Description
Creamy Surf and Turf Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Steak and Shrimp:
2 ribeye steaks (about 8 oz each)
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Steak:
Season the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over high heat with olive oil. Sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust for your desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Toss in the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, adding reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine:
Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated. Plate the pasta, then top with the sliced steak and shrimp.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a luxurious dinner!
This indulgent surf and turf pasta is packed with flavor and perfect for a special occasion. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof dish. First, gather and prep all ingredients before heating any pans. Begin boiling your salted pasta water. As it heats, pat your steaks and shrimp dry and season the steaks generously. Sear the steaks in a very hot skillet to develop a crust, then set aside on a cutting board to rest—this keeps them juicy. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp quickly; they are done when opaque and curled. Remove them. Now, start your sauce by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add the cream and seasonings. Let it simmer gently to thicken slightly before adding the Parmesan. Finally, toss the drained pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to create a silky consistency that coats every piece.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta immediately for the best texture. Serve it on warm plates to keep the sauce from seizing. A simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette helps cut through the dish’s richness. For wine pairings, a full-bodied Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy sauce and savory steak beautifully. Crusty garlic bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta, reserving water. Sear seasoned steaks and let rest. Sauté shrimp in the same pan. Create a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce in that pan, using pasta water to adjust consistency. Toss pasta in sauce, top with sliced steak and shrimp, and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, filet mignon or New York strip are excellent, tender alternatives. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
How can I prevent the cream sauce from breaking? Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling vigorously. Adding the cheese off the direct heat and stirring constantly also helps.
Can I make this ahead of time? The components can be prepped, but for best results, assemble just before serving. Reheating can overcook the proteins and cause the sauce to separate.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? A combination of half-and-half and a tablespoon of cream cheese can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be less rich.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked? Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and form a loose “C” shape. An overcooked shrimp forms a tight “O”.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the steak, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not add Parmesan cheese to boiling sauce, as high heat can cause it to clump. Ensure your pasta is well-drained but not bone-dry before adding it to the sauce, as a little starch helps the sauce adhere. Finally, do not skip resting the steak before slicing, or you will lose its precious juices.
Conclusion
This creamy surf and turf pasta transforms a classic restaurant concept into an achievable, show-stopping home-cooked meal. By mastering the sequence of cooking the proteins and building a simple, luxurious sauce in one pan, you create layers of flavor with minimal cleanup. It’s the perfect recipe to impress guests or elevate a weeknight dinner into a memorable celebration. Enjoy the delicious results of combining land and sea in one comforting, elegant dish.