Description
Steak and Shrimp Pasta
This decadent dish combines juicy grilled steak and perfectly cooked shrimp served over a creamy pasta. It’s a luxurious meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving for both land and sea!
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon butter
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine or your preferred pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions:
Prepare the Steak: Season the steaks with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust according to your preferred doneness. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add olive oil and butter. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika, then cook them in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce and toss to coat. Add the shrimp and sliced steak on top, and gently toss to combine.
Serve & Garnish: Serve the pasta on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
This Steak and Shrimp Pasta is a luxurious and indulgent meal, perfect for a special dinner. The tender steak and flavorful shrimp pair beautifully with the creamy pasta, making every bite irresistible!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a perfectly timed meal. First, bring your salted pasta water to a boil. While it heats, season your steaks. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and set a timer. As the pasta cooks, sear the steaks in a hot skillet. After removing the steaks to rest, immediately cook the shrimp in the same pan. Finally, use that flavorful pan to create the cream sauce just as the pasta finishes draining. This method ensures every component is hot and ready for assembly at the same time.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the steak and shrimp. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For wine, a medium-bodied red like a Merlot complements the steak, while a crisp Chardonnay pairs well with the shrimp and cream sauce.
How-to Summary
Season and sear steak; let rest. Cook shrimp in the same pan. Boil pasta. Create a creamy Parmesan sauce in the pan drippings. Toss pasta with sauce, then combine with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, sirloin or New York strip are excellent, budget-friendly alternatives. Avoid very thin cuts, as they will overcook quickly.
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery? The key is high heat and short cook time. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, which only takes 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking is the main cause of toughness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep components (season steak, peel shrimp, grate cheese) ahead, but cook and assemble just before serving. The pasta can become soggy and the seafood may overcook upon reheating.
What if my cream sauce breaks or looks grainy? A broken sauce is usually caused by too high heat. Remove it from the burner immediately and whisk in a splash of fresh cream or a tablespoon of hot pasta water to bring it back together.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch. Be careful not to let it boil vigorously, as it may curdle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the steak rest: Slicing immediately causes all the flavorful juices to run out. Always let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Crowding the pan when cooking shrimp: This steams them instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce. Always grate your own.
- Overcooking the garlic with the shrimp: Adding it in the last 60 seconds prevents it from burning and becoming bitter.
Conclusion
This Steak and Shrimp Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that is entirely achievable in your own kitchen. By mastering a few simple techniques—proper searing, timing, and sauce-making—you create a spectacular, balanced meal where every component shines. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a date night or any occasion that calls for a truly special and satisfying feast.