Description
Surf & Turf Pasta with Shrimp and Steak
Ingredients:
8 oz linguine pasta
2 small steaks (such as ribeye or sirloin)
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the linguine according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the steak: Season the steaks with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side (or until your desired level of doneness). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
Make the creamy sauce: In the same pan, lower the heat and melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. Add the shrimp and steak on top, then sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve: Plate the pasta, top with the steak and shrimp, and enjoy your indulgent meal!
This surf and turf pasta is a perfect blend of flavors for a truly satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by gathering all ingredients. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil for the pasta. As it heats, pat the steaks dry and season liberally with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steaks and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for a full 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
While the steak rests, add the linguine to the boiling water and cook according to package directions for al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. In the same skillet used for the steak, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the steak and shrimp. A side of crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a fresh contrast, serve with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. A glass of full-bodied Chardonnay or a light Cabernet Sauvignon complements the surf and turf flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
To make Surf & Turf Pasta: 1) Boil and drain linguine. 2) Season and pan-sear steaks; rest and slice. 3) Sauté shrimp in the same pan. 4) In that pan, make a creamy garlic sauce with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and lemon juice. 5) Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. 6) Top pasta with sliced steak and shrimp, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, sirloin, strip steak, or filet mignon work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
How can I prevent the cream sauce from breaking? Keep the heat low after adding the cream and stir constantly. Do not let it come to a rapid boil.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. You can prep components (slice steak, peel shrimp) ahead, but cook and combine just before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? A half-and-half and cream cheese blend can substitute, but the sauce will be less rich and thicken faster.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked? Shrimp are done when they form a tight “C” shape and are opaque pink/white throughout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery.
- Slicing the steak immediately after cooking, which releases precious juices. Always let it rest.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan in the sauce, as it can clump and not melt smoothly.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently, as this is the primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Crowding the skillet when cooking the steak, which steams it instead of creating a proper sear.
Conclusion
This Surf & Turf Pasta combines the luxurious elements of a restaurant meal into a surprisingly achievable home-cooked dish. The key lies in proper sequencing—cooking the protein, utilizing one pan for layered flavor, and crafting a simple, velvety sauce. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create an impressively flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to become a special occasion favorite. Enjoy the delicious fusion of land and sea in every bite.