You know that feeling when you can’t decide between a juicy steak or some buttery shrimp? Why choose when you can have both? That’s the beauty of steak and shrimp recipes—they bring together the best of land and sea in one delicious bite. Whether you’re cooking up a fancy surf and turf dinner for date night or just craving something hearty and flavorful, this guide has you covered.
We’re talking garlic butter skillet steak and shrimp, grilled versions with that smoky goodness, healthy options, and even super quick 15-minute meals for busy nights. Plus, I’ll throw in some must-know cooking tips (because nobody wants rubbery shrimp or a dry steak). And if you’re wondering about the best seasonings, sauces, and side dishes—don’t worry, I gotcha!
So, grab your skillet, fire up that grill, or preheat your oven. Let’s dive into Part 1: An Introduction to Steak and Shrimp Recipes.
Part 1: Introduction to Steak and Shrimp Recipes
Why Steak and Shrimp is the Ultimate Surf and Turf Meal
There’s just something magical about a perfectly cooked steak paired with tender, juicy shrimp. It’s like they were made for each other—one rich and meaty, the other sweet and briny. Plus, the textures contrast in the best way possible. Crispy seared steak edges? Check. Buttery shrimp that practically melt in your mouth? Double check.
Beyond taste, steak and shrimp recipes fit any occasion. Want a fancy dinner? Go for a filet mignon with creamy garlic shrimp. Need something light? Toss grilled steak and shrimp on a fresh salad. Feeding a crowd? A big ol’ surf and turf platter will do the trick.
Popular Cooking Methods for Steak and Shrimp
Alright, let’s talk about how to cook this dream duo. Since shrimp cook in, like, 3 minutes flat, the trick is timing. Here are a few foolproof ways to get it right:
- Skillet (Cast Iron or Stainless Steel) – Best for quick weeknight meals. That golden-brown crust on the steak? Unmatched.
- Grill – If you love smoky flavors and grill marks, this is your move. Just don’t let those shrimp fall through the grates!
- Oven-Broiled – Works well for thick-cut steaks, but shrimp need to be added last-minute.
- Air Fryer – Yep, you can totally air-fry both. Steak gets crispy, shrimp stays juicy.
Best Steak and Shrimp Combinations
Not all steaks (or shrimp) are created equal. Some pair better together than others. Here are my top picks:
- Filet Mignon + Jumbo Shrimp – Fancy, tender, and straight-up restaurant quality.
- Ribeye + Garlic Butter Shrimp – Big flavors, big satisfaction.
- New York Strip + Cajun Shrimp – A little spice, a little char, a lot of deliciousness.
- Sirloin + Grilled Shrimp Skewers – Budget-friendly but still packed with flavor.
- Skirt Steak + Shrimp Stir Fry – Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights.
Pro Tip: Always pat your steak and shrimp dry before cooking. Extra moisture = no good sear. Nobody wants soggy surf and turf.
That’s the basics! Up next, we’re getting into Part 2: Classic Steak and Shrimp Recipes, where I’ll walk you through garlic butter skillet steak and shrimp, grilled steak and shrimp with herb butter, and more. Get ready for some seriously mouthwatering recipes! 🍽🔥
Part 2: Classic Steak and Shrimp Recipes
Sometimes, you just want that tried-and-true surf and turf flavor without any extra fuss. That’s where these classic steak and shrimp recipes come in. Think juicy, seared steak and buttery shrimp with simple yet bold flavors—because sometimes, less really is more.
Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and Shrimp
If you’re looking for a one-pan wonder, this is it. The steak gets a perfect crust while the shrimp soak up all that garlicky goodness. And the best part? You only need about 20 minutes from start to finish.
How to make it:
- Season your steak with salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika.
- Sear it in a hot skillet with a little oil—about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Remove the steak, lower the heat, and toss in butter, minced garlic, and shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Add the steak back, spoon the garlic butter on top, and serve.
Pro Tip: Let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing! This keeps it juicy.
Grilled Steak and Shrimp with Herb Butter
If you love smoky, charred flavors, grilling is the way to go. The trick is grilling the steak first and shrimp on skewers separately so they don’t overcook.
- Season the steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill it over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Skewer the shrimp, brush them with garlic butter, and grill for 2 minutes per side.
- Top everything with homemade herb butter (butter + parsley + lemon zest).
Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Garlic Shrimp
For date night, this filet mignon and shrimp combo will never fail you. The filet is tender and buttery, while the shrimp add a perfect briny bite. Cook it just like the garlic butter recipe, but use filet mignon for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Part 3: Healthy Steak and Shrimp Recipes
Just because a dish is rich and flavorful doesn’t mean it has to be heavy. These healthy steak and shrimp recipes are packed with protein and nutrients—without feeling like “diet food.”
Keto-Friendly Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry
Love bold flavors but want to keep things low-carb? A steak and shrimp stir fry is the way to go. Instead of rice or noodles, we’re tossing everything with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Slice sirloin steak thinly and season with soy sauce and garlic.
- Sear it in a hot pan, then remove.
- Cook the shrimp with sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss everything together with your veggie base and a splash of coconut aminos.
Low-Carb Grilled Surf and Turf Salad
Who says salads are boring? This one is loaded with grilled steak and shrimp, plus a tangy dressing that ties it all together.
- Base: Mixed greens, arugula, or spinach.
- Protein: Grilled steak (sirloin or strip) and shrimp.
- Extras: Cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
- Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
Steak and Shrimp with Roasted Vegetables
If you want a hearty, balanced meal, this one’s perfect. The key is roasting your veggies while cooking your steak and shrimp.
- Roast bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Cook your steak and shrimp (grilled or pan-seared).
- Toss everything together with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
That’s it for the healthy eats! Next up, we’ll dive into quick and easy steak and shrimp recipes—because some nights, you just want a great meal without spending forever in the kitchen. Stay tuned! 😋🔥
No highly relevant internal links were found on AmazingERecipes.com for steak and shrimp recipes. However, if you’re looking for more delicious beef recipes, check out their guide on how to cook beef flank steak!
Part 4: Quick and Easy Steak and Shrimp Recipes
Let’s be real—some nights, you just don’t have the energy for an elaborate meal. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring food. These quick and easy steak and shrimp recipes come together in 30 minutes or less, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
One-Pan Steak and Shrimp with Garlic Butter
Fewer dishes? Yes, please! This one-pan meal is perfect for when you want something fancy without the cleanup.
- Heat a skillet with olive oil and sear your steak for about 4 minutes per side.
- Remove the steak and toss shrimp in the same pan with garlic butter.
- Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes, then return the steak and let it all come together.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or roasted veggies.
Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for extra brightness!
15-Minute Skillet Steak and Shrimp
Short on time? This is your go-to weeknight surf and turf.
- Slice steak into strips for faster cooking.
- Cook steak in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side, then remove.
- Add shrimp, garlic, and butter, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Return steak, toss everything together, and serve.
Air Fryer Steak and Shrimp
Yes, you can totally air-fry surf and turf—and it’s shockingly good.
- Season steak, air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes.
- Add shrimp with butter and garlic, and cook for 4 more minutes.
- Serve with a quick avocado salsa or a side salad.
Part 5: Gourmet Steak and Shrimp Recipes
Sometimes, you want to wow your guests (or just treat yourself). These gourmet steak and shrimp recipes take things up a notch—without needing a culinary degree.
Steak and Creamy Garlic Shrimp
This one is rich, indulgent, and restaurant-worthy—but totally doable at home.
- Sear your steak (filet mignon works best). Set it aside.
- In the same pan, sauté shrimp with butter, garlic, and heavy cream.
- Add parmesan, let it thicken, then spoon the creamy shrimp sauce over the steak.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or garlic bread.
Surf and Turf with Red Wine Sauce
A red wine reduction makes this feel extra fancy.
- Sear your steak in a pan and set it aside to rest.
- In the same pan, add red wine, beef broth, and shallots. Reduce until thick.
- Sauté shrimp with butter and garlic, then drizzle with the red wine sauce.
Pro Tip: Pair this with roasted asparagus or truffle mashed potatoes for the ultimate dinner.
Filet Mignon and Lobster-Style Shrimp
Want that steak and lobster vibe without the lobster? This recipe mimics the flavor using shrimp!
- Cook shrimp in butter, lemon juice, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning.
- Sear a filet mignon and top it with the “lobster-style” shrimp.
- Serve with a side of garlic butter for dipping.
That’s it for the quick and gourmet recipes! Up next: the best seasonings and marinades for steak and shrimp—because great ingredients deserve big, bold flavors.
Part 6: Best Seasonings and Marinades for Steak and Shrimp
You can have the best cut of steak and the freshest shrimp, but without the right seasoning, they’ll taste… well, kinda bland. That’s why good steak and shrimp recipes always start with bold flavors. Whether you like classic garlic butter or something with a spicy kick, here are a few ways to season your surf and turf just right.
Classic Steak Marinades
A great marinade doesn’t just add flavor—it makes your steak juicier and more tender. Here are a few easy ones to try:
- Garlic Herb Marinade: Olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
- Soy Sauce Marinade: Soy sauce, Worcestershire, honey, and black pepper.
- Spicy Cajun Marinade: Olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano.
How to use: Marinate your steak for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 24 hours.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Seasoning
Shrimp cook quickly, so instead of marinating, you’ll want to season them right before cooking. Some go-to spice blends include:
- Classic Garlic Butter: Melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Cajun Style: Paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Lemon Herb: Olive oil, lemon zest, parsley, and cracked black pepper.
Pro Tip: A little seasoning goes a long way with shrimp—don’t overdo it!
Part 7: Side Dishes That Pair Well with Steak and Shrimp
A great surf and turf meal isn’t just about the steak and shrimp—it’s about the whole plate. The right sides can balance the flavors, add texture, and make your meal feel complete. Here are some of the best side dishes for steak and shrimp recipes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic with steak and shrimp. To make them extra special:
- Boil Yukon Gold potatoes until soft.
- Mash with butter, cream, and roasted garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper, then top with fresh chives.
Shortcut: Use a hand mixer for ultra-smooth mashed potatoes.
Grilled Asparagus and Lemon Butter Rice
Want something lighter? Try a mix of grilled asparagus and fluffy rice.
- Asparagus: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill for 3-5 minutes.
- Lemon Butter Rice: Cook rice, then stir in butter, lemon juice, and parsley for fresh flavor.
Creamy Parmesan Risotto
If you’re feeling fancy, risotto is worth the effort. The rich, cheesy flavor pairs perfectly with steak and shrimp.
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter.
- Stir in arborio rice and slowly add warm broth.
- Finish with parmesan cheese for a creamy, dreamy texture.
That’s it for seasonings and sides! Next, we’ll go over cooking tips and common mistakes to avoid—because nobody wants overcooked shrimp or tough steak.
Part 8: Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best steak and shrimp recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Overcooked shrimp? Tough steak? Nobody wants that. But don’t worry—I’ve got some simple tips to make sure your surf and turf turns out perfect every time.
How to Cook the Perfect Steak
Steak is all about the sear and the resting time. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Let it come to room temp – A cold steak won’t cook evenly.
- Pat it dry – Helps get that crispy crust.
- Use high heat – Whether it’s a grill or skillet, a hot surface is key.
- Rest after cooking – Letting your steak sit for 5-10 minutes keeps it juicy.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer—130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
Getting the Right Texture for Shrimp
Shrimp cook fast—like, crazy fast. If you overdo it, they’ll turn rubbery. Here’s how to nail it:
- Medium-high heat is best.
- Only cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink.
- Remove from heat immediately—they’ll keep cooking a bit from residual heat.
Common Surf and Turf Mistakes
- Cooking shrimp and steak together – Shrimp cook way faster. Do them separately!
- Skipping the seasoning – Both steak and shrimp need a flavor boost.
- Not using butter – Garlic butter is a game-changer for surf and turf.
Part 9: FAQs – Answering Popular Questions
Got questions about making the best steak and shrimp recipes? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some of the most common ones.
What is the best cut of steak for surf and turf?
Filet mignon is the top choice because it’s tender and pairs well with shrimp. But ribeye, New York strip, and sirloin also work great!
Can I cook steak and shrimp together in the same pan?
Technically, yes—but it’s not the best idea. Shrimp cook much faster than steak, so they’ll likely overcook while the steak finishes. It’s better to cook them separately and combine at the end.
How do I make sure my shrimp isn’t rubbery?
Don’t overcook them! Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes per side. The second they turn pink and opaque, take them off the heat.
What sauces go best with steak and shrimp?
Garlic butter is a classic, but chimichurri, lemon herb sauce, or Cajun butter also taste amazing.
How can I meal prep steak and shrimp?
- Cook steak ahead of time and store it whole—slicing it too soon makes it dry.
- Shrimp are best cooked fresh, but you can season them ahead of time.
- Store everything in an airtight container and reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
