Pin it This dish combines seared ribeye steaks and juicy shrimp, both seasoned with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. A luscious garlic herb butter adds rich flavor, while lemon wedges and parsley garnish brighten the plate. Cook steaks to medium-rare and quickly sear shrimp for tender, flavorful protein. Serve with your choice of sides to complete this elegant surf and turf dinner.
My anniversary dinner plans almost fell through until I remembered my father-in-law's trick for restaurant-quality surf and turf at home. Something about that sizzling sound of steak hitting a hot skillet while the garlic butter melts into the shrimp just feels like celebration. Now it's become our go-to for life's big moments and occasional Tuesday nights when we need a little extra joy on the table.
Last Valentine's Day, I made this for the first time and accidentally set off the smoke alarm, but the way my husband's eyes lit up when he took that first bite made all the chaos worth it. There's something undeniably romantic about cooking steak and shrimp together, the way the aromas fill the kitchen and the butter sizzle becomes its own kind of music.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks: The ribeye's marbling keeps everything juicy while developing that gorgeous crust we all crave
- 8 large shrimp: Keep those tails on for the prettiest presentation and easy handling while they sear
- Olive oil: Your foundation for even cooking and that beautiful golden sear on both proteins
- Kosher salt: The only seasoning you truly need, but be generous with it for restaurant-quality results
- Freshly ground black pepper: Grind it right before cooking for those aromatic oils that make all the difference
- Smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that adds subtle depth without overwhelming the natural flavors
- Unsalted butter: Soften it completely so it melts instantly over that hot steak and shrimp
- Garlic: Fresh minced, never jarred, because you deserve that sharp aromatic punch
- Fresh parsley: More than just garnish, it brings a bright herbal note that cuts through all that richness
- Lemon juice and zest: The acid that balances the butter and makes each component sing
Instructions
- Let the steaks relax:
- Pull those beautiful ribeyes from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking, because room-temperature meat sears evenly and stays tender throughout
- Season with confidence:
- Pat everything completely dry with paper towels, then rub the steaks with half the olive oil and all the seasonings, giving the shrimp the same treatment with the remaining oil and a light pinch of salt and pepper
- Make your butter magic:
- Mash the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and zest until everything is beautifully incorporated, then set it aside to let the flavors meld
- Get that pan screaming hot:
- Heat your largest skillet over high heat until it's practically glowing, then carefully lay in those seasoned steaks and let them develop a dark crust for 3-4 minutes before flipping
- Seize the moment:
- Cook the second side just as long, then move the steaks to a plate and tent them with foil while they rest, which is absolutely non-negotiable for juicy meat
- Give the shrimp their turn:
- Add a splash more oil to the same pan and sear those gorgeous shrimp for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl slightly
- Bring it all together:
- Plate each steak with a generous dollop of that garlic herb butter melting over the top, arrange the shrimp alongside, and finish with lemon wedges and a fresh sprinkle of parsley
Pin it This recipe has seen us through promotions, anniversaries, and those random nights when we just needed to feel fancy in sweatpants. Something about plating steak and shrimp together transforms an ordinary Tuesday into something worth celebrating.
Wine Pairing Magic
A crisp Chardonnay works beautifully with the shrimp, while a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir complements the steak without overpowering the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Side Dish Adventures
Roasted potatoes with rosemary create a perfect earthy counterpoint, while steamed asparagus or green beans add freshness and color to the plate.
Making It Yours
Swap ribeye for filet mignon if you prefer leaner cuts, or try New York strip for a beefier flavor profile. The cooking method stays the same, so you can confidently use whatever looks best at your butcher counter.
- Add a splash of white wine to the pan after cooking the shrimp for an instant pan sauce
- Experiment with compound butter variations like adding chopped shallots or fresh thyme
- Keep a meat thermometer handy to nail your preferred level of doneness every single time
Pin it Theres something remarkably satisfying about creating a dish that feels so luxurious in your own kitchen, and watching someone take that first bite never gets old.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the perfect sear on the steak?
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Heat a large skillet or grill pan over high heat and cook steaks for 3-4 minutes per side to reach medium-rare while developing a flavorful crust.
- → How should shrimp be prepared for best texture?
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Pat shrimp dry before cooking and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque to avoid rubberiness.
- → What is the purpose of the garlic herb butter?
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The garlic herb butter enhances both steak and shrimp with a creamy, savory finish, adding depth and brightness through fresh parsley and lemon.
- → Can I substitute the steak cut with another type?
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Yes, ribeye can be swapped for filet mignon or New York strip depending on preference, maintaining similar thickness for proper cooking.
- → Are there any suggested side dishes to accompany this meal?
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Roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables pair well, complementing the rich proteins without overpowering the flavors.
