Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds: succulent steak and plump shrimp, all drizzled with a luscious garlic cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or indulging in a cozy night in. My love for this dish truly grew over countless family gatherings, where the aroma alone had everyone gathering around the table. It’s a meal that combines both comfort and elegance, making it a timeless favorite that’s sure to please.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What makes Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce a standout is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The juiciness of the steak pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp, and the creamy garlic sauce adds a rich finish that ties everything together. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.

“This dish is a showstopper! The creamy sauce takes it to another level. I can’t wait to make it again!” – A Satisfied Home Cook

Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or preparing a memorable meal for loved ones, this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Preparing Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is straightforward and satisfying. You’ll start by searing the steaks to lock in their juicy flavors, then move on to cook the shrimp, all in the same skillet for maximum flavor. Finally, that creamy garlic sauce will come together in no time, making the entire cooking process seamless and enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown of how to do it!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients:

2 ribeye or strip steaks (1-inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
1 tsp salt (divided)
½ tsp black pepper (divided)
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp butter (for basting)
½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ tsp garlic powder
Juice of ½ lemon
1 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Additional salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for serving
Steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted broccoli for serving
Lemon wedges for garnish

Feel free to substitute shrimp for another seafood option like scallops, or use chicken if you prefer!

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Steak: Start by patting the steaks dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes; this will help them cook evenly.
Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time based on thickness). In the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter and baste the steaks. Transfer them to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let them rest.
Cook the Shrimp: Lower the skillet temperature to medium, adding a splash more olive oil if needed. Place the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning with salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Drizzle lemon juice over the shrimp, then remove them from the skillet.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Serve: Slice the steak if desired and arrange it on a plate alongside the shrimp. Generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over both, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with your choice of sides.

Perfect Pairings for Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce delights every bite!

For a meal that impresses, serve your Surf and Turf with creamy garlic sauce alongside creamy mashed potatoes, spaghetti, or a fluffy rice pilaf. A side of sautéed asparagus, green beans, or roasted broccoli adds freshness and color to your plate. Don’t forget refreshing lemon wedges to brighten up the dish and enhance those flavors!

Best Way to Store Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce delights every bite!

To keep your delectable dinner fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the steak and shrimp on the stove over low heat to avoid toughening the meat. The creamy garlic sauce can be gently reheated on the stove as well, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked shrimp and steak separately, although the cream sauce may not freeze well. Always follow safe food handling practices!

Helpful Hints

For an extra depth of flavor, marinate your steaks for a few hours in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
If you prefer your steaks well-done, cook them longer, ensuring their internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C).
Don’t skip the resting stage for the steak; it’s key for juicy results as it allows the juices to redistribute.

Creative Twists

Give this classic dish a fun twist by experimenting with flavors or ingredients. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the creamy garlic sauce or toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or dill into the sauce as it simmers. If you’re looking for a lighter option, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. You can also use different cuts of steak, such as filet mignon or sirloin, to suit your taste!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

What’s a good side for leftovers?
Leftover surf and turf pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or on a bed of greens for a flavorful lunch option.

By following this guide, you can create a memorable dinner experience that’s sure to leave your taste buds singing! Enjoy your culinary creation!

Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Description

A delightful dish that combines succulent steak and plump shrimp, all drizzled with a luscious garlic cream sauce, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ribeye or strip steaks (1-inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
1 tsp salt (divided)
½ tsp black pepper (divided)
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp butter (for basting)
½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ tsp garlic powder
Juice of ½ lemon
1 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Additional salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for serving
Steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted broccoli for serving
Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear steaks for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Baste with 1 tbsp of butter in the last minute, then let rest.
Lower heat, add more oil if needed, and cook shrimp seasoned with salt, garlic powder, and pepper for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Drizzle lemon juice and remove from skillet.
Melt 1 tbsp butter in the same skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, stir in Parmesan and Italian seasoning, simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Slice the steak if desired, arrange on a plate with shrimp, spoon creamy garlic sauce over both, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with sides.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating steaks before cooking. When reheating leftovers, warm gently to avoid toughening the meat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: surf and turf, creamy garlic sauce, steak and shrimp, special occasion, dinner recipe