Spicy Cajun Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Shrimp – A Surf & Turf Feast

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who loves bringing a touch of restaurant elegance into everyday kitchens. One of my all-time favorite indulgent meals is Spicy Cajun Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Shrimp—the ultimate surf & turf experience. Juicy, marbled ribeye is seasoned with bold Cajun spices and pan-seared to perfection, while tender shrimp are bathed in sizzling garlic butter. This pairing delivers smoky, spicy, and buttery flavors in every bite. It’s hearty, luxurious, and surprisingly approachable, making it perfect for date nights, holidays, or whenever you want to impress.

Overview of Spicy Cajun Ribeye Steak

This Cajun Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe brings together the richness of beef and the delicate sweetness of shrimp. The ribeye is generously coated with Cajun seasoning, seared to lock in flavor, and finished with a buttery crust. The shrimp are sautéed in a skillet with garlic, butter, and parsley until perfectly tender. Together, they create a surf & turf masterpiece that balances heat, smoke, and creaminess. Served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even over rice, this dish transforms dinner into a celebration-worthy occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfect Pairing: Ribeye’s richness meets shrimp’s sweetness.
• Bold Cajun Flavor: Smoky, spicy, and vibrant seasoning.
• Luxurious Garlic Butter: Adds silkiness to shrimp and steak.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Elegant but easy.
• Versatility: Ideal for special dinners or weeknight indulgence.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Steak and shrimp provide muscle-supporting protein.
• Omega-3 Boost: Shrimp promote heart and brain health.
• Spices & Herbs: Cajun spices and garlic add antioxidants.
• Iron & Zinc: Ribeye supports energy and immunity.
• Balanced Energy: Serve with veggies for a wholesome plate.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 ½ inches thick)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Spicy Cajun Ribeye Steak

Season ribeye steaks generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet and sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, basting with butter in the last minute. Transfer to rest. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Finish with lemon juice, parsley, and optional red pepper flakes. Plate ribeye steaks and top with garlic butter shrimp, spooning extra butter sauce over the top. Serve immediately with sides like potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steaks: Pat ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat the Skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Carefully add steaks and sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes. Flip and sear the other side. For medium-rare, cook until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
3. Butter Baste: Add butter to the skillet. As it melts, tilt the pan and spoon melted butter over the steaks repeatedly to build richness and flavor. Remove steaks and rest on a plate, tented with foil.
4. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add more butter. Once melted, sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes for brightness and heat.
5. Assemble & Serve: Plate each ribeye steak with a generous topping of garlic butter shrimp. Spoon extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over both steak and shrimp. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

This dish combines the deep, smoky sear of Cajun steak with the luscious tenderness of garlic butter shrimp, creating a restaurant-style surf & turf at home.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 2)

• Calories: 780
• Protein: 60g
• Fat: 55g
• Saturated Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 760mg

Serving with Spicy Cajun Ribeye Steak

This Cajun Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Shrimp is best served hot off the skillet, with the shrimp piled generously over the steak. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a light garden salad to balance the richness. For a festive touch, add a glass of bold red wine or chilled white wine. When served on a rustic wooden board or cast-iron skillet, the presentation feels like a restaurant feast at home—perfect for date nights, family celebrations, or anytime you want to indulge in something extraordinary.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Spice Control: Adjust Cajun seasoning for mild or bold heat.
• Alternative Cuts: Use New York strip or filet mignon.
• Shrimp Swap: Try scallops or lobster for a twist.
• Citrus Boost: Add zest of lemon for brightness.
• Meal Prep: Shrimp can be cleaned and steaks pre-seasoned ahead of time.

The Bottom Line

The Spicy Cajun Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Shrimp proves that steak and seafood are a match made in culinary heaven. With smoky Cajun spice, juicy steak, and buttery garlic shrimp, every bite feels indulgent and celebratory. For me, this recipe embodies the joy of cooking at home—taking bold flavors, quick steps, and everyday ingredients to create something that feels truly special. Whether you’re cooking for two or entertaining guests, this surf & turf feast delivers the luxury of a steakhouse right from your own kitchen.