Description
Steak & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Sauce
Elevate your dinner with this decadent surf and turf dish featuring juicy steak and tender shrimp, all smothered in a luxurious garlic cream sauce! Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 sprigs fresh thyme
For the Shrimp:
8-10 large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp paprika
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Steak
Season steaks with salt & pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add butter and thyme.
Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust time for desired doneness.
Remove and let rest.
Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add olive oil.
Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Add garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, stir in Parmesan, and let simmer until thickened.
Stir in lemon zest for a zesty kick.
Combine & Serve
Return steaks and shrimp to the skillet, spooning sauce over.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy!
Serve with mashed potatoes or buttery asparagus for a complete meal!
Pro Tips:
Need more sauce? Double the ingredients for the creamy garlic sauce.
Add heat! Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with white wine before adding cream.
Would you pair this with a glass of red or white wine?
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect execution. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped (garlic minced, shrimp deveined, cheese grated). Pat steaks and shrimp dry with paper towels for a superior sear. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan. After searing the steaks, use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness: 135°F for medium-rare. Letting the steak rest for 5-7 minutes is non-negotiable, as it allows juices to redistribute. When making the sauce, keep the heat at medium-low after adding the cream to prevent curdling. Stir constantly while adding the Parmesan until fully melted and integrated.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this dish for maximum visual appeal. Slice the rested steak against the grain and arrange it alongside the shrimp. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over everything. Classic pairings include garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the sauce. For vegetables, roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provide a fresh contrast. Serve immediately.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear steaks; remove to rest. Sauté seasoned shrimp in the same pan; remove. In the pan drippings, make a sauce by sautéing garlic, adding cream and Parmesan, and simmering to thicken. Finish sauce with lemon zest and parsley. Return proteins to pan, coat with sauce, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes. Ribeye and filet mignon are premium choices for tenderness, but New York strip or sirloin work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but you can prepare it 1-2 hours ahead. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream to loosen it.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Do not use milk, as it will likely curdle.
How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking? Shrimp cook very quickly. Sauté just until they turn opaque and pink, about 2-3 minutes total. They will warm through again when added back to the sauce.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the sauce? For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative. The flavor profile will change but can still be delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Searing too many items at once steams them instead of creating a flavorful crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adding Cold Cream to a Very Hot Pan: This can cause the cream to separate. Let the pan cool slightly after sautéing garlic, or temper the cream by adding a little hot pan liquid to it first.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into a silky sauce. Always grate your own.
- Slicing the Steak Immediately: Cutting into the steak right after cooking releases all the precious juices onto the cutting board instead of keeping them in the meat.
Conclusion
This Steak & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Sauce is a restaurant-quality meal achievable in your own kitchen. The combination of savory, perfectly cooked steak, succulent shrimp, and a rich, aromatic sauce is guaranteed to impress. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and pairing it with your favorite sides, you can turn any dinner into a celebrated occasion. The key lies in quality ingredients, proper technique, and serving it with confidence. Enjoy the process and the delicious results.