Description
Surf & Turf Fettuccine
This mouthwatering dish features perfectly cooked steak and shrimp atop creamy fettuccine. A luxurious meal for special occasions—or any time you want to indulge!
Ingredients:
2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Steak:
Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side (adjust for preferred doneness). Remove and let rest under foil.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and sauté shrimp with garlic for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
Make the Sauce:
In the skillet, add 1 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Stir in white wine and simmer until reduced.
Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Everything:
Toss cooked fettuccine in the sauce. Arrange sliced steak and shrimp over the pasta.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately. Pair with a glass of wine for the ultimate dining experience.
Chef’s Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet for a great sear on the steak and shrimp. Add a squeeze of lemon over the shrimp for extra flavor!
A dish this stunning deserves the spotlight at your table. Dig in and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Season: Pat steaks and shrimp dry. Generously season steaks with salt and pepper. This ensures a good crust. 2. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet until shimmering. Add steaks and sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and rest. 3. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add shrimp and garlic, cooking until shrimp are pink and curled, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside. 4. Boil Pasta: Cook fettuccine in well-salted water until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water. 5. Build the Sauce: In the skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic, then wine, simmering until reduced by half. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan until melted. 6. Combine & Finish: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, loosen with reserved pasta water. Slice the rested steak against the grain. Top the sauced pasta with steak slices and shrimp. Garnish with parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich pasta immediately on warm plates. A simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess. For vegetables, roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed spinach are excellent choices. As suggested, a glass of the dry white wine used in the sauce makes the perfect pairing. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon complements the dish well.
How-to Summary
To make Surf & Turf Fettuccine: sear seasoned steaks and set aside to rest. Sauté shrimp in the same pan. Cook fettuccine al dente, reserving pasta water. Create a creamy sauce with garlic, wine, cream, and Parmesan in the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, then top with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes. Ribeye or New York strip work well, though cooking time may vary due to thickness and fat content.
What if I don’t have white wine?
You can omit it. Substitute with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth, adding a teaspoon of lemon juice for acidity.
How can I prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling?
Keep the heat at a gentle simmer when adding cream and cheese. Avoid boiling vigorously after dairy is added.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients (mince garlic, grate cheese) and cook the steak/shrimp an hour ahead. Reheat gently in the sauce just before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Microwaveing can make the shrimp rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for helping the sauce cling to the pasta and adjusting consistency.
- Slicing the Steak Immediately: Always let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, preventing a dry result.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate a block of Parmesan fresh for a smooth melt.
Conclusion
This Surf & Turf Fettuccine transforms classic restaurant luxury into an achievable home-cooked masterpiece. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a impressively flavorful and visually stunning dish. The combination of succulent steak, tender shrimp, and a decadent, creamy pasta is sure to make any meal feel like a celebration. Enjoy the process and the delicious results.