Steak and Creamy Shrimp
Steak and Creamy Shrimp: A Decadent Dinner for Special Nights
There are some recipes that instantly transport you to a moment—a date night, a family celebration, or even just a cozy Friday evening when you decide to treat yourself. For me, steak and creamy shrimp is exactly that kind of dish. The first time I made this epic surf and turf for my husband’s birthday, the buttery aroma of garlicky shrimp wafted through our tiny kitchen and the sizzle from the sirloin steak made us both pause and smile. It felt fancy but didn’t require hours in the kitchen, which is my favorite kind of magic. Today I’m sharing my favorite steak and creamy shrimp recipe—a true showstopper that’s totally doable at home and perfect for everything from an anniversary dinner to a spontaneous, indulgent night in.
Why You’ll Adore This Steak and Creamy Shrimp
Let me gush for a minute, because this steak and creamy shrimp has fast become a monthy must-make in our house. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe too:
- Two favorites, one plate: The combination of juicy sirloin steak and succulent, garlicky shrimp in a silky Parmesan cream sauce feels like a restaurant-worthy dinner that comes together in your own kitchen (surf and turf for the win!).
- Easy but impressive: Even though it sounds fancy, you don’t need professional skills. Each step is simple—and trust me, the results are wildly good.
- Full of flavor: There’s plenty of seasoning thanks to smoked paprika, thyme, and a good hit of garlic. The creamy sauce ties everything together with just the right touch of decadence.
- Perfect for special moments: Whether it’s an anniversary, holiday, or “just because you deserve it” kind of night, this recipe feels like a celebration every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Steak and Creamy Shrimp
Before you start, gather these wholesome, flavorful ingredients. I’ve tossed in a few personal tips because when it comes to surf and turf, every detail matters.
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak: I love sirloin because it’s both tender and flavorful—ribeye or filet mignon work, too, if you want to splurge!
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh is best, but high-quality frozen shrimp works in a pinch. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A good drizzle helps achieve that golden sear on the steak and shrimp.
- 2 tbsp butter: Don’t skip this—the butter adds both flavor and silkiness to the shrimp and sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic packs a punch (the more, the merrier in my book).
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to a lush, restaurant-style sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for the silkiest sauce (pre-grated sometimes clumps).
- 1 tsp paprika: Smoked or sweet both work—smoked adds great depth!
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Earthy and fragrant, it ties the dish together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Don’t hold back on the seasoning—steak and shrimp love it.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color (optional but lovely).
Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Steak and Creamy Shrimp
Ready to cook? Let’s walk through it together:
- Season the Steak: Sprinkle your sirloin with salt, pepper, and paprika. Give it a gentle pat—this helps the seasoning stick and forms that crave-worthy crust.
- Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet (a cast iron pan is great here) over medium-high. Cook steak about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness. Rest the steak on a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep those juices in.
- Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once melted and sizzling, toss in the minced garlic—just until fragrant. (Don’t walk away, garlic burns fast!) Add your shrimp. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, until perfectly pink. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Still using that flavor-packed skillet, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan. Stir and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of your spoon.
- Finish the Shrimp: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Gently spoon the sauce over them, letting everything mingle for a couple more minutes until heated through.
- Slice & Serve: Slice your rested steak thinly. Plate the slices, then spoon that dreamy creamy shrimp and sauce right on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley to finish.
Tip: For extra decadence, add a pat of butter over the steak before serving. Pure bliss.
My Secret Tips and Tricks for Steak and Creamy Shrimp Success
After making this classic surf and turf recipe countless times, here are my favorite hacks that make all the difference (and keep everything juicy and flavorful):
- Let steak come to room temp: Before cooking, set your steak out for 20-30 minutes. It cooks more evenly and stays juicy (pro tip for any grilled steak!).
- Dry your shrimp well: If your shrimp are wet, they’ll steam instead of sear. Take the time to pat them dry!
- Rest, rest, rest: Resist the urge to slice that steak right away. Resting keeps the juices where you want them: in every bite.
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan: I can’t overstate this—freshly grated cheese and minced garlic elevate the entire dish.
- Don’t overcook your shrimp: Keep an eye out! The moment they’re pink and opaque, pull them out. Overdone shrimp get chewy fast.
- Try smoked paprika: This adds the most delicious smoky undertones that play beautifully with both the steak and shrimp.
Creative Variations and Ingredient Swaps
Want to change things up or cater to dietary needs? Here’s how you can easily adapt this steak and creamy shrimp dinner:
- Different protein: Try chicken breast or salmon in place of steak for a lighter surf and turf twist.
- Dairy-free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use a vegan Parmesan substitute—it’s surprisingly delicious!
- Add greens: Wilt a handful of baby spinach or kale into the sauce at the end for a color and nutrition boost.
- Kick up the spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Lemon zest: For a pop of brightness, stir in a bit of fresh lemon zest right before serving.
- Herb swap: Fresh basil or chives work beautifully instead of parsley.
This is such a flexible surf and turf recipe—make it truly your own!
How to Serve and Store Your Steak and Creamy Shrimp
This steak and creamy shrimp recipe really shines with simple sides: think garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crusty baguette for sopping up all that creamy sauce (hello, comfort food!). For a lighter meal, a crisp side salad works beautifully too.
If you have leftovers (I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat the shrimp and sauce on the stovetop over low heat to keep everything tender. Reheat steak separately to your liking to avoid overcooking.
FAQs: Your Top Questions About Steak and Creamy Shrimp Answered
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak for this surf and turf recipe?
A: Absolutely. While sirloin is my go-to (great value, great flavor), ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon are all fantastic choices for steak and creamy shrimp.
Q: What’s the best way to make sure my shrimp stay juicy in creamy sauce?
A: Cook them just until pink and opaque, then remove them from heat. Shrimp cook so quickly—2-3 minutes per side is usually perfect!
Q: Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?
A: Yep! You can prep the sauce a day ahead. Store in the fridge, then gently reheat and finish with shrimp just before serving for the creamiest texture.
Q: My sauce is too thin—help!
A: Letting your sauce simmer a few extra minutes (uncovered) will thicken it up. And always use freshly grated Parmesan—pre-grated doesn’t melt as well.
Q: Is this steak and creamy shrimp recipe gluten-free?
A: It is! Just double-check your chicken broth and Parmesan labels if gluten is a concern.
There you have it, my favorite way to bring the steakhouse home—without the price tag. Next time you crave a decadent, feel-good meal, I hope you’ll try this steak and creamy shrimp. (Let me know how it turns out in the comments below, or tag me in your surf and turf creations—I’m always cheering you on!).
Steak and Creamy Shrimp
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak Tender and flavorful, but ribeye or filet mignon work as well.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined) Fresh is best, but high-quality frozen shrimp works.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For searing the steak and shrimp.
- 2 tbsp butter Adds flavor and silkiness to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic packs a punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream The secret to a lush, restaurant-style sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Adds depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is ideal.
- 1 tsp paprika Smoked or sweet; smoked adds great depth.
- 1 tsp dried thyme Earthy and fragrant.
- Salt and black pepper to taste Don't hold back on the seasoning.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional for freshness and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Sprinkle the sirloin with salt, pepper, and paprika, then pat gently to adhere.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and preferred doneness. Let rest covered with foil.
- In the same pan, heat remaining olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Sauce and Serving
- Pour heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan into the skillet. Stir and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them, heating for an additional couple of minutes.
- Slice the rested steak thinly, plate, and spoon the creamy shrimp and sauce on top. Garnish with parsley.
