Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Are you ready for an incredibly delicious dining experience that you can whip up in just 30 minutes? This Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce recipe is not only irresistible but also incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. You’ll absolutely love how the tender ribeye steaks and succulent shrimp come together with rich and flavorful garlic butter to create a dish that tastes just like it came from a high-end restaurant kitchen. In this article, we’ll guide you through every step, share secrets from the pros, and offer tips to customize this delightful meal to suit your taste.
Recipe Origin & Cultural Context
The fusion of steak and shrimp isn’t just a culinary whim—it has deep roots in both casual and formal dining. The tradition of combining surf and turf has been around for decades in America and often represents a special occasion meal. Many families have their own cherished recipes for steak and shrimp, passed down through generations. My own experience with this dish comes from many family dinners where my father would fire up the grill, pairing perfectly sautéed shrimp with juicy steaks marinated in homemade blends.
What makes this version special is the simplicity and speed; you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it’s versatile—appropriate for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. Regional variations, from garlic-infused sauces in Italian cooking to spicy marinades in southern cuisine, can inspire your own twist on this classic.
Why This Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is a Game-Changer
This Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce recipe is a game-changer for several compelling reasons:
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⚡ Lightning Fast: With only 10 minutes of prep time and another 10-15 minutes for cooking, you’ll have this delectable dish ready in under 30 minutes!
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💰 Budget-Friendly: Using ribeye steaks and shrimp, the average cost for this meal is reasonable, especially considering you can often find shrimp on sale. For about $20, you can feed a family of four.
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👨👩👧 Family Approved: Kids often love shrimp and steak. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding favorite vegetables and even some noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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🥗 Nutritiously Delicious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish provides a hearty meal that’s also nutritious.
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🔄 Infinitely Customizable: Whether you want to spice it up with a dash of cayenne or add fresh herbs, the options are endless.
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📦 Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients are likely already in your pantry!
Complete Ingredient Breakdown
Essential Ingredients
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Ribeye Steaks: Known for their marbling and flavor, ribeye steaks make a perfect pair with shrimp. If you’re looking for a leaner cut, sirloin or filet mignon would also work well.
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Shrimp: Use large or extra-large shrimp for a satisfying bite. Fresh is always best, but frozen shrimp work wonderfully too.
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Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich sauce; using unsalted allows you to control the salt level effectively.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds bold flavor—don’t skimp on this!
Flavor Enhancers
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Olive Oil: Use to sear the steaks and contribute additional flavor.
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Parsley: Fresh herbs add color and brightness to the final dish.
Smart Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitute |
|—————————|——————————–|
| Ribeye Steaks | Sirloin or Flank Steak |
| Shrimp | Chicken breast, cubed |
| Unsalted Butter | Olive oil or margarine |
| Fresh Parsley | Chives or cilantro |
Shopping and Storage Tips
When selecting shrimp, look for shiny, translucent flesh that should smell fresh, not fishy. For storage, keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Required Equipment & Tools
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Large Skillet: For cooking both the steak and shrimp—cast iron works wonderfully for searing.
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Tongs: Essential for turning your steaks without losing juices.
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Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing your steaks after they’ve rested.
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Measuring Spoon: For precision in your ingredient measurements.
Feel free to use a non-stick pan as a budget alternative if you don’t have a cast iron skillet.
Foolproof Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients (5 minutes)
Start by seasoning your ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Pro tip: Let the steaks sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes for even cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks (10 minutes)
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time for your desired doneness.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet, cover them loosely with foil, and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter (5 minutes)
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Let the butter melt and then add in 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pro tip: Don’t let the garlic burn, as it will turn bitter.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp (3-4 minutes)
- Add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet.
- Cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Step 5: Serve (2 minutes)
- Slice the rested ribeye steaks and arrange them on plates.
- Top with the garlic butter shrimp and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.
Professional Chef Secrets
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Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness; aim for 135°F for medium-rare.
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Timing Strategies: Begin your garlic and shrimp after the steaks are cooking; they will time out perfectly.
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Presentation Techniques: Serve the steak on a warm plate to prevent it from cooling quickly.
Creative Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to experiment with this Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce recipe:
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Seasonal Variations: Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
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Dietary Modifications: For a keto-friendly version, serve over zoodles instead of pasta to keep carbs low.
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Leftover Transformations: Use leftovers in a taco, adding a slaw for crunch and freshness.
Nutritional Breakdown & Health Benefits
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 37g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
Additional Health Info
The garlic used offers anti-inflammatory properties, and the protein content from the steak and shrimp supports muscle health, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep
Proper Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Best Containers: Glass containers are excellent for reheating without any leaching of materials.
Reheating Techniques: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture of the shrimp and steak—avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Meal Prep Strategies: Cook the steak and shrimp on meal prep day and pair them with salads or other sides throughout the week for easy meals.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Texture Problems: If your steak is tough, it may have been overcooked or not allowed to rest. Conversely, if the shrimp are rubbery, they were likely cooked too long.
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Flavor Imbalances: If the garlic butter sauce is too salty, balance it out with a touch of lemon juice.
Comprehensive FAQ Section
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with margarine or olive oil and skip the garnish if needed.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
How far in advance can I prepare this?
You can prepare the steaks and shrimp separately a day in advance, then combine when ready to serve.
Related Recipes & Pairings
Consider pairing this steak and shrimp dish with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy sides to complement the richness of the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies finished in olive oil and garlic.
- A fresh salad: Light and crisp salads can enhance the overall dining experience.
Recipe Card & Printable Version
Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Cook steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Slice steaks, top with shrimp, and garnish with parsley.
Conclusion & Reader Engagement
In conclusion, this Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce recipe is an incredible way to bring restaurant-quality dining to your home effortlessly. With the flexibility to adapt and make it your own, you’ll want this dish in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try, and feel free to drop a comment below with your results!
Share your culinary creations on Instagram and tag me @yourhandle! Save this recipe for your next dinner party, and don’t forget to share with fellow Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce lovers. Pin this for easy access later!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
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Steak & Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
An incredibly delicious Steak & Shrimp dish in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides and let sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove from skillet, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add unsalted butter and let melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Slice the rested ribeye steaks, arrange them on plates, top with garlic butter shrimp, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness; aim for 135°F for medium-rare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 150mg