Description
Surf and Turf Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
2 filet mignon steaks or your favorite cut
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Pasta:
8 oz penne pasta
Salt for pasta water
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package instructions.
Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Set aside.
Cook the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
Add the steaks to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness.
Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Tilt the pan to coat the steaks with the butter and garlic.
Remove the steaks from the skillet, let them rest for 5 minutes, then slice them thinly.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add olive oil over medium heat.
Season the shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, and add the reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce.
Arrange the sliced steak and shrimp on top of the pasta.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with extra Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy your surf and turf pasta for a rich and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: season the steak and shrimp, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and chop herbs. Cook the pasta first, as it can sit while you prepare the proteins. For the steak, ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the oil and steaks to get a proper sear. After removing the steak, immediately add the shrimp to the same pan to build flavor. Finally, use that same flavorful pan to create the sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Combine everything just before serving to keep textures perfect.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the steak and shrimp. A side of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the dish’s richness. For a wine pairing, choose a medium-bodied red like a Merlot or a crisp white like a Chardonnay. If serving for a special dinner, consider individual cast-iron skillets for a dramatic presentation straight from the oven.
How-to Summary
To make Surf and Turf Pasta: 1) Boil and drain penne, saving pasta water. 2) Sear seasoned steak in a hot skillet with butter and garlic; rest and slice. 3) In the same pan, cook seasoned shrimp until pink; set aside. 4) Make the sauce by melting butter, adding cream and Parmesan, and thinning with pasta water. 5) Toss pasta in the sauce, then top with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, ribeye or New York strip work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness and fat content.
How can I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery? Avoid overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from the pan as soon as they turn opaque and pink.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. You can prep components (season proteins, grate cheese) ahead, but cook and combine just before serving.
What if my cream sauce breaks or looks grainy? This can happen if the heat is too high. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and gradually incorporate the cheese off the direct heat.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but be aware it will be less rich and thicken more slowly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently. It should taste like the sea.
- Slicing the steak immediately after cooking. Letting it rest ensures juicy, tender meat.
- Overcrowding the skillet when cooking the steak, which steams it instead of creating a sear.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to the sauce over very high heat, which can cause it to clump.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Conclusion
This Surf and Turf Pasta combines the luxurious flavors of steak and shrimp in a comforting, creamy pasta dish perfect for a special occasion or an impressive weeknight dinner. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The key lies in building layers of flavor in a single skillet and bringing everything together at the last moment. Enjoy the process and the delicious, satisfying result.