Ready for a treat? Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp is a quick and tasty dinner. This dish combines juicy ribeye steaks with plump shrimp, all coated in rich garlic butter. You’ll impress family or friends with ease. I’ll guide you through simple steps, tips, and variations, making it fun and stress-free. Let’s dive into this easy dinner delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasoning and Garnish
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Serving Items
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Lemon wedges, for serving
When I make Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp, I focus on the best ingredients. The ribeye steaks give a rich flavor and juicy texture. Large shrimp cook up tender and sweet. Unsalted butter adds a creamy finish that ties everything together.
Garlic is a must for this dish. It gives a warm, savory note that makes the meal special. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste. Paprika adds a slight smokiness that enhances the flavors.
I sometimes use olive oil to help sear the steak. It creates a nice crust on the meat. Lemon wedges add a bright touch when serving. Just squeeze a little juice over the dish for a zesty kick.
For the full recipe, refer to the detailed steps that will guide you through cooking this delightful meal. With these ingredients, you will be ready to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steaks
To start, let’s prepare the steaks. First, season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. I like to use a good amount of paprika for flavor. This gives the steak a nice color and a bit of a kick. Next, let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
Cooking the Steaks
Now it’s time to cook the steaks. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks. Sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. For the best results, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. This way, your steaks stay juicy and tender.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Shrimp
While the steaks cook, let’s make the garlic butter shrimp. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should smell fragrant. Now, add the shrimp to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on one side. Then, flip them and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque when done.
Final Assembly
Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the skillet. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is key, as it allows the juices to settle. Then, slice the steaks against the grain. To finish, combine the sliced steak with the garlic butter shrimp. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. This adds a zesty kick to your dish. For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
How to choose the best steak
When picking steak, look for ribeye with good marbling. Marbling means fat streaks in the meat. This fat adds flavor and keeps the steak juicy. Choose steaks that are bright red and firm to the touch. The thickness should be about one inch for even cooking.
Techniques for perfectly cooked shrimp
To cook shrimp just right, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. Remove the tails for easy eating. Heat the pan well before adding shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when done. Avoid overcooking; it makes shrimp tough.
Flavor Enhancements
Alternative seasonings
While garlic butter is the star, you can mix it up! Try adding lemon zest for brightness. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice heat. You can also use herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste.
Adding spice for kick
If you like bold flavors, add some chili flakes. This gives your dish a nice kick without overpowering it. You can also try some smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste.
Presentation Ideas
Plating suggestions
For a beautiful plate, slice the steak against the grain. Arrange the shrimp around the steak for a nice look. Drizzle some garlic butter over the top for shine. Use a large white plate to make the colors pop.
Garnishing for visual appeal
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or chives. A few lemon wedges on the side add color and a zesty touch. This makes your meal look like it came from a fine restaurant!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change up the seafood in this recipe. Instead of shrimp, try scallops or lobster. Both options give a rich taste that pairs well with garlic butter. If you want a lighter choice, consider using fish like salmon or tilapia.
You can also switch the steak cut. Ribeye is juicy, but sirloin or filet mignon works too. Each cut brings a different flavor and tenderness. Choose what you love most.
Dietary Adjustments
For a low-carb option, skip any bread or starchy sides. Serve this dish with a fresh salad or steamed veggies instead. You keep all the rich flavor while cutting down on carbs.
If you’re gluten-free, this recipe is naturally safe. Just check that your seasonings and any added sauces are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy it.
Flavor Profiles
Want to add more flavor? Consider marinades! A soy sauce or teriyaki base adds depth. Let the steak and shrimp soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
You can also infuse the dish with herbs and spices. Fresh thyme or rosemary works wonders. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Experiment to find your perfect blend!
For the complete cooking process, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp fresh, follow these tips:
– Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge within two hours of cooking.
– Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and odors. Glass containers work well.
Reheating Methods
When reheating, you want to keep the steak and shrimp juicy. Here are some methods:
– Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth. Cover to steam the food for a few minutes.
– Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often.
For serving leftovers, consider making a wrap or salad. It adds a fresh twist!
Freezing Tips
If you want to store your meal longer, freezing is a great option:
– Freezing: Place the steak and shrimp in freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible.
– Timeframe: For best taste, eat frozen leftovers within three months.
Freezing helps maintain flavor and texture, making it easy for busy nights!
FAQs
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp?
You can pair garlic butter steak and shrimp with many tasty sides. Here are some of the best options:
– Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these complement the dish well.
– Grilled Asparagus: A fresh, crunchy side that adds color.
– Roasted Broccoli: Nutty and slightly charred, it balances the rich flavors.
– Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing offers a nice contrast.
– Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs soaks up the garlic butter nicely.
These sides enhance the meal and create a great dining experience.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just follow these tips:
– Thawing: Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps them thaw quickly.
– Cooking: Frozen shrimp may need a minute more to cook. Check for a pink color and firm texture.
– Quality: Always choose high-quality frozen shrimp for the best taste.
Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen works well when you need a quick meal.
How do I know when my steak and shrimp are done?
Knowing when your food is done is key. Here are some tips:
– Steak: Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. The steak should feel firm but still have some give.
– Shrimp: Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. They should curl slightly but not be rubbery.
These simple checks will help ensure perfect cooking every time.
Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prepare some parts of the dish ahead of time. Here’s how:
– Steak: You can season and let it sit for a few hours. This helps flavor development.
– Shrimp: Clean and devein shrimp a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until cooking.
– Reheating: When ready, reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat. Cook shrimp on medium heat to avoid drying them out.
Making components ahead saves time and stress during dinner prep. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
This blog post covered how to create a delicious garlic butter steak and shrimp dish. We explored the main ingredients like ribeye steaks and large shrimp. I provided step-by-step instructions and shared tips for perfect cooking. You can also adjust flavors and dietary needs based on your preference.
Remember, cooking is about finding joy in the process. With practice, you can master this dish and impress anyone at your table. Enjoy every bite!
