Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the epitome of indulgence, combining the best of land and sea in one irresistible dish. This recipe marries tender, juicy steak with succulent, perfectly cooked seafood, all enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. It’s a dish that exudes sophistication yet is surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving an upscale meal, Surf and Turf is sure to impress.

The creamy garlic sauce is the star of the show, complementing the bold flavors of the steak and seafood. The combination of garlic, butter, cream, and a splash of white wine creates a velvety sauce that enhances every bite. The steak, cooked to your desired level of doneness, pairs beautifully with the tender lobster tail or shrimp, making this meal the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

This guide will walk you through each step of creating the perfect Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce. From selecting the right cuts of meat to making the luscious sauce, we’ll ensure you achieve a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Luxurious and Flavorful: The combination of steak and seafood, paired with a rich garlic sauce, makes for a decadent meal that’s full of flavor.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a holiday celebration, this dish will make any meal feel like an event.
• Customizable Protein Options: While the classic Surf and Turf typically pairs steak with lobster, you can easily substitute the lobster with shrimp, scallops, or even crab depending on your preferences.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce is everything. It’s smooth, flavorful, and enhances the natural taste of both the steak and seafood.
• Easy to Make at Home: Despite its upscale reputation, Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce can be prepared with ease. With the right ingredients and a few simple techniques, you’ll be able to make a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 2 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 800-900 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 800-900 kcal
• Fat: 45-50g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 60g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Surf and Turf:

• 2 ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut of beef), 6-8 oz each
• 2 lobster tails (or 6-8 large shrimp)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup white wine (preferably dry, such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

While this dish doesn’t require any specialized equipment, a few kitchen tools will help you achieve the best results:

1. Heavy Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: For searing the steaks and cooking the lobster or shrimp, a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal. It allows for even heat distribution and creates a beautiful crust on the steak.
2. Lobster Shell Crackers or Kitchen Shears: If you’re working with lobster tails, these tools will help you break through the shells to easily access the meat.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy with your ingredients is key to making the perfect sauce, so be sure to measure the cream, wine, and mustard carefully.
4. Small Saucepan: For preparing the creamy garlic sauce, a small saucepan will help you cook the sauce to the right consistency.
5. Tongs: Tongs are great for flipping the steak and handling the lobster or shrimp without piercing the meat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak and Lobster/Shrimp

Begin by prepping your steak and seafood. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear when cooking. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

For the lobster tails, use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut the top of the shell lengthwise, exposing the lobster meat. If you’re using shrimp, peel and devein them, leaving the tails intact for a prettier presentation. Season both the lobster tails and shrimp with salt, pepper, and a little bit of lemon zest for added freshness.

2. Cook the Steak

Heat the olive oil in a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks to the pan. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or cook to your preferred level of doneness. Use tongs to flip the steaks and make sure they cook evenly.

For added flavor, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan after flipping the steaks. Baste the steaks with the melted butter for an extra boost of richness.

Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and set them aside to rest. Cover loosely with foil to keep them warm.

3. Cook the Lobster or Shrimp

While the steaks are resting, reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter. For lobster tails, cook them cut-side down for about 5-6 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and fully cooked. For shrimp, cook them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the lobster or shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak and seafood, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt into the garlic.

Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce for about 2 minutes. Once reduced, add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture until smooth and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Continue to cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of additional wine or water.

5. Assemble the Surf and Turf

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, return the steak to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy garlic sauce over it. Place the lobster tails or shrimp on top of the steak. Let everything simmer together for an additional minute to ensure the flavors meld.

Serve the Surf and Turf immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Tips for Perfect Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Choosing the Right Steak: Ribeye is a great choice for this dish due to its marbling and tenderness. However, you can also use filet mignon, strip steak, or any cut you prefer.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Be careful not to overcook the steak, as it can become tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if you’re unsure. Medium-rare is 130-135°F (54-57°C), and medium is 140-145°F (60-63°C).
• Perfect Lobster Tail: When cooking lobster tails, don’t overcook them. Lobster cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to rubbery, tough meat. If using shrimp, keep an eye on their color—they should be opaque and pink when done.
• Adjust the Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a tangier sauce, add more lemon juice. For extra richness, increase the amount of cream or butter.
• Searing the Steak: To achieve the perfect sear, ensure your pan is hot before adding the steak. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can cause the meat to steam instead of sear.

Variations of Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of lobster, try substituting it with shrimp, scallops, or even crab legs. You can also swap the steak for another cut of beef, such as filet mignon or sirloin.
• Spicy Garlic Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce or include a finely chopped fresh chili pepper.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in the sauce for added flavor. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a nice smoky note.

Storage and Shelf Life

Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak and seafood in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or wine to the sauce to loosen it up. Reheat carefully to avoid overcooking the steak and seafood.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with Surf and Turf. Their smooth texture complements the richness of the steak and the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a flavorful and colorful side to balance the richness of the main dish.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs wonderfully with the steak. A crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, is a great match for the seafood.

Print

Conclusion

Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a truly decadent and impressive dish that brings together the best of both land and sea. The tender steak, succulent seafood, and rich, garlicky sauce create a memorable meal that’s perfect for any special occasion. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that’s sure to wow your guests or satisfy your craving for something indulgent.