The Surf and Turf Steak and Grilled Shrimp Plate is the ultimate combination of land and sea, featuring a perfectly seared steak alongside juicy, flavorful grilled shrimp. This restaurant-quality dish is surprisingly easy to prepare at home and makes for an impressive meal for date nights, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Best of Both Worlds: Combines rich, juicy steak with tender, flavorful shrimp.
- Easy and Elegant: A high-end meal that’s simple to prepare at home.
- Customizable: Works with different cuts of steak and various shrimp seasonings.
- Perfectly Balanced: The bold, beefy flavors contrast beautifully with the light, garlicky shrimp.
- Great for Special Occasions: A show-stopping dish for celebrations or date nights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip steaks (about 8-10 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
For the Grilled Shrimp:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional but Recommended):
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving (Optional):
- Grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, or garlic mashed potatoes
- Lemon wedges
Directions
1. Prepare the Steak
- Remove the steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
- Pat dry with paper towels and rub both sides with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add a drizzle of oil.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness).
- In the last minute of cooking, reduce heat to medium, add butter, minced garlic, and rosemary or thyme. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks repeatedly for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
2. Prepare the Grilled Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional)
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley, then remove from heat.
4. Assemble and Serve
- Plate the rested steak alongside the grilled shrimp.
- Drizzle the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve with grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, or your favorite side dishes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 5-10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Cajun Surf and Turf: Use Cajun seasoning on both the steak and shrimp.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Toss shrimp in melted butter and grated Parmesan after grilling.
- Herb-Crusted Steak: Add a crust of fresh rosemary and thyme before searing.
- Lemon Pepper Shrimp: Use lemon zest and black pepper for a fresh citrusy kick.
- Asian-Style Surf and Turf: Marinate the shrimp in soy sauce, ginger, and honey before grilling.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended for shrimp but steak can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat steak in a low oven (275°F/135°C) for 10 minutes or gently in a skillet. Shrimp can be quickly reheated in a pan over low heat.
FAQs
What’s the best steak cut for surf and turf?
Filet mignon, ribeye, or New York strip are great options for tenderness and flavor.
Can I cook the steak and shrimp on the same grill?
Yes! Sear the steak first, then cook the shrimp since they need less time.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and grilling.
What sides pair well with surf and turf?
Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes! Béarnaise sauce, chimichurri, or a red wine reduction all pair beautifully.
Can I cook this dish indoors?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan for the shrimp and a cast-iron skillet for the steak.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly—as soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
Should I marinate the steak?
Not necessary, but a quick dry rub or overnight marinade can enhance the flavor.
What’s the best ale or wine pairing?
- Red wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot
- White wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Beer: A rich amber ale or stout
Conclusion
The Surf and Turf Steak and Grilled Shrimp Plate is the ultimate indulgence, bringing together the bold flavors of a perfectly seared steak and succulent grilled shrimp. Whether for a special occasion or just a luxurious dinner at home, this dish delivers elegance and deliciousness in every bite. Try it today and elevate your home-cooked meal to restaurant quality!