Description
Steak and Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
3 filet mignon medallions
6 jumbo shrimp
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions:
1. Sear the Steak:
Season filet mignon with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat.
Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side (medium-rare), then set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stir, and let it simmer for 3 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese, stir until melted, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine & Garnish:
Return the steak and shrimp to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by patting your filet mignon medallions and jumbo shrimp dry with a paper towel; this ensures a proper sear. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the steaks, searing undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side to achieve a beautiful crust and medium-rare interior. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil. In the same skillet, add the shrimp, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until just opaque and pink. Remove and set aside with the steak.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the heavy cream, stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer gently for 3 minutes to thicken slightly. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Return the steak and shrimp to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over them to warm through for a final minute. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and decadent dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the luxurious sauce. Consider serving it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta like fettuccine, or a simple risotto. For a lighter option, roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad provide a perfect textural contrast. A slice of crusty bread is essential for cleaning the plate.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned steak and set aside. Cook shrimp in the same pan and set aside. Sauté garlic, then add broth and cream to simmer. Whisk in Parmesan to create the sauce. Return steak and shrimp to the pan, coat with sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, while filet mignon is tender, you can use ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
How can I prevent the garlic from burning? Always reduce the heat to medium or medium-low before adding the garlic. Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter sauce, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be thinner. Full-fat coconut milk is a good dairy-free alternative.
How do I know when the shrimp are done? Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and pink and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce base ahead, but add the Parmesan when reheating to prevent separation. Gently reheat on the stove.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Sear the steak in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of searing.
- Overcooking the Seafood: Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them from the pan as soon as they are pink.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Liquid: Let the cream mixture simmer gently before adding Parmesan. High heat can cause the cheese to clump or the sauce to break.
- Skipping the Deglazing Step: The browned bits (fond) left from searing are packed with flavor. Using the chicken broth to deglaze incorporates them into the sauce.
Conclusion
This Steak and Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Sauce is an impressive yet approachable restaurant-quality meal perfect for a special dinner. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and pairing it with your favorite sides, you’re guaranteed a delicious and memorable surf and turf experience. The key lies in proper searing, a well-balanced sauce, and careful timing to ensure every component is perfectly cooked.