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Perfect Surf and Turf with Garlic Herb Butter

perfect surf and turf with garlic herb butter - featured image

A quick and easy surf and turf recipe featuring juicy steak and buttery garlic shrimp, perfect for special dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ribeye or filet mignon steak, about 1-inch thick
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for presentation)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
  • Optional: Fresh chives or additional herbs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter (10 minutes): In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended. Set aside or refrigerate if you want it firmer for slicing.
  2. Season the Steak (5 minutes): Pat your steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Heat the Pan (3 minutes): Place your cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it get shimmering hot but not smoking.
  4. Sear the Steak (8-10 minutes depending on thickness): Place the steak in the hot skillet and let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. Flip the steak and cook another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp about 130°F/54°C). Adjust time for your preferred doneness.
  5. Rest the Steak (5 minutes): Remove the steak from the pan and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest.
  6. Cook the Shrimp (5-7 minutes): In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  7. Finish with Garlic Herb Butter (2 minutes): Return the steak to the pan off the heat. Dollop the garlic herb butter over both the steak and shrimp, letting it melt luxuriously. Spoon some butter over the shrimp as well.
  8. Serve: Plate the steak and shrimp together, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat steak and shrimp dry before seasoning for best sear. Add garlic herb butter off the heat to avoid burning. Cook shrimp in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Let steak rest before slicing to retain juices. Garlic herb butter can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: surf and turf, garlic herb butter, steak and shrimp, easy dinner, special occasion meal, quick recipe