Surf and Turf Recipes Easy

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover the perfect balance of land and sea with these easy Surf and Turf recipes that are sure to impress.

Lucinda Price

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-02T03:25:09.509Z

Surf and Turf is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of steak with the delicate taste of seafood. This easy version brings together tender cuts of meat and succulent shrimp or lobster, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The perfect combination of juicy steak and fresh seafood
  • Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
  • Impress your guests with a gourmet meal at home

The Art of Surf and Turf

Surf and Turf is a culinary delight that combines the robust flavors of land-based protein with the delicate essence of seafood. This dish offers a balanced experience that appeals to a variety of palates, making it a popular choice for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. The combination of juicy steak and succulent shrimp not only tantalizes your taste buds but also elevates the dining experience to a gourmet level.

Creating the perfect Surf and Turf requires a bit of finesse in preparation, but these easy recipes simplify the process without sacrificing flavor. Whether you choose ribeye steak, filet mignon, or any other cut, it's crucial to cook it to perfection. Pairing your meat with fresh, well-seasoned seafood like shrimp adds complexity and richness to the dish, ensuring every bite is a delightful harmony of flavors.

Quick and Convenient Cooking

In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time to prepare a gourmet meal can be challenging. However, this Surf and Turf recipe stands out for its quick preparation and cooking time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking steps, you can whip up an impressive meal in no time. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy something special without the fuss.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, swap the shrimp for scallops or use a different cut of steak based on what you have on hand. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy a delicious Surf and Turf meal that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Impressing Your Guests

Want to impress your guests at your next dinner party? Serve them this elegant Surf and Turf dish, and watch their faces light up with delight. The combination of perfectly cooked steak and tender shrimp creates a visually stunning presentation that will make your meal feel like a five-star dining experience. Pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Additionally, the simplicity of this recipe allows you to focus on your guests rather than being tethered to the kitchen. With quick cooking times and minimal cleanup, you can engage in conversation and enjoy the evening without the stress of complicated cooking processes. Your guests will be talking about your culinary prowess long after the plates are cleared.

Ingredients

For the Steak

  • 2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Shrimp

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to source fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Steak

Season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Remove from skillet and let rest.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Slice the steak and plate it alongside the shrimp. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top.

Enjoy your delicious Surf and Turf meal!

Tips for Perfect Steak

To achieve the perfect steak, it's essential to let your meat come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures an even cook throughout. Season generously with salt and pepper just before placing it in the hot skillet, as this enhances the flavor and creates a delicious crust. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bite.

Using a meat thermometer can be a game-changer for cooking steak. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well. This ensures your steak is cooked to your liking every time, taking the guesswork out of the process.

Shrimp Cooking Secrets

When cooking shrimp, timing is everything. Overcooking can turn these delicate morsels rubbery, so watch them closely as they transition from translucent to pink. This process usually takes just a few minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. A quick sauté in butter and garlic enhances the flavor while keeping the shrimp tender and juicy.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in lemon juice and spices for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses the shrimp with zest but also helps to tenderize them. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create variations that suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Surf and Turf dish with complementary sides can elevate the entire meal. Consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or grilled asparagus for a well-rounded plate. A light, citrus-based sauce or chimichurri can also enhance the flavors of both the steak and shrimp, adding brightness to the dish.

Don’t forget about drinks! A robust red wine pairs beautifully with steak, while a crisp white wine or a light beer complements the shrimp. This thoughtful pairing can enhance your dining experience, making it memorable for both you and your guests.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of seafood?

Yes, feel free to substitute shrimp with lobster, scallops, or your preferred seafood.

→ What sides pair well with Surf and Turf?

Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad make great accompaniments.

→ How can I ensure my steak is cooked perfectly?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the steak is best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp in advance and reheat before serving.

Surf and Turf Recipes Easy

Discover the perfect balance of land and sea with these easy Surf and Turf recipes that are sure to impress.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Lucinda Price

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Steak

  1. 2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)
  2. Salt and pepper to taste
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Shrimp

  1. 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 2 tablespoons butter
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 lemon, juiced
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Remove from skillet and let rest.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.

Step 03

Slice the steak and plate it alongside the shrimp. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 40g