Name: Surf & Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each); 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; Salt & black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper (or more to taste); Salt, to taste

Surf & Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a luxurious, restaurant-quality dish you can easily recreate at home. This mouthwatering plate features perfectly seared filet mignon and tender shrimp, all drizzled in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Topped with fresh parsley, this dish is a perfect balance of savory and decadent flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an indulgent dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Surf & Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Surf & Turf dish combines the best of both worlds – the rich, buttery flavor of filet mignon paired with succulent shrimp, all enveloped in a creamy, peppery garlic sauce. The tender steaks and shrimp are complemented by the richness of the sauce, making every bite melt in your mouth. The quick cooking time and ease of preparation ensure that you can enjoy a steakhouse-quality meal at home in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re a steak lover or a seafood fan, this recipe brings the perfect harmony of flavors to the table.

Ingredients

For the Surf & Turf:

2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chicken or beef broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 tsp cracked black pepper (or more to taste)
Salt, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook Filet: Season steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side (for medium-rare). Let the steaks rest before serving.
Cook Shrimp: In the same pan, sear shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until opaque and golden. Set aside.
Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the pan, sautéing for about 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream and broth, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper, stirring until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Assemble: Plate the filet mignon steaks, top with shrimp, and generously pour the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Enjoy your elegant Surf & Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce, a dish that brings the flavors of a fine dining experience straight to your kitchen!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Grilled Version: Grill the filet mignon and shrimp instead of pan-searing them for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist on the classic surf & turf.
Add More Veggies: Serve the surf & turf with roasted vegetables or a side of asparagus to enhance the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce for an extra bit of heat.
Lobster Tail: Swap shrimp for lobster tail to elevate the luxury of this dish even further.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If reheating in a pan, add a splash of cream to help restore the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, you can use other cuts of steak such as ribeye or sirloin, but filet mignon offers the most tender and luxurious texture for this dish.

2. Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

3. How do I get the perfect medium-rare steak?

Sear the steak on each side for 3-4 minutes, then allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will give you a medium-rare cook, but adjust the searing time for your preferred doneness.

4. Can I substitute the shrimp for another seafood?

Yes, you can use scallops, lobster, or even fish fillets in place of shrimp for a variation on this dish.

5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Be sure to cook the shrimp for no more than 1-2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and golden. Overcooking can make shrimp tough.

6. Can I use store-bought garlic sauce instead of making my own?

While homemade creamy garlic sauce is preferred for its fresh and rich flavor, you can use a store-bought garlic sauce in a pinch.

7. How do I know when my filet mignon is cooked to medium-rare?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Alternatively, you can press on the steak and check for softness—medium-rare should be soft but with slight resistance.

8. Can I use a different cheese in the creamy garlic sauce?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère, but Parmesan provides a nice nutty flavor that complements the dish well.

9. Can I make this recipe without butter?

While butter adds richness to the dish, you can substitute it with olive oil if you’d prefer a dairy-free version.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce to elevate the heat and spice up the flavors.

Conclusion

Surf & Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce brings the luxury of a steakhouse meal straight to your kitchen. With perfectly cooked filet mignon and shrimp, all topped off with a velvety garlic sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for rich and decadent flavors. It’s easy to prepare yet indulgent enough for special occasions. Enjoy this delicious recipe for a true culinary treat!