Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Simple, Elegant Meal

Treat yourself to a delicious surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce—a perfect mix of juicy steak and tender shrimp, tied together with a smooth, flavorful garlic cream sauce. This dish feels special but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night at home. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just craving something hearty yet refined, this recipe delivers big on taste without needing hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

This recipe serves two and takes about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need and how to put it together.

Ingredients

• For the steak and shrimp:
  • 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (6-8 oz each, about 1-inch thick)
  • 8-10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for shrimp)
• For the creamy garlic sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet (cast iron works great)
• Tongs
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer (optional, for steak doneness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the steak and shrimp: Pat the steaks and shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. For the shrimp, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika for a little extra flavor. Set aside.
2. Cook the steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When it’s hot (a drop of water should sizzle), add the steaks. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F internal temperature). Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan in the last minute, spooning it over the steaks for extra richness. Remove the steaks, cover with foil, and let them rest.
3. Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly curled. Don’t overcook—they’ll finish in the sauce later. Set the shrimp aside.
4. Make the creamy garlic sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Combine and finish: Add the shrimp to the sauce, stirring gently to coat. Let them warm through for 1-2 minutes. Slice the rested steaks against the grain for tenderness.
6. Serve: Plate the sliced steak and shrimp, then spoon the creamy garlic sauce over both. Sprinkle with parsley for a fresh touch, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Surf and Turf

• Choose quality ingredients: Fresh shrimp and a good cut of steak (like ribeye or sirloin) make a big difference. Look for bright, firm shrimp and steaks with some marbling for juiciness.
• Don’t skip the rest: Letting the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking keeps it juicy. Cutting into it too soon lets the juices escape.
• Control the heat: For the sauce, keep the heat medium to low. High heat can cause the cream to curdle or the garlic to burn, which affects the flavor.
• Customize the doneness: Use a meat thermometer for precise steak doneness—135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, or 150°F for medium-well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
• Make it quick: Prep the garlic and parsley while the steak cooks to save time. You can also buy pre-peeled shrimp to cut down on prep.
• Thicken the sauce if needed: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer or add a little more Parmesan. If it’s too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk or cream.

How to Serve Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

This dish shines when paired with simple sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the garlic sauce beautifully. Add a touch of butter and chives for extra flavor.
• Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, or carrots roasted with olive oil and salt add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Crusty bread: A slice of warm baguette or sourdough is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
• Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Presentation: For a restaurant-style look, fan out the sliced steak on the plate, arrange the shrimp on top or beside it, and drizzle the sauce generously. A sprinkle of parsley or a lemon wedge adds a pop of color.

Serve this meal on warm plates to keep everything hot. Pair it with a glass of white wine (like Chardonnay) for the shrimp or red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon) for the steak to elevate the experience.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the steak, shrimp, and sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.
• Reheating: Reheat the steak and shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Warm the sauce in a small saucepan, stirring until smooth. Add a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate, and the shrimp can become rubbery.

Why This Recipe Works

This surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce is a winner because it balances bold flavors with simple steps. The steak brings hearty, savory depth, the shrimp adds a delicate sweetness, and the garlic cream sauce ties it all together with its rich, velvety texture. It’s versatile enough for a special occasion but quick enough for a busy evening. Plus, you can tweak it to your taste—add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swap the shrimp for scallops for a twist.

Enjoy this dish as a way to bring a touch of elegance to your table without the stress. It’s comfort food with a gourmet edge, perfect for sharing with someone special or savoring solo.