Chef Mitchell preparing Garlic Herb Surf and Turf
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the magic of surf and turf during a culinary event, where the pairing of steak and seafood struck me as a perfect balance. Since then, I've perfected my Garlic Herb version, using fresh ingredients to enhance the flavors. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, cherished by family and friends alike."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I've specialized in American cuisine, creating comforting and flavorful dinner recipes. My passion lies in using fresh, local ingredients to elevate classic dishes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Garlic Herb Surf and Turf served on a plate

Why This Garlic Herb Surf and Turf Recipe Works

The combination of steak and shrimp in this Garlic Herb Surf and Turf makes it a standout dish. The rich flavors of the steak complement the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, creating a harmonious blend. Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the taste, making each bite a delight.

Using a marinade ensures that the meat is flavorful throughout. The cooking method allows for both the steak and shrimp to be perfectly cooked, maintaining their juiciness. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in a visually stunning plate that’s sure to impress.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let your steak come to room temperature before cooking. This helps in achieving a more even cook. Additionally, don’t rush the marinating process, as the flavors develop beautifully with a little time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the steak in advance, up to 24 hours. However, it's best to cook the shrimp fresh just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

If you're looking for a substitute for steak, try using pork chops or chicken breast. Both options can be marinated and grilled similarly, and they absorb flavors well.

The steak should be cooked to your desired doneness, which you can check with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes on the grill.

While it’s not recommended to freeze the cooked dish, you can freeze the marinated raw steak and shrimp. Just ensure they’re stored in an airtight container and used within three months for best quality.

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or grilled asparagus. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors well.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the texture and flavor of the shrimp and steak.

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the steak ahead of time. However, for the best texture and freshness, cook the shrimp close to serving time.

Reheat your Garlic Herb Surf and Turf gently in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat. This helps prevent overcooking the shrimp and steak, keeping them tender.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The steak or shrimp may turn out dry if overcooked.

Solution: To prevent dryness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to the desired doneness and avoid overcooking the shrimp, which should only take a few minutes.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Shrimp may not develop a nice crust if the pan or grill isn’t hot enough.

Solution: Ensure your cooking surface is preheated properly before adding the shrimp. This helps seal in moisture and creates a crispy exterior.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If your steak is overcooked, it can become tough and chewy.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, monitor cooking times closely and use a thermometer to check internal temperatures. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches your target temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the steak may remain undercooked if not monitored.

Recovery: For even cooking, consider using a reverse sear method or let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling, allowing the heat to distribute evenly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the steak or shrimp might burn before the inside is cooked.

Prevention: Cook on medium heat and avoid direct flames. If necessary, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, serve it with a side of unsalted vegetables or rice to balance out the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish is bland, enhance it with additional seasoning or fresh herbs right before serving.

Fresh ingredients for Garlic Herb Surf and Turf

Essential Ingredients for Garlic Herb Surf and Turf

Key ingredients include high-quality steak, fresh shrimp, and a blend of aromatic herbs. The steak provides a rich, meaty flavor, while the shrimp adds a delicate sweetness. Together, they create a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.

Using fresh, quality ingredients is crucial for the best flavor. Opt for grass-fed steak and wild-caught shrimp if possible. Fresh herbs enhance the dish and bring a burst of flavor, elevating this meal to a gourmet experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Steak: Choose a well-marbled cut like ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness. Allow the steak to come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
  • Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp that are large and peeled. Avoid overcooking them to maintain their juicy texture.
  • Herbs: Fresh herbs make a significant difference in flavor. Use a combination of parsley, thyme, and rosemary for a well-rounded herb profile that complements the meat beautifully.
Cooking process for Garlic Herb Surf and Turf

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

This recipe is designed for ease and delicious results. Start by preparing the marinade, allowing the flavors to meld. Marinating the steak is essential for depth of flavor and tenderness.

Cooking the steak and shrimp simultaneously ensures everything is ready to serve at the same time. Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking, leading to perfectly finished steak and shrimp.

Key Technique for Perfect Garlic Herb Surf and Turf

The key to achieving perfect Garlic Herb Surf and Turf lies in the marination process and careful temperature control while cooking. Allowing the steak to marinate not only enhances its flavor but also tenderizes the meat, while cooking each component to the right temperature ensures juicy and flavorful results.

Garlic Herb Surf and Turf

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 5 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
    Chopped
  • 2 teaspoons salt
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs steak
    Ribeye or sirloin, cut into portions
  • 1 lb large shrimp
    Peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon
    Juiced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For cooking
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables
    Sautéed (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, mix the butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.

  2. Marinate the Steak

    Rub half of the marinade mixture onto the steak pieces and let sit for 15 minutes.

  3. Cook the Steak

    Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 6-8 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

  4. Prepare the Shrimp

    In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

  5. Cook the Shrimp

    In the last 5 minutes of grilling the steak, add the shrimp to the grill or skillet. Cook until pink and opaque.

  6. Sauté the Vegetables

    In another pan, sauté the mixed vegetables in a bit of olive oil until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

  7. Serve the Dish

    Plate the grilled steak and shrimp. Drizzle with the remaining herb marinade and serve with sautéed vegetables.

  8. Garnish and Enjoy

    Garnish with extra herbs if desired and enjoy your Garlic Herb Surf and Turf!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Garlic Herb Surf and Turf with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish.

Recipe Variations

For a different twist, try using scallops in place of shrimp or add a spicy kick with some red pepper flakes in the marinade. You can also experiment with different herb combinations.