Description
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Steak and Shrimp:
2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Steak:
Season steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your preference. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
Make the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
Combine the Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated.
Assemble and Serve:
Plate the pasta and top with sliced steak and shrimp. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley.
This indulgent dish is perfect for a luxurious date night or special celebration. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a seamless cooking experience. First, gather and prep all ingredients before heating any pans. Begin boiling water for the pasta. As it heats, season the steaks and pat the shrimp dry. Cook the pasta to al dente, reserving the water, then drain. While the pasta cooks, sear the steaks in a very hot skillet. After resting the steaks, use the same skillet for the shrimp to capture all the flavorful bits. Finally, in a clean pan, prepare the cream sauce, combine with the pasta, and assemble.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the steak and shrimp. Serve immediately while hot. A crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay or a light Cabernet Sauvignon pairs perfectly. Complete the meal with crusty bread for soaking up the extra garlic butter sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta, reserve water. Sear seasoned steaks, rest, and slice. Sauté shrimp in garlic butter. In a separate pan, make a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, thinning it with pasta water if needed. Toss pasta in sauce, then top with sliced steak and shrimp. 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, not a boil, and add the Parmesan off the heat, stirring constantly until melted.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? A combination of half-and-half and a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch can work, but the sauce will be less rich and stable.
Can I prepare any components ahead? You can prep the shrimp and steak seasoning ahead, but cook everything fresh for the best texture and flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Not letting the steak rest: Slicing immediately causes all the flavorful juices to run out. A 5-minute rest is crucial.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grate your cheese for a silky sauce.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy water is key for binding the sauce to the pasta and adjusting consistency.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Pasta is a show-stopping dish that masterfully combines luxurious ingredients into a cohesive, decadent meal. By following the detailed steps and expert tips provided, you can confidently recreate a restaurant-quality experience at home. It’s a perfect testament to how simple techniques, when executed with care, can yield extraordinary results for any special occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious reward.