Description
Surf & Turf Garlic Bread
A mouthwatering fusion of juicy steak, succulent shrimp, and melty cheese, all piled onto buttery, garlicky bread. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or a show-stopping main dish!
Ingredients:
1 large French baguette or Italian loaf
1/2 lb ribeye steak, cubed
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Prep the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place it on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Make the Garlic Butter:
Mix melted butter with minced garlic. Brush generously over both halves of the bread.
Cook the Steak & Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear for 2-3 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove from the pan.
In the same pan, cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
Assemble:
Layer the steak and shrimp evenly over the garlic bread. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
Garnish & Serve:
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Pro Tip:
Add a drizzle of garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor. Perfect with a crisp, cold drink!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a flawless Surf & Turf Garlic Bread. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your baguette lengthwise and place it on a foil-lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Using a pastry brush, apply an even, generous layer of this garlic butter to the cut sides of the bread. Set this aside while you cook the proteins.
Pat your steak cubes and shrimp completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for a good sear. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then sear for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms. Remove the steak, and in the same hot pan, add the shrimp. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just opaque. Evenly distribute the cooked steak and shrimp over the buttered bread. Top with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then broil for the final 1-2 minutes for a perfectly golden, bubbly finish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile. For a casual game-day feast, slice it into thick pieces and serve directly on the baking sheet. As a main course, pair it with a light, crisp salad like a Caesar or arugula with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For an elegant appetizer, slice the loaf into smaller, bite-sized portions for easy sharing. The suggested lemon wedges are essential—a squeeze of fresh juice brightens every bite. A side of garlic aioli, remoulade, or a spicy mayo for dipping elevates it further.
How-to Summary
In brief: Prepare garlic butter and coat halved bread. Sear seasoned steak cubes, then shrimp, in a hot skillet. Layer meats on bread, top with cheeses, and bake until melted and golden. Garnish with parsley and lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. You can make the garlic butter, season the steak and shrimp, and shred the cheeses a few hours in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble just before baking.
What are the best steak and shrimp substitutes? For the steak, sirloin or strip steak work well. For shrimp, scallops are a fantastic alternative. Ensure any seafood is patted dry before cooking.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy? The key is to brush with butter and bake it for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings. This creates a protective, crispy barrier.
Can I make this on the grill? Absolutely. Cook the steak and shrimp on the grill for added smokiness. Wrap the assembled loaf in foil and place it over indirect heat until the cheese melts.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for best texture; the microwave will make the bread chewy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Proteins: Steak and shrimp cook quickly. Sear steak to medium-rare and shrimp just until pink to keep them tender during baking.
- Using Cold Toppings: Adding cold steak and shrimp from the fridge can lower the oven temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Use them warm or at room temperature.
- Skipping the Pre-Toast: Not toasting the buttered bread first is a common error that results in a soft, soggy base.
- Overloading with Cheese: While tempting, too much cheese can overwhelm the surf and turf flavors and make the dish greasy.
Conclusion
This Surf & Turf Garlic Bread masterfully combines luxurious ingredients into a uniquely shareable and indulgent dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its perfect balance of savory steak, sweet shrimp, rich cheese, and aromatic garlic makes it ideal for any occasion, from a weeknight treat to a party centerpiece. Don’t forget the final garnish of fresh parsley and lemon—it truly makes all the difference.