Description
Surf and Turf Recipe (Steak and Shrimp with Creamy Sauce)
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
For the Shrimp:
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
1 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Rub the steaks with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
2. Cook the Steak:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (or adjust to your preferred doneness). Remove from heat and let rest.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Place the steak on a plate, drizzle with the creamy sauce, and top with the cooked shrimp. Garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve:
Serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a perfectly timed surf and turf. First, pat your steaks and shrimp dry to ensure a good sear. Season the steaks and let them rest at room temperature as instructed. While they rest, season the shrimp and prepare your sauce ingredients (mince garlic, grate Parmesan, chop parsley). Heat your skillet until very hot before adding the steaks. After cooking, let the steaks rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. Using the same pan, cook the shrimp quickly—they are done when opaque and form a “C” shape. Finally, prepare the sauce in that same flavorful pan, scraping up any browned bits from the steak and shrimp for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and decadent dish pairs beautifully with sides that balance its intensity. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic parmesan risotto are classic choices to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. A crusty baguette is also perfect for mopping up every last drop of the creamy sauce. For beverages, consider a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the steak or a chilled Chardonnay to pair with the shrimp and cream sauce.
How-to Summary
Season and sear steaks to preferred doneness, then let rest. In the same pan, cook seasoned shrimp until pink and opaque. Prepare a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce in the pan, then assemble by plating the steak, drizzling with sauce, and topping with shrimp. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely. While ribeye and sirloin are excellent, filet mignon offers a tender, lean option, or a New York strip provides a great balance of flavor and tenderness. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.
2. How can I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Avoid overcooking. Shrimp cook very quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan immediately once done.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut cream can create a rich, though slightly sweet, sauce.
4. Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
Yes. You can season the steaks and shrimp and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. Have all sauce ingredients measured and ready. Cook everything fresh for the best texture.
5. My sauce broke or became grainy. What happened?
This usually occurs if the heat is too high, causing the cream to separate, or if the Parmesan cheese is added too quickly. Keep the heat at medium and add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the steak rest: Slicing immediately causes precious juices to run out. Always let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Crowding the pan: Cook steaks and shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing and avoid steaming.
- Overcooking the shrimp: They continue to cook slightly after removal. Err on the side of slightly underdone in the pan.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grate your cheese for a silky sauce.
- Not seasoning adequately: Season the steak and shrimp generously at every step for layers of flavor.
Conclusion
This steak and shrimp surf and turf with creamy sauce is an impressive yet approachable restaurant-quality meal. By mastering the timing, avoiding common pitfalls, and using the pan drippings to build a luxurious sauce, you create a harmonious dish where the richness of the steak, the sweetness of the shrimp, and the savory cream sauce elevate each other. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a special occasion dinner that is sure to delight any guest.