Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the ultimate indulgence, blending the luxurious flavors of succulent lobster or shrimp with a perfectly cooked steak, all drenched in a velvety, savory garlic sauce. This elegant dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, special occasion, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly unforgettable. Whether you choose a tender filet mignon, a juicy ribeye, or another favorite cut, the combination of tender seafood and rich steak is always a winner. The creamy garlic sauce elevates the entire meal, adding a luscious, savory finish that makes every bite pure perfection.

The first time I made this dish, I was amazed by how easily it came together—and how quickly it became a new favorite. Searing the steak to the perfect level of doneness, then creating the creamy garlic sauce, was surprisingly simple, but the flavors were anything but basic. As the lobster or shrimp and steak soaked up the sauce, the kitchen filled with a mouthwatering aroma that had everyone eagerly waiting for dinner.

What I love most about Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is how it brings a touch of luxury to any meal without the need for complicated techniques. It’s an impressive dish that feels like fine dining at home, and it’s easy to customize—try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or swapping the garlic sauce for a tangy lemon-butter sauce for a fresh twist. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner for two, this dish will always make the occasion feel extra special.

Perfect for:

Romantic dinners
Special occasions
Date nights
Holiday meals
Fine dining at home

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce will become your new favorite meal:

Best of Both Worlds: The combination of tender steak and sweet seafood creates a perfect contrast in flavors and textures.
Rich and Luscious Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce adds a decadent touch, enhancing the steak and seafood with a savory, velvety finish.
Restaurant-Quality Meal: This dish brings the elegance and flavors of a high-end restaurant to your own kitchen.
Impressive and Elegant: The presentation of the surf and turf with creamy sauce will wow your guests and elevate any meal.
Customizable: Choose your favorite cut of steak and seafood, whether it’s lobster tail, shrimp, or scallops.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 700-800 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 50g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 50g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce:

2 steaks (filet mignon, ribeye, or sirloin)
2 lobster tails (or shrimp, scallops, or other seafood)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter, divided
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

Steak: Choose your favorite cut of steak—filet mignon is tender and mild, while ribeye is rich and flavorful.
Lobster Tail or Shrimp: Tender, sweet lobster tail or shrimp add the “surf” to your dish, offering a contrast to the hearty steak.
Heavy Cream: The base for the creamy garlic sauce, providing richness and smoothness.
Garlic: The key flavor in the sauce, lending a savory, aromatic depth.
Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and helps balance the richness of the cream.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a slight tanginess to the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Steak:

Season the Steak: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks.
- For medium-rare: Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- For medium: Cook for 5-6 minutes per side.
- For well-done: Cook for 7-8 minutes per side.
Rest the Steak: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside to rest while you cook the seafood.

Cook the Seafood:

Prepare the Lobster Tail (or Shrimp): If using lobster tails, use kitchen shears to cut down the center of the shell and gently pull the meat out while keeping it attached at the base. For shrimp, simply peel and devein them.
Sear the Lobster or Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. If using lobster, cook the tails for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the meat is opaque and firm. For shrimp, cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden.
Add Chicken Broth and Dijon Mustard: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the Dijon mustard. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add Heavy Cream and Lemon Juice: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish the Sauce: Return the seafood to the skillet and coat with the creamy garlic sauce, then spoon the sauce over the steaks.

Serve:

Plate and Garnish: Place the steaks on serving plates, then top with the lobster or shrimp. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

How to Serve

Classic Surf and Turf Platter: Serve the steak and seafood with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for balance.
As a Fancy Date Night Dinner: Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, for an elegant touch.
With Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy garlic sauce.

Additional Tips

Rest the Steak: Let your steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring it’s tender and juicy.
Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Seafood cooks quickly, so be sure to watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Customize the Sauce: You can add a little white wine or parmesan to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe Variations

Grilled Surf and Turf: Grill the steak and lobster tails for a smoky flavor, then top with the creamy garlic sauce.
Shrimp and Scallops Surf and Turf: Use a combination of shrimp and scallops for a different seafood option.
Spicy Garlic Sauce: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce for some heat.
Chimichurri Sauce: For a fresh twist, top your surf and turf with a zesty chimichurri sauce instead of the creamy garlic sauce.
Mushroom Cream Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the garlic sauce for an earthy flavor to complement the steak.
Lobster Mac and Cheese: Serve the lobster with a side of creamy lobster mac and cheese for an indulgent twist.
Balsamic Glazed Surf and Turf: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the steak for a sweet and tangy finish.
Crispy Fried Onion Topping: Top the steak and seafood with crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Swap the Dijon mustard for grated parmesan cheese for a garlic parmesan cream sauce.
Lemon Butter Sauce: Replace the creamy garlic sauce with a tangy lemon butter sauce for a lighter alternative.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: It’s best to freeze the steak and seafood separately if you plan to store the dish. You can freeze the seafood for up to 3 months and the steak for up to 6 months. Freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Storage: Store leftover surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Special Equipment

Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
Tongs
Meat Thermometer
Knife (for preparing seafood)
Small Saucepan (for preparing the sauce)

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of steak? Yes, you can use any cut of steak, such as strip steak, porterhouse, or even a skirt steak.
Can I use frozen seafood? Yes, just make sure to thaw the seafood completely before cooking.
How do I know when the steak is cooked? Use a meat thermometer—125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
Can I use a different sauce? Yes, you can substitute the creamy garlic sauce with a variety of sauces like a blue cheese sauce, peppercorn sauce, or chimichurri.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best to cook everything fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce is an elegant and luxurious meal that combines tender, juicy steak with the delicate sweetness of seafood, all wrapped in a rich, flavorful garlic sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a romantic dinner at home, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your table.

With the flexibility to customize both the steak and sauce, you can make this meal truly your own. Pair your favorite cut of steak with succulent shrimp, lobster, or scallops, and adjust the creaminess or garlic intensity of the sauce to match your taste. The result is a hearty, indulgent meal that’s as satisfying as it is impressive.

I can’t wait to see your Surf and Turf creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this dish to life. Don’t forget to share your personal twists in the comments. Happy cooking!