When the sun sets and the mood calls for something special, there’s no dish quite like surf and turf to elevate your dining experience. Imagine the sizzling sound of premium filet mignon meeting hot oil, while juicy, succulent shrimp dance alongside in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This Garlic Butter Surf and Turf recipe not only promises restaurant-quality flavors but also fits effortlessly into a busy weeknight schedule—ready in just 30 minutes!
I discovered this delightful creation amid a flurry of meal planning, desperately seeking a way to impress but keep it simple. The best part? You don’t need to reserve it for fancy occasions like Valentine’s Day; this dish is perfect for any night you want to treat yourself or your loved ones to something that feels truly gourmet. With a few easy steps and a couple of fresh ingredients, you’ll find yourself creating a culinary masterpiece that showcases the perfect marriage of land and sea. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure and transform your kitchen into a sophisticated dining locale!
Why are surf and turf recipes so popular?
Decadent Experience: Surf and turf brings together the best of land and sea for an unforgettable meal.
Rapid Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can impress family and guests alike without the fuss of a complicated recipe.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the shrimp next to the perfectly seared steak create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic rosemary butter elevates the dish, infusing each bite with robust flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different cuts of steak or even seafood to freshen things up; the possibilities are endless!
If you’d like some amazing ways to serve up this dish, check out my serving suggestions for delightful pairings!
Surf and Turf Ingredients
For the Steak and Shrimp
- Filet Mignon – A premium cut renowned for its tenderness; consider alternatives like New York steak or ribeye for varied flavors.
- Large Shrimp – Peeled, deveined, and tail-on for an appealing presentation; quick cooking is a must to maintain juiciness.
- Fine Sea Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of both ingredients; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Provides a warming depth to the dish; sprinkle to enhance flavor.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil – Ideal for high-heat searing; can substitute with canola or avocado oil without compromising taste.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and is essential for basting, enhancing flavor for your surf and turf recipes.
For Flavoring
- Garlic Cloves – Infuses an aromatic richness into the butter sauce; fresh garlic works wonders.
- Fresh Rosemary – Offers an aromatic herbal note, elevating each bite to new heights of flavor.
With these vibrant ingredients, you’re ready to create a stunning Garlic Butter Surf and Turf that will transform any evening into a gourmet affair!
How to Make Surf and Turf
Pat Dry: Start by patting your filet mignon and shrimp dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice sear and keeps them juicy during cooking.
Season Generously: Just before cooking, season your steak with fine sea salt and black pepper. Don’t forget to season your shrimp too, making every bite burst with flavor!
Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s almost smoking. Add vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly.
Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear for 4 minutes on one side. Flip it over and sear for another 3-4 minutes until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a thermometer and remove when it’s about 10°F below your target temperature. Tent the steak with foil and let it rest.
Make the Garlic Butter: Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary into the skillet. Let those aromatics infuse the butter for a minute.
Sauté the Shrimp: Toss in your shrimp and sauté for about 1 minute per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the heat when they’re perfectly cooked.
Combine & Serve: Return the rested steak to the pan, spooning the luscious garlic rosemary butter over both the shrimp and the steak before serving. This adds an irresistible flavor boost!
Optional: Garnish with fresh rosemary for an added touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Surf and Turf Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Different Cuts: Swap filet mignon for New York steak or ribeye. Each cut offers unique flavors and textures.
- Seafood Switch: Try scallops or lobster instead of shrimp for a luxurious twist that feels extra special.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes while cooking for a delightful heat that livens up your dish.
- Herb Infusion: Replace rosemary with fresh thyme or parsley for a fresh and vibrant herbal flavor profile.
- Citrus Zest: Squeeze some lemon or lime juice before serving to brighten the dish with a refreshing zing.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for added texture and color alongside your steak and shrimp.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in any marinades or sauces to keep it friendly for gluten-sensitive diners.
- Butter Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter and increase the garlic for flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Surf and Turf recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without the last-minute rush! You can season the filet mignon and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, as this helps the flavors to deepen. Simply pat them dry and rub with salt and pepper before wrapping them separately and refrigerating. Additionally, prepare the garlic butter mixture with garlic and rosemary up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just heat the skillet and follow the remaining steps for a delicious meal that tastes as if it was made fresh just for you!
Expert Tips for Surf and Turf Recipes
Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked steak, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for 125°F for medium doneness to avoid overcooking.
Don’t Rush the Resting: After searing, tent the steak with foil and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Prep the Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined before cooking. This saves time and preserves presentation, making your surf and turf recipes even more inviting.
Sear in Batches: If using a large skillet, don’t overcrowd it. Cook the steak and shrimp separately if necessary to ensure even cooking and that beautiful sear.
Enhance with Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors and adds a zesty contrast that complements the richness of the garlic butter.
How to Store and Freeze Surf and Turf
Fridge: Store any leftover surf and turf in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to retain the best flavors.
Freezer: While fresh surf and turf is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked leftovers for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, spooning extra garlic butter over the top to revive that delicious flavor.
Serving Freshness: For optimal taste and texture, always aim to enjoy your surf and turf recipes fresh, but these storage tips will help you savor leftovers without compromise!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Surf and Turf?
Creating a memorable dining experience goes beyond just the main attraction; it’s about the delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture and buttery flavor create a comforting contrast to the rich surf and turf.
Roasted Asparagus: This vibrant veggie brings a fresh, crisp element that balances the dish’s richness beautifully. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing.
Garlic Bread: A classic choice that envelops your palate in warmth, perfect for soaking up the heavenly garlic butter sauce. It also makes every bite feel like an indulgence!
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint, cleansing the palate while complementing the bold flavors of the steak and shrimp.
Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs offers a light yet satisfying base to soak up the luscious butter sauce from your surf and turf recipes.
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of white wine enhances the meal’s flavors and adds a touch of elegance to your dining occasion.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich and airy treat rounds off the meal with decadence, creating a delightful contrast to the savory main dish.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Garlic Butter Surf and Turf will ensure an unforgettable dining experience for you and your loved ones!
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Recipe FAQs
What type of steak should I use for surf and turf?
Absolutely! While filet mignon is the star of this dish due to its tenderness, you can easily substitute it with New York steak, ribeye, or top sirloin. Each cut brings its own unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences!
How should I store leftover surf and turf?
Store any leftover surf and turf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before sealing, as this helps retain the dish’s rich flavors and prevents moisture build-up.
Can I freeze cooked surf and turf?
Yes, you can freeze cooked leftovers for up to 2 months. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet to maintain quality.
What are some common issues when cooking surf and turf, and how can I avoid them?
Very! A common issue is overcooking the steak or shrimp, which can make them tough. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature; aim for 125°F for medium doneness. Also, ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined beforehand to save time and enhance presentation. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for the perfect sear!
Are there any dietary considerations with surf and turf ingredients?
Definitely a worthy consideration! If you’re cooking for someone with shellfish allergies, you can simply skip the shrimp and replace it with a different protein like scallops or even veggies like grilled asparagus. Make sure to check that your steak is free from any unnecessary seasonings or marinades if you’re catering to specific dietary restrictions.
How do I ensure my steak has a good sear?
To achieve a great sear, start by patting your steak and shrimp dry before seasoning them. This step is crucial, as it helps form that delightful crust. Furthermore, make sure your cast-iron skillet is preheated until it’s nearly smoking; this ensures you lock in flavors while achieving that perfect browning. Happy cooking!
Savory Surf and Turf Recipes for Ultimate Home Dining Delight
Equipment
- cast-iron skillet
Ingredients
For the Steak and Shrimp
- 2 pieces Filet Mignon Consider alternatives like New York steak or ribeye for varied flavors.
- 8 large Large Shrimp Peeled, deveined, and tail-on for presentation.
- 1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Sprinkle to enhance flavor.
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for basting.
For Flavoring
- 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Minced.
- 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary For aromatics.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Pat dry your filet mignon and shrimp with paper towels.
- Season steak with fine sea salt and black pepper, do the same for the shrimp.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil.
- Sear the steak for 4 minutes on one side, then flip and sear for another 3-4 minutes.
- Lower the heat, add unsalted butter, minced garlic, and rosemary to infuse.
- Sauté the shrimp for about 1 minute per side until pink and opaque.
- Return the rested steak to the pan and spoon garlic rosemary butter over both the shrimp and steak.