Description
Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Skillet
Ingredients:
2 ribeye steaks (6 oz each)
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
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Instructions:
1. Season the Steak and Shrimp
Season steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon juice.
2. Cook the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust timing for desired doneness. Remove steaks from the skillet and let rest.
3. Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to low. Melt remaining butter in the skillet, stir in minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Add lemon juice and stir until combined.
5. Assemble the Dish
Return the steaks and shrimp to the skillet, spoon the garlic butter sauce over them, and warm for 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve & Garnish
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your steaks are at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking for even searing. Pat both steaks and shrimp completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for a good sear. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron, for optimal heat retention. When searing the steaks, do not move them for the first 3 minutes to develop a flavorful crust. After removing the steaks, let them rest on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil, for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. When cooking the shrimp, arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Finally, when making the sauce, keep the heat low to gently cook the garlic without burning it, which would make the sauce bitter.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful skillet dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Consider serving it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or buttery pasta like fettuccine. For a lighter option, roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp garden salad make excellent accompaniments. A slice of crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce from your plate.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pan meal involves searing seasoned steaks to your preferred doneness and setting them aside to rest. In the same pan, quickly cook the seasoned shrimp until pink. Then, create a simple sauce by melting butter with garlic and lemon juice. Finally, return the meat to the skillet, coat it in the sauce, garnish, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use New York strip, sirloin, or filet mignon. Adjust cooking times slightly as thickness and fat content vary.
2. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” and become rubbery.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. However, you can prep ingredients in advance: season the steak and shrimp, mince garlic, and chop parsley. Cook just before serving.
4. What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
You can substitute 1/2 tablespoon of bottled lemon juice, but fresh is highly recommended for the brightest flavor.
5. How can I prevent the garlic from burning in the sauce?
Ensure the heat is reduced to low before adding the butter and garlic. Stir constantly and cook just until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking cold steak: This leads to an unevenly cooked interior and a weak sear.
- Overcrowding the skillet: This steams the food instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Moving the steak too soon: Allow a proper crust to form before flipping.
- Skipping the rest time for the steak: Cutting immediately will cause flavorful juices to spill out.
- Overcooking the shrimp: They cook very quickly and become tough if left in the pan too long.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Skillet is a restaurant-quality meal that is deceptively simple to make at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, flavorful dinner using just one pan. The combination of juicy steak, succulent shrimp, and a rich garlic butter sauce is truly irresistible. It’s a perfect dish for a special weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests with minimal cleanup. Gather your ingredients, heat your skillet, and get ready to enjoy this delightful one-pan wonder.