If you’re searching for a dinner that feels both indulgent and incredibly satisfying, then you’ve just hit the jackpot with this Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe. This dish perfectly marries the richness of a juicy, seared steak with the garlicky, buttery goodness of shrimp scampi, creating a surf and turf experience that’s absolutely crave-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to something spectacular, this recipe is straightforward yet packed with bold flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is key to nailing this dish. Each item is straightforward but plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant flavors and textures that make this steak and shrimp pairing so irresistible.
- 2 boneless ribeye or strip steaks (about 1 inch thick): Choose well-marbled cuts for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the steak and shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a beautiful sear and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Opt for sizeable shrimp so they stand out alongside the steak.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This creates that decadent, silky sauce that defines scampi.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses deep flavor and aromatic charm.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: This liquid component deglazes the pan, lifting every tasty bit off the bottom.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness, adding an irresistible freshness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- Lemon wedges for serving: A zesty garnish to squeeze over the finished plate.
How to Make Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Season and Sear the Steaks
Start by giving your steaks a generous seasoning of salt and pepper on both sides—don’t be shy here, as it forms the foundation of flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side to reach a beautiful medium-rare. Remember, the key is a good crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Once cooked, set the steaks aside on a plate and cover loosely with foil so they rest and retain their juices.
Step 2: Build Your Scampi Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, then add the butter directly into the same skillet used for the steaks. As it melts, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing just for about 30 seconds—enough to release that gorgeous aroma without burning. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This will lift all those wonderful browned bits from the pan, creating an intensely flavorful base for the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp in the Scampi Sauce
Next, nestle your shrimp into the bubbling sauce, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely pink and become opaque—be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll get rubbery fast. The shrimp will soak up all that buttery, garlicky goodness, making every bite simply heavenly.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Lemon and Parsley
Just before serving, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley into the skillet. This final step adds a burst of brightness and beautiful color that perfectly complements the rich steak and shrimp combination. Slice the rested steaks, plate them, and top with the succulent shrimp and that irresistible pan sauce.
How to Serve Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Lemon wedges are a classic and vital garnish here, adding that extra zing of citrus to balance the buttery sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the plate visually but also introduces a fresh, herbal contrast that lifts the entire dish.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with creamy mashed potatoes, cooked al dente pasta, or fluffy rice to soak up every drop of the luscious scampi sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad provide a nice textural contrast and a refreshing flavor balance to the indulgence of steak and shrimp.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, arrange the sliced steak fan-style on the plate and drape the shrimp scampi over the top like a couture finishing touch. You can also serve it over linguine tossed lightly in olive oil and garlic for a surf and turf pasta extravaganza that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the steak and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their best texture and flavor. Use within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
While freezing cooked shrimp can sometimes alter texture, you can freeze both the cooked steaks and shrimp scampi sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist and tender—avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the steak tough.
FAQs
Can I use different cuts of steak?
Absolutely! While ribeye and strip steaks are ideal for their marbling and flavor, you can also use filet mignon or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and your preferred doneness.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the scampi sauce?
Not at all. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, chicken broth is a fantastic substitute that still delivers rich flavor. You can also try vegetable broth for a lighter option.
How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
The shrimp will turn from translucent gray to pink and become opaque. They should feel firm but not rubbery. Cooking them about 2-3 minutes per side usually does the trick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can marinate the steaks a few hours ahead to deepen flavor, but it’s best to cook the steaks and shrimp fresh to keep textures perfect. You can prepare the garlic butter sauce beforehand to streamline cooking.
What sides pair best with the Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe?
Creamy mashed potatoes, linguine tossed in olive oil, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans all make excellent companions to this indulgent dish.
Final Thoughts
This Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe is an absolute showstopper that feels both luxurious and surprisingly simple to make. It’s perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this combination has become one of my all-time favorites. Give it a go—you deserve this kind of deliciousness on a plate!
Print
Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Steak and Shrimp Scampi recipe combines tender, juicy ribeye steaks with succulent garlic butter shrimp, all cooked quickly on the stovetop to create an impressive and flavorful surf and turf main course. Perfect for a special dinner, this dish features a zesty lemon-parsley pan sauce that elevates both the steak and shrimp flavors.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 boneless ribeye or strip steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time for your preferred doneness. This develops a flavorful crust while keeping the interior tender.
- Rest the Steaks: Transfer the steaks to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
- Prepare the Scampi Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re perfectly cooked.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley to brighten the sauce and add freshness.
- Serve: Slice the rested steaks against the grain and plate them. Spoon the shrimp scampi and pan sauce over the steak slices. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately for a delicious surf and turf meal.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to make it a more substantial meal.
- For extra flavor, marinate the steaks ahead of time with garlic and herbs before cooking.
- Using jumbo shrimp enhances the presentation and offers a more dramatic look.
