After a long week of juggling work and life, I found myself yearning for something special to indulge in at home. As I rummaged through the pantry, I realized I had the perfect ingredients to create a dinner that felt like a restaurant experience. Enter the show-stopping “Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce.” Picture tender ribeye steaks paired with succulent shrimp, all drizzled in a rich, velvety sauce that dances on your palate. The best part? It’s quick and easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to celebrate any occasion. The blend of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a flavor profile that can transform your dinner table into a cozy bistro setting. So, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this dish promises to elevate your homemade meals beyond the fast-food routine. Grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this culinary delight!
Why will you love this Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Simplicity at Its Best: Preparing this dish is a breeze, allowing you to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rich, Savory Flavor: The marriage of juicy ribeye and tender shrimp, enveloped in a luscious garlic sauce, creates a taste that’s simply unforgettable.
Versatile Side Options: Pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes, pasta, or vibrant vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this recipe shines in every setting.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Your guests will be raving about the flavors, making you the star of the evening! For more delicious steak recipes, don’t miss our other favorites.
Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients
For the Steaks
• 2 ribeye or strip steaks – Choose 1-inch thick cuts for optimal juiciness.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – This helps in achieving a nice sear.
• 1 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the meat.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a touch of spiciness.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – Introduces a delightful depth of flavor.
• 1 tbsp butter (for basting) – This enriches the steaks with a delicious buttery finish.
For the Shrimp
• ½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh shrimp offers the best flavor.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Ensures the shrimp cook evenly without sticking.
• ½ tsp salt – Enhances the shrimp’s sweet and briny flavor.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds an extra layer of garlicky goodness.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – A hint of spice complements the dish perfectly.
• Juice of ½ lemon – Brightens up the shrimp with a zesty kick.
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
• 1 tbsp butter – This will help build the sauce’s rich flavor.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – The star ingredient that gives the sauce its irresistible aroma.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious and creamy texture.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Introduces a nutty, cheesy taste that elevates the sauce.
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning – Adds a beautiful herbaceous note to the sauce.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Adjust according to your preference for a perfectly seasoned dish.
For Garnish & Serving
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley – Fresh herbs add a pop of color and flavor.
• Mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice – Choose your favorite side to complete the meal.
• Steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted broccoli – Adds a healthy, vibrant touch.
• Lemon wedges – Perfect for squeezing over the finished dish for extra zing!
This Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce will undoubtedly become a favorite in your home, blending delightful flavors to create a dining experience that feels both special and satisfying!
How to Make Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce
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Heat the Skillet: In a skillet over medium-high heat, pour in 1 tbsp olive oil and allow it to warm up until shimmering, preparing for the perfect sear on your steaks.
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Season the Steaks: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika generously over the ribeye steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated to enhance their natural flavor.
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Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness. Baste with 1 tbsp butter during the last few minutes for a rich finish.
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Rest the Steaks: Once cooked to perfection, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
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Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
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Set Aside Shrimp: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the creamy garlic sauce.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add 1 cup heavy cream, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Serve and Garnish: Plate the steaks topped with the shrimp and creamy sauce, garnishing with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve alongside your choice of mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice, plus vibrant steamed vegetables.
Optional: Squeeze extra lemon juice over the dish for a refreshing brightness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Variations
Get ready to personalize this delightful dish with creative twists that elevate every bite!
- Grain-Free: Swap mashed potatoes for cauliflower mash for a lighter, low-carb option that’s still creamy and satisfying.
- Cheesy Add-In: Mix in a handful of shredded mozzarella or gouda to the sauce for an extra cheesy profile that melts into each forkful.
- Herbaceous Boost: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added to the garlic sauce, creating a lovely aroma that complements both the shrimp and steak beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a touch of heat that brings excitement to your palate.
- Mediterranean Flavor: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and olives into the shrimp and sauce to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
- Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream, offering a rich, exotic flavor and slight sweetness to the dish.
- Asian Inspiration: Add soy sauce and ginger to the garlic sauce, creating a delightful Asian fusion that transforms this recipe into a unique culinary experience.
Feel free to mix and match according to your taste, and make this delicious dish your own!
How to Store and Freeze Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked surf and turf in an airtight container for up to 3 months. It’s best to separate the components (steak, shrimp, and sauce) if possible.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Avoid Refreezing: Once thawed, do not refreeze the surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce to maintain the best quality and flavor.
What to Serve with Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience with the perfect accompaniments that will complement every rich bite of this delightful dish.
- Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: These creamy potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the rich sauce, soaking up all the savory flavors.
- Garlic Parmesan Pasta: A light, buttery pasta tossed with garlic and Parmesan mirrors the delicious sauce, enhancing the meal’s Italian flair.
- Steamed Asparagus: This bright, crisp vegetable adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the steak and shrimp beautifully.
- Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli offers a perfect counterpoint to the creamy sauce, providing both flavor and nutrition.
- Zesty Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to brighten flavors with a squeeze that cuts through the richness.
- Crispy Green Beans: Their tender-crisp texture brings an appealing crunch that contrasts with the creamy elements of the dish.
- Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay harmonizes so well with the seafood and butter sauce, enhancing every bite.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, consider a light chocolate mousse—a rich yet airy way to end a luxurious meal.
- Garlic Bread: For a carb-lover’s delight, garlic bread would be perfect to soak up both the creamy sauce and the rich juices from the steak.
Each of these pairings will seamlessly elevate your home-cooked meal, transforming it into something truly memorable!
Tips for the Best Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Optimal Steak Temp: Use a meat thermometer to check that the steak reaches your desired doneness—130°F for medium-rare.
Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor in your Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Butter Basting: Don’t skip the butter basting! It infuses moisture and a rich flavor into the steaks, making them irresistible.
Thick Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening, let it simmer a bit longer while stirring. Adjust seasoning to taste as it cooks.
Resting Time: Allowing the steaks to rest is crucial. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Make Ahead Options
Get a head start on your delightful Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce for those particularly busy evenings! You can season and sear the ribeye steaks up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, the shrimp can be prepped—peeled, deveined, and seasoned—up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. For the creamy garlic sauce, prepare it in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days; reheat gently before adding the shrimp. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm everything up and combine, ensuring just as delicious results with minimal effort in your busy schedule!
Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large, fresh shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a slight ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy smell or dark spots on the shells, as these can indicate spoilage. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation from affecting the quality of your dish.
Can I freeze Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Yes, you can! For maximum freshness, it’s best to freeze the components separately. Store the cooked steak, shrimp, and creamy garlic sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to help revive the sauce’s silky texture.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
Very! If you find that your creamy garlic sauce isn’t thickening as desired, continue to let it simmer on low heat while stirring frequently. This will allow the heavy cream to reduce and thicken. If it still seems too thin, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to help thicken it up to your liking.
Any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This dish contains common allergens such as shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (heavy cream and Parmesan cheese). If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using alternative ingredients, like substituting the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu and using non-dairy cream for the sauce. Always check ingredient labels for allergens if you’re uncertain.
Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce: Dinner Bliss Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the Skillet: In a skillet over medium-high heat, pour in 1 tbsp olive oil and allow it to warm up until shimmering.
- Season the Steaks: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika generously over the ribeye steaks.
- Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Rest the Steaks: Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Set Aside Shrimp: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 1 minute.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the steaks topped with the shrimp and creamy sauce, garnishing with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.