Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Tender filet mignon paired with succulent garlic-infused shrimp creates the ultimate special occasion dinner that's surprisingly achievable at home. This Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers restaurant-quality luxury with a buttery steak, perfectly cooked shrimp, and a rich sauce that ties everything together. The combination of land and sea creates a meal that feels truly indulgent, perfect for celebrating life's special moments or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary.

I first made this recipe for my anniversary dinner when I wanted to create something special without the restaurant price tag. The look on my partner's face when I presented these beautiful plates was worth every minute in the kitchen. What began as a special occasion splurge has become our tradition for celebrating life's important moments.

Perfect Ingredients

• Tenderloin Filets: Choose well-marbled cuts about 1.5-inches thick—their buttery texture and mild flavor pair beautifully with seafood
• Large Shrimp: Look for plump, pink shrimp labeled 16/20 count—they should smell fresh like the ocean with no ammonia odor
• Heavy Cream: The foundation of the luxurious sauce—full-fat delivers the richest texture and flavor
• Fresh Garlic: Use plump, firm cloves for the brightest flavor—pre-minced versions won't deliver the same impact
• Fresh Rosemary: This aromatic herb infuses the steak with wonderful depth—a little goes a long way
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth to the sauce without tasting distinctly Asian—use low-sodium if you're watching salt intake
• Quality Butter: European-style butter with higher fat content creates a silkier sauce and better browning on the steak

Cooking Instructions

Prepare The Steak:

Begin by removing two 6-ounce tenderloin filets from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This crucial step brings the meat to room temperature, ensuring even cooking. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust during cooking while enhancing the beef's natural flavor.

Achieve The Perfect Sear:

Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet over high heat until it's nearly smoking, then add two teaspoons of olive oil. Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the hot pan, allowing them to sear undisturbed for about 4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. This initial sear locks in juices and creates complex flavors through caramelization.

Add Aromatics:

Flip the steaks, reduce heat to medium, and add two tablespoons of butter and a sprig of fresh rosemary to the pan. As the butter melts, it combines with the beef's juices and rosemary to create an aromatic bath. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the steaks with this flavorful butter for another 3-4 minutes, developing depth of flavor while cooking to medium-rare.

Rest For Juiciness:

Transfer the steaks to a warm plate and loosely tent with foil. Allow them to rest for 10 minutes while preparing the shrimp and sauce. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of spilling out when cut, resulting in a juicier steak.

Cook The Shrimp:

While the steaks rest, season twelve peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl, ensuring even coating. Using the same skillet with the flavorful remnants from the steak, add a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes, flipping halfway through, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them promptly to avoid overcooking.

Create The Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add two tablespoons of soy sauce and a quarter cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these contain concentrated flavors that enrich the sauce. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, then add red pepper flakes to taste for a subtle heat that balances the richness.

Pin it

My brother-in-law, a self-proclaimed steak connoisseur, was skeptical when I told him I was making surf and turf at home. After his first bite, he paused, looked at me with genuine surprise, and said, "This is better than the steakhouse." What I find most satisfying is how the simple garlic sauce transforms these already excellent proteins into something truly memorable.

Elegant Presentation

Transform this delicious dish into a visually stunning meal with thoughtful presentation. Place a mound of garlic mashed potatoes in the center of each warmed plate, creating a foundation for the proteins. Position the rested steak atop the potatoes at a slight angle, then arrange the shrimp in a cascade down the side. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce artfully over and around the plate, allowing it to pool slightly at the base. Finish with a light sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley for color contrast and a hint of freshness that brightens both the appearance and flavor.

Perfect Pairings

Complete your luxurious meal with sides that complement without overwhelming the star attractions. Roasted asparagus spears lightly dressed with olive oil, lemon, and sea salt provide a fresh, earthy counterpoint to the rich proteins. Garlic-herb roasted baby potatoes offer satisfying texture and absorb the delicious sauce beautifully. For true indulgence, serve alongside crusty artisan bread that can soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce. A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec stands up wonderfully to the robust flavors of this special meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

Streamline your cooking process with smart preparation strategies. Season the steaks and store uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking—this dry-brining technique enhances flavor and texture. Clean and season the shrimp up to eight hours ahead, keeping them refrigerated until needed. The garlic cream sauce can be made earlier in the day and gently reheated just before serving, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its silky consistency. These preparations allow you to focus on perfect cooking timing when it's time to serve.

I've prepared numerous special occasion meals over the years, but this surf and turf remains my go-to when I want to create something truly memorable. What makes it special isn't just the quality ingredients, but the way they harmonize on the plate. The richness of the steak, the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, and the garlicky cream sauce that brings everything together—it's a symphony of flavors that feels like a celebration. This dish has become more than just food in our home; it's now part of our family traditions for marking life's important moments.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of steak works best for surf and turf?

Beef tenderloin (filet mignon) is ideal for surf and turf because of its tender texture and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood. However, ribeye or New York strip steak can also work well if you prefer a more robust beef flavor.

→ Can I substitute the shrimp with another seafood?

Absolutely! Lobster tail is a classic surf and turf option, but you could also use scallops, crab meat, or even a small portion of salmon. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as different seafood requires different cooking methods.

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

A meat thermometer is your best tool: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well, and 160°F for well done. Remember that the temperature will rise about 5 degrees during resting time.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While surf and turf is best enjoyed freshly prepared, you can prep components ahead of time. Season the steaks and shrimp up to 8 hours ahead and refrigerate. The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and gently reheated. Just cook the proteins right before serving.

→ What sides pair well with surf and turf?

Classic pairings include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad. For a more indulgent meal, consider twice-baked potatoes, creamed spinach, or sautéed mushrooms. A crusty piece of bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For the creamy sauce, use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cooking cream instead of heavy cream. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.