Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

Grilled Steak & Shrimp, also known as Surf and Turf, is a dish that combines the best of both worlds: succulent steak and tender shrimp, all slathered in rich garlic butter. This Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp recipe is perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner. With its incredible flavor and quick preparation time, it’s like having a gourmet meal right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter with grilled steak and shrimp creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or even backyard barbecues.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish to guests for an elegant touch that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Easy Cleanup: Grilling makes for less mess compared to other cooking methods.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment not only speeds up the process but also ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill brush
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on both steak and shrimp.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients easily and efficiently.
• Tongs: Allows you to flip and handle meat without piercing it, preserving juices.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic (or 1 tablespoon minced garlic)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

For the Steak & Shrimp

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 New York Steak strip steaks (Porterhouse steaks)
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch pepper
• 8 ounces shrimp (deveined, tails on or off)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Mix together the unsalted butter, garlic, and fresh chopped parsley in a mixing bowl. Once combined, refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill over high heat. Lightly grease the grill plates with olive oil. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. Brush them lightly with oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Steaks

Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Spread half of the garlic butter over the steaks while they cook. Once done, transfer them to a warm plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

While your steaks are resting, melt the remaining butter in a small pan. Season your shrimp with salt and pepper. Reduce your grill heat to medium and place the shrimp on it. Grill for about 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through until they turn pink and opaque inside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once cooked through, toss the remaining garlic butter over the grilled shrimp. Serve alongside your perfectly grilled steak for a delicious meal!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp is a delightful dish that can elevate any dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the richness of the steak and shrimp.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta adds a burst of flavor to your meal.

Accompany with Starches

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the savory steak.
• Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf can absorb the flavors from the garlic butter, making every bite delicious.

Add Some Color with Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears charred on the grill add a smoky flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that complements both steak and shrimp.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

To achieve a flawless Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp, follow these helpful tips that will make all the difference in your cooking.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh, high-quality steaks for better flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the meat; this helps achieve a nice sear.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even grilling and proper heat distribution.
• Let Steaks Rest: Allowing steaks to rest after grilling lets juices redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the overall taste of your garlic butter mixture.
• Adjust Cooking Times for Size: Keep an eye on shrimp cooking times based on their size for perfect doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

Complementing your Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Classic Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of steak and shrimp.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a summertime favorite that pairs beautifully with grilled meat.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned zucchini slices grilled until tender bring vibrant color and taste to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides a healthy contrast to the richness of the main dish.
6. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and can be dipped in garlic butter for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp is simple, but a few mistakes can impact your dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the resting time: Not letting the steak rest after grilling can make it tough. Allowing it to rest for about 5 minutes helps redistribute the juices for a more tender bite.

• Not seasoning adequately: A pinch of salt and pepper may not be enough. Be generous with your seasoning for both the steak and shrimp to enhance their flavors.

• Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Keep an eye on them, aiming for that beautiful pink color, which indicates they are cooked perfectly.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t spread well over hot steak. Ensure your garlic butter is at room temperature or slightly melted before using it for the best flavor distribution.

• Ignoring grill temperature: Grilling at too low of a temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Make sure your grill is hot before adding the steak and shrimp for a nice sear.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Separate containers are best for steak and shrimp to maintain texture.

Freezing Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place steak and shrimp in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), flipping halfway until warm. Be careful not to overheat as this can dry out the meat.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little butter or oil, then warm the steak and shrimp gently, ensuring they don’t cook further.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve a perfect sear on my Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp?

To get that restaurant-quality sear, make sure your grill is preheated properly. Pat the steaks dry before seasoning, and don’t move them around too much while cooking.

Can I use other cuts of steak for Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp?

Absolutely! While New York strip steaks work great, you can also use ribeye or sirloin depending on your preference and budget.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp?

Consider serving with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.

Can I customize the garlic butter for different flavors?

Yes! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even spices like paprika or chili flakes to give your garlic butter a unique twist that complements the surf and turf theme.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Grilled Steak & Shrimp is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings gourmet dining into your home kitchen. The recipe’s versatility allows you to customize flavors and sides according to your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy creating this delicious dish that will impress family and friends alike!