Blackened Steak & Shrimp Feast 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Blackened Seasoning:

In a small bowl, combine all the spices listed for the blackened seasoning: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is well-mixed. This seasoning blend will pack your steak and shrimp with a vibrant burst of flavor, so be sure to coat them generously before cooking.

2. Prepare the Steak:

Pat your steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this ensures a good sear. Rub both sides of each steak with the blackened seasoning mix, pressing gently so the spices stick. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to allow the seasoning to adhere and the meat to come to room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly.

While the steak is resting, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Add the olive oil to the pan and allow it to heat up until it starts to shimmer. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks. Sear each side of the steak for about 3-4 minutes, or until a dark, crusty sear forms. For a medium-rare steak, continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes per side, or until the desired internal temperature is reached (130°F for medium-rare). Add the butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for added richness.

Once the steak is done to your liking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your steak tender and juicy.

3. Cook the Shrimp:

While the steak is resting, it’s time to cook the shrimp. In the same skillet you used for the steak (this ensures the shrimp gets some of that delicious leftover blackened seasoning), add a tablespoon of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle the shrimp with blackened seasoning on both sides.

Sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and cooked through. The shrimp should be golden with a slightly crispy edge from the seasoning. For an extra touch, you can zest a little lemon over the shrimp to add a fresh, zesty flavor.

4. Assemble the Feast:

Once the steak and shrimp are both cooked, slice the steak into thick strips against the grain. Arrange the steak slices and shrimp on a large serving platter or individual plates. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

To complete the meal, serve with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad pair perfectly with this rich and flavorful feast.

Tips for the Best Blackened Steak & Shrimp Feast:

1. Don’t Skimp on the Seasoning: Blackened seasoning is key to this dish. Be generous with it when coating the steak and shrimp for maximum flavor.
2. Control the Heat: If you like spice, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne or even leave it out altogether.
3. Rest the Steak: After searing your steak, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.
4. Use High Heat for Searing: The blackening technique relies on high heat to form a flavorful crust. Be sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
5. Customize the Sides: While the steak and shrimp are the stars of the show, adding sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or grilled asparagus can elevate the meal even further.
6. Grill the Shrimp: If you want to take the flavors to the next level, try grilling the shrimp instead of pan-searing them. The smoky flavor from the grill will enhance the blackened seasoning.
7. Pair with Wine: For a wine pairing, consider a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the richness of the steak. If you prefer white wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will pair nicely with the shrimp.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:

1. Flavor Explosion: The blackened seasoning adds layers of flavor—smoky, spicy, and aromatic—making each bite of steak and shrimp an adventure for your taste buds.
2. A Feast for the Eyes: Not only does the combination of steak and shrimp look amazing, but the golden crust on the shrimp and the rich caramelized crust on the steak make for a stunning presentation.
3. Impressive Yet Simple: This dish is surprisingly easy to make, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d find at a high-end restaurant. It’s perfect for a special dinner, date night, or even a weekend treat.
4. Satisfies Both Steak and Seafood Lovers: Whether you’re a fan of steak or shrimp, this feast gives you the best of both worlds. It’s an excellent way to satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
5. Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of heat in the seasoning, switch up the protein (try blackened chicken or fish), or add your favorite sides to create a meal that’s perfect for your taste.

Conclusion:

The Blackened Steak & Shrimp Feast is the ultimate combination of bold flavors, satisfying textures, and rich indulgence. With its perfect balance of spicy, smoky seasoning, juicy steak, and succulent shrimp, this dish is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a good surf and turf meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner, this feast is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. So fire up your skillet and get ready for a meal that’s both exciting and incredibly delicious!