potatoes**, **garlic bread**, or **steamed asparagus**.
– **Wine Pairing:** A full-bodied red wine like a **Cabernet Sauvignon** or a rich **Malbec** complements the flavors of the steak and shrimp sauce beautifully. For white wine lovers, a **Chardonnay** with some oak aging works well.
– **Garnish:** For a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of **lemon juice** over the top of the steak just before serving.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce**
– **Choose the Right Cut of Steak:** Ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon all work beautifully with this recipe, but any steak cut you enjoy can be used. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on thickness and your desired doneness.
– **Adjust the Cajun Spice:** The level of heat in the shrimp sauce is customizable. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning. For an extra spicy kick, feel free to add more!
– **Cook Shrimp Carefully:** Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They should turn pink and opaque and be slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
– **Use a Cast Iron Skillet:** If you have a cast-iron skillet, use it for both the steak and the shrimp sauce. It retains heat well, which results in better searing of the steak and a perfect sauce reduction.
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### **Conclusion**
This **Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce** is a true showstopper, combining the rich, savory flavors of steak with the bold, spicy kick of Cajun shrimp in a velvety, creamy sauce. It’s a dish that feels like a luxury meal at a fine dining restaurant, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or just when you want to indulge in something truly delicious, this surf and turf masterpiece is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
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