If you have been searching for a dish that truly elevates your dinner game, look no further than this Surf and Turf: Perfect Steak and Shrimp Recipe. Combining the rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavors of a perfectly seared filet mignon with tender, garlicky shrimp, this dish feels like a celebration on a plate. Each bite bursts with the contrast of juicy steak and succulent seafood, enhanced by the simplicity of fresh herbs and butter. This recipe is a delicious way to treat yourself and your loved ones, effortlessly blending surf and turf into one unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of straightforward ingredients, each one playing a vital role in building deep, balanced flavors. From the quality of the filet mignon to the aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary, every component adds texture, richness, or brightness that makes this dish shine.
- 1 lb filet mignon (2 steaks, each 1 1/2” thick): The star of the turf, tender and rich, perfect for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- 12 oz large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-on, 21-25 count): Fresh shrimp add a sweet, briny contrast that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (divided, or to taste): Enhances the natural flavors and seasons the protein evenly.
- 3/4 tsp black pepper (divided, or to taste): Adds just enough kick and depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil (or any high heat cooking oil): Essential for getting that perfect sear on the steak without sticking.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a rich, silky pan sauce that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 garlic cloves (peeled and quartered): Imparts a fragrant, savory aroma that infuses the butter and shrimp.
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary: Adds an earthy, herbal note that complements both steak and shrimp wonderfully.
How to Make Surf and Turf: Perfect Steak and Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preparing and Seasoning Your Proteins
Start by patting your shrimp and steaks dry with a paper towel – this helps achieve that ideal golden crust. Just before cooking, sprinkle the steak with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. For the shrimp, use a lighter touch with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. This careful seasoning balances the flavors perfectly without overwhelming the natural taste of the meat or seafood.
Step 2: Heating the Skillet
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s almost smoking. Adding the vegetable oil at this point ensures a hot, slick surface for searing. Swirl the oil around to coat the pan, which prevents sticking and helps develop that coveted crust on your filet mignon.
Step 3: Searing the Steaks
Place the steaks in the hot pan, resisting the temptation to move them initially. Sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing a delicious crust to form. Then, turn the steaks onto their edges to render and sear the fat rims for 30 to 60 seconds each. Pull them off the heat slightly early – about 10 degrees lower than your target temperature – because the steak will continue cooking as it rests. Transfer to a plate and loosely cover with foil.
Step 4: Adding Aromatics and Butter
Reduce heat to medium and immediately toss in the butter, garlic quarters, and fresh rosemary. The butter melts into a fragrant sauce, soaking up the herbal and garlic notes that will marry beautifully with both the steak and shrimp.
Step 5: Cooking the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook them about 1 minute on each side, until they turn pink, opaque, and perfectly tender. Since shrimp cook quickly, keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. Remove the skillet from heat right after to preserve their juicy texture.
Step 6: Finishing Touches and Serving
Return the rested steaks to the skillet and turn them gently in the buttery pan sauce, spooning some over the shrimp too. This step infuses both proteins with extra richness and flavor. Serve immediately, drizzling any remaining pan sauce over everything for a truly decadent finish.
How to Serve Surf and Turf: Perfect Steak and Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side brightens the plate and offers a zesty option to cut through the richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes or buttery roasted asparagus. For a lighter option, a crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides wonderful textural contrast and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the shrimp atop the steak for a stunning “surf on turf” presentation. Alternatively, serve the shrimp on skewers alongside the steak for an elegant, restaurant-style touch. Drizzle extra pan sauce artistically around the plate to invite your guests to savor every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and shrimp separate if possible to avoid flavor and texture blending.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked steak and shrimp wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low oven or skillet with a splash of broth or butter to maintain juiciness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the steak tough and the shrimp rubbery. Gentle reheating helps preserve the texture and flavor of this beautiful recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this Surf and Turf: Perfect Steak and Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! While filet mignon is tender and ideal here, ribeye or strip steak works wonderfully as well. Just adjust cooking times to suit the thickness and fat content.
What is the best way to ensure the shrimp don’t overcook?
Keep the shrimp cooking time short – about one minute per side – and remove from heat as soon as they’re pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their sweet flavor.
Can I make the pan sauce dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or olive oil. Keep garlic and rosemary in the pan sauce for full flavor.
Is using a cast-iron skillet necessary for this recipe?
Cast iron is highly recommended because it distributes heat evenly and creates the best sear, but a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan will work if cast iron is unavailable.
Can I prepare this dish for more than two people?
Definitely! Just increase the quantities proportionally and cook the steak and shrimp in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can prevent proper searing.
Final Thoughts
This Surf and Turf: Perfect Steak and Shrimp Recipe is one of those special meals that brings people together around the table to enjoy something truly indulgent and satisfying. Simple enough to prepare at home, yet stunning enough to impress guests, it’s a dish worth making again and again. I hope you get to experience the joy of this surf and turf classic very soon – your taste buds will thank you!
