Description
Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) steak, cut into cubes
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp butter, divided
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions:
1. Season the steak and shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the steak cubes with olive oil, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, season the shrimp with the same spices.
2. Cook the steak:
Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the shrimp:
In the same skillet, add another 2 tbsp of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
5. Serve:
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, ensure your steak is at room temperature and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear. Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even heat distribution. When cooking the steak, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve a proper brown crust instead of steaming the meat. For the shrimp, wait until the garlic is fragrant but not browned before adding them. The key is to cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque and form a loose “C” shape, which indicates they are done. Finally, when combining, let the steak and shrimp simmer in the garlic butter sauce for just 30 seconds to meld the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Consider serving it over:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Purée for a comforting base.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Buttered Noodles.
- A simple garden salad or roasted asparagus to add a fresh, crisp element.
- For a low-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or sautéed spinach.
How-to Summary
Quickly season steak and shrimp with oil, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sear steak cubes in butter until browned, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic in butter, then cook shrimp until pink. Return steak to the skillet, toss everything in the garlic butter sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin (filet mignon) are excellent choices. They are tender, cook quickly, and hold up well when cubed.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry before seasoning to ensure proper searing.
3. How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink and their bodies curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. However, you can pre-measure spices and prepare ingredients. Reheating can overcook the proteins.
5. How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by reducing or omitting the chili powder. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the garlic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful sear. Cook in batches if needed.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook in just 2-3 minutes. Remove them as soon as they are opaque.
- Using Cold Meat: Let the steak sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking for more even cooking.
- Burning the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant (about 30-60 seconds). Burnt garlic turns bitter.
- Not Patting Seafood Dry: Moisture on the shrimp prevents proper browning and causes splattering.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp recipe is a restaurant-quality meal that is deceptively simple to make at home. The combination of juicy steak, succulent shrimp, and a rich garlic butter sauce is universally appealing and perfect for a special weeknight dinner or impressing guests. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a flawless, flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. Pair it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.