Easy Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and Shrimp Recipe for a Cozy Family Dinner
These succulent New York strip steaks paired with tender shrimp bring the beloved surf-and-turf experience right to your dining table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes, bringing together flavor and comfort in every bite.
It all starts with simple, fresh ingredients and a little bit of love. Imagine walking into your kitchen with the aroma of garlic and butter wrapping you in a warm hug, as you prepare a meal that’s bound to impress your family. I can still remember the first time I made this dish; it quickly became a favorite in our household, bringing smiles and satisfaction around the dinner table.
Easy Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delicious surf-and-turf dish featuring succulent New York strip steaks paired with tender shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 large New York strip steaks (or 4 small)
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
- 1–2 tablespoons cold butter
- 2 whole cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, pressed or minced
- 2 teaspoons chopped thyme (or rosemary, tarragon)
- 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
- A big pinch of Maldon sea salt + coarse black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, pressed garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Take your steaks out of the refrigerator at least 20 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Pat them dry, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the steaks and whole garlic cloves. Cook for about 3-7 minutes on each side until desired doneness. Transfer to a plate to rest for 5-7 minutes.
- Discard most grease from the pan but leave about 1 tablespoon. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then toss in the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for about 1 to 1½ minutes until shrimp curl up into a ‘C’ shape.
- Top the steak and shrimp with a generous dollop of the garlic butter and serve warm with your choice of sides.
Notes
For best results, let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dish
Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and Shrimp is a delicious, quick meal that’s sure to impress! Not only does it feature two of the most beloved proteins, but it’s also a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something elegant yet simple.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 2 large New York strip steaks (or 4 small)
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons cold butter
- 2 whole cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, pressed or minced
- 2 teaspoons chopped thyme (or rosemary, tarragon)
- 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
- A big pinch of Maldon sea salt + coarse black pepper
Directions:
Make the Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, pressed garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
Prep the Steaks: Take your steaks out of the refrigerator at least 20 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Pat them dry with a paper towel, lightly brush both sides with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a beautiful crust.
Cook: Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil; let it heat through. When the skillet is hot, add the steaks and the whole garlic cloves. Cook for about 3-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, then transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5-7 minutes.
Shrimp: If there’s excess grease in the pan, discard most but leave about 1 tablespoon. While the steak is resting, add the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then toss in the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper and cook for about 1 to 1½ minutes until they curl up into a ‘C’ shape.
Serve: When ready to enjoy, top your steak and shrimp with a generous dollop of the garlic butter, and serve warm with your choice of sides.
Serving Suggestions for Your Garlic Butter Dish
Pair your beautifully plated steak and shrimp with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery mashed potatoes. The rich garlic butter sauce will add an extra layer of flavor to your sides, making your meal completely unforgettable.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover steak and shrimp (which is unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently to keep the shrimp from becoming tough and the steak from drying out.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp
- Let your steaks come to room temperature for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches your preferred doneness without guesswork.
- For added flavor, marinate the steaks in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
Possible Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices! Try using rosemary for an earthy flavor or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like things spicy. You can also substitute the shrimp with scallops or lobster for a seafood twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
What is the best way to know when the steak is done?
- Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can make the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.