Surf and Turf Recipes Easy

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Recipes

Enjoy the best of both worlds with these easy surf and turf recipes, combining succulent steak with fresh seafood.

Harriet Bloom

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-03T01:57:34.571Z

Surf and turf is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of meat and the freshness of seafood. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, these easy recipes will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly cooked steak paired with tender shrimp or lobster
  • A delightful combination of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds
  • Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings

The Perfect Pairing

Surf and turf offers a unique combination that satisfies both meat lovers and seafood enthusiasts. The rich, juicy flavor of ribeye or filet mignon pairs beautifully with the delicate sweetness of shrimp or lobster. This duality not only enhances the dining experience but also caters to a variety of taste preferences, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or special occasions. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this combination elevates any meal.

Choosing the right cuts of meat and seafood is crucial for achieving the best results. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients, which will ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor. When cooking steak, the tenderness of ribeye or filet mignon allows for a perfect sear and an exquisite finish, while shrimp or lobster tails add a luxurious touch. With simple seasoning and cooking techniques, you can create a gourmet experience that feels effortless.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of surf and turf recipes is their quick preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, these dishes can be made in under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a sumptuous meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can impress your family or guests with a restaurant-quality dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious.

The versatility of these recipes means you can easily customize them to suit your taste. Want to add a kick? Consider incorporating spices or marinades to enhance the flavors of the steak and seafood. Additionally, you can serve these dishes with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, to create a well-rounded meal that caters to every palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Surf and turf dishes are not just for special occasions; they can also be a great choice for casual family dinners. The ability to prepare these meals quickly makes them a suitable option for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. However, their elegance and flavor profile also make them a fantastic choice for celebrations like anniversaries, holidays, or romantic dinners at home.

By mastering surf and turf recipes, you’ll have a versatile skill set to impress at any gathering. The combination of steak and seafood showcases your culinary creativity and ability to balance flavors, making each meal memorable. Whether you’re cooking for two or hosting a larger group, these recipes will leave everyone satisfied and eager for more.

Ingredients

For the Steak and Shrimp

  • 2 ribeye steaks
  • 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Steak and Lobster

  • 2 filet mignon
  • 2 lobster tails
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Choose your favorite combination of steak and seafood for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Steak and Shrimp

1. Season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.

2. Cook the steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium rare. Remove and let rest.

3. In the same skillet, add garlic and shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink. Stir in parsley before serving.

Prepare the Steak and Lobster

1. Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Sear the steaks for 5-6 minutes on each side for medium rare. Remove and let rest.

3. In the same pan, add lobster tails and cook for 4-5 minutes, basting with butter and lemon juice. Sprinkle with chives before serving.

Serve your surf and turf with a side of vegetables or your favorite starch!

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Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, marinate the steaks in a mixture of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Tips for Cooking Steak

Achieving the perfect steak requires attention to detail. Always allow your steak to come to room temperature before cooking; this ensures even cooking throughout. Use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired doneness; for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. Letting the steak rest after cooking is equally important, as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

Don't forget to experiment with different seasonings and marinades. Simple combinations of salt, pepper, and fresh herbs can elevate your steak, while more robust marinades can add depth of flavor. Consider using a cast-iron skillet for a perfect sear, or grill for that smoky flavor that complements the meat beautifully.

Seafood Preparation Tips

When it comes to seafood, freshness is paramount. Purchase shrimp and lobster from reputed sources to ensure quality. Always check for a clean smell, and ensure shrimp have a firm texture. For lobster tails, look for shells that are hard and intact, indicating freshness.

Cooking seafood requires less time than meat, so timing is crucial. Be cautious not to overcook shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Lobster should be cooked until the meat is opaque and tender. Using a simple butter and lemon sauce not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the seafood moist and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different seafood?

Yes, feel free to substitute shrimp with scallops or crab meat!

→ What side dishes pair well with surf and turf?

Mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the dish well.

→ How do I know when the steak is cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium rare, 140°F for medium.

→ Can I prepare the seafood in advance?

Yes, you can clean and season the seafood a few hours ahead of time but cook just before serving for best results.

Surf and Turf Recipes Easy

Enjoy the best of both worlds with these easy surf and turf recipes, combining succulent steak with fresh seafood.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Harriet Bloom

Recipe Type: Family Comfort Food Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Steak and Shrimp

  1. 2 ribeye steaks
  2. 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Steak and Lobster

  1. 2 filet mignon
  2. 2 lobster tails
  3. 3 tablespoons butter
  4. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

How-To Steps

Step 01

1. Season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.

2. Cook the steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium rare. Remove and let rest.

3. In the same skillet, add garlic and shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink. Stir in parsley before serving.

Step 02

1. Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Sear the steaks for 5-6 minutes on each side for medium rare. Remove and let rest.

3. In the same pan, add lobster tails and cook for 4-5 minutes, basting with butter and lemon juice. Sprinkle with chives before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the steaks in a mixture of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Total Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 40g