There’s something undeniably special about surf and turf. This dish combines the rich, juicy flavors of steak with the tender, sweet taste of seafood, all tied together with a creamy garlic sauce. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to make at home.
Whether it’s a date night or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers big on flavor without needing fancy skills. The creamy garlic sauce soaks into the steak and shrimp, making every bite irresistible. Let’s dive into how to whip up this classic combo!
Why People Love This Surf and Turf Recipe
This dish is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. The mix of land and sea—steak and shrimp—brings a balance of textures and tastes that’s hard to beat. It feels like a restaurant-quality meal, but you can make it in your own kitchen.
The creamy garlic sauce is the real star, though. It’s rich without being heavy, and the garlic adds a punch that complements both the meat and seafood. Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy night but fancy enough to impress guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list to pull this off. Simple, fresh ingredients make all the difference here. Here’s what to grab before you start cooking.
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 8-10 oz each)
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Keep your steaks at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. It helps them cook evenly. Fresh shrimp works best, but frozen will do if you thaw it first.
Kitchen Tools for the Job
No fancy gadgets are required here. A few basic tools will get you through this recipe with ease. Here’s what you’ll need.
- A large skillet (cast iron works great)
- Tongs for flipping the steak and shrimp
- A cutting board and sharp knife
- A small bowl for mixing spices
- A whisk for the sauce
If you’ve got these on hand, you’re ready to go. A cast iron skillet holds heat well, but any heavy pan will work.
Preparing the Steak and Shrimp
Getting the meat and seafood ready is quick and straightforward. A little seasoning goes a long way. Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Season the Steak
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika if you like a smoky kick. Set them aside while you prep the shrimp.
Step 2: Prep the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry. Toss them with a little salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This keeps them juicy when they hit the pan.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove them to a plate and cover with foil to rest.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until they turn pink and opaque. Set them aside with the steaks.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan, whisking until smooth.
Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’ll thicken slightly and pick up the flavors from the pan. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Return the steaks and shrimp to the skillet. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over them and let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfect Surf and Turf
A few tricks can take this dish from good to amazing. These pointers will help you nail it every time.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer for the steak (135°F for medium-rare).
- Fresh garlic is best; it gives the sauce a bolder flavor.
- Let the steak rest to keep it juicy.
If you’re new to cooking steak, start with a thinner cut. It’s easier to handle and cooks faster.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines on its own, but a few sides can round out the meal. Keep it simple to let the surf and turf take center stage. Here are some ideas.
- Serve with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Add a light salad with a lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
- Pour a glass of white wine or a cold beer to sip alongside.
Plate the steak and shrimp together, then drizzle extra sauce on top. It looks as good as it tastes.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of what’s in a serving of this surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce. Numbers are approximate based on a single portion (1 steak, 6 shrimp, and sauce).
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 780 kcal |
| Protein | 62g |
| Fat | 58g |
| Saturated Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 920mg |
This is a rich dish, so it’s perfect for a special occasion. Pair it with veggies to balance things out.
Summary
Surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce is the ultimate treat for meat and seafood lovers. The tender steak, succulent shrimp, and luscious sauce come together in under 30 minutes. It’s a dish that looks impressive but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen.
With basic ingredients and simple steps, anyone can master this recipe. It’s versatile enough for a cozy dinner or a celebration with friends. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a timeless favorite.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, sirloin or filet mignon works well too. Just adjust cooking time based on thickness.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of butter can substitute, though the sauce won’t be as thick.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Cook the steak and shrimp fresh, but you can prep the sauce earlier and reheat it gently.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
Use less cream and swap some for chicken broth, though the texture will change slightly.
Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely, scallops or lobster tails would pair nicely with the sauce.
Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Equipment
- Large skillet (cast iron preferred)
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks about 8-10 oz each
- 12 large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika if you like a smoky kick. Set them aside while you prep the shrimp.
Step 2: Prep the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry. Toss them with a little salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This keeps them juicy when they hit the pan.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove them to a plate and cover with foil to rest.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until they turn pink and opaque. Set them aside with the steaks.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan, whisking until smooth.
Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’ll thicken slightly and pick up the flavors from the pan. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Combine Everything
- Return the steaks and shrimp to the skillet. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over them and let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
