DINNER

Surf Turf Creamy Garlic: 2 Amazing Secrets

by Fatima Garcia

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22 de January de 2026

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Surf Turf Creamy Garlic has always felt like a special occasion meal to me, the kind you save for anniversaries or when you really want to impress someone. I still remember the first time my mom made a version of this dish – the aroma of garlic and butter filling our small kitchen was pure magic. The combination of perfectly seared steak and plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce is simply divine. It’s surprisingly simple to recreate that restaurant-quality experience right at home, making this an easy Surf and Turf Creamy Garlic dinner you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

This Surf Turf Creamy Garlic recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: The combination of tender steak, succulent shrimp, and a rich garlic cream sauce is simply divine.
Quick Prep Time: You can whip up this elegant meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Surprisingly Budget-Friendly: Making this at home is much more affordable than dining out.
Family-Approved: Even picky eaters will adore the creamy, garlicky goodness of this dish.
Elegant Presentation: This Creamy Garlic Steak and Shrimp looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal.
Versatile: It’s perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the steak and shrimp, it’s a satisfying and wholesome choice.
Delicious Pairing: The Creamy Garlic Steak and Shrimp pairs beautifully with pasta or vegetables.

Surf Turf Creamy Garlic Ingredients

Gathering these Surf Turf Creamy Garlic Ingredients is the first step to an amazing meal. You’ll need two beautiful ribeye steaks, about an inch thick, and a pound of plump shrimp, all peeled and deveined. For the base of our incredible sauce, grab 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You’ll also need 6 cloves of garlic, minced – don’t be shy with the garlic, it’s key! For that luxurious creaminess, we’ll use 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 1 teaspoon of paprika for a hint of color and flavor, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Of course, salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning. Finally, have some fresh parsley, chopped, for a bright garnish and lemon wedges for serving.

How to Make Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

Let’s dive into making this incredible dish! It’s simpler than you think to create a restaurant-quality Surf Turf Creamy Garlic right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: First things first, let’s get those steaks ready. Season your 2 ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them hang out at room temperature for about 15 minutes; this helps them cook more evenly.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned steaks in the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust. Adjust the cooking time based on how you like your steak cooked.
Step 3: Transfer the seared steaks to a plate and let them rest, tented loosely with foil. This resting period is crucial for juicy steak!
Step 4: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and get nice and bubbly. Toss in your 6 cloves garlic, minced, and sauté for just about 30 seconds until you can smell that amazing garlicky aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 5: Now, add your 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, to the skillet. Sauté them quickly until they just turn pink and are cooked through, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, just until the sauce starts to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, creating that luscious Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Step 7: Bring the rested steaks back into the skillet. Spoon that glorious creamy garlic sauce over the steaks, making sure they get a good coating of the sauce. This step truly brings the Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce together.
Step 8: Garnish your beautiful creation with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your amazing Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce!

Surf Turf Creamy Garlic: 2 Amazing Secrets - Surf Turf Creamy Garlic - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

Elevating your Surf Turf Creamy Garlic is all about a few key techniques. Follow these tips for a truly spectacular dish every time.

Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing your steaks; cook them in batches if necessary to ensure a beautiful crust.
Use fresh garlic! Dried or powdered garlic won’t give you that vibrant, pungent flavor essential for this dish.
Let your steaks rest properly after searing. This step is crucial for keeping them juicy and tender.
Ensure your heavy cream is at room temperature before adding it to the hot skillet to prevent curdling.

What’s the secret to perfect Surf Turf Creamy Garlic?

The magic lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Searing the steak perfectly and then creating a rich, emulsified Garlic Cream Sauce for Surf and Turf that coats everything beautifully makes this dish sing. Don’t rush the steak resting period!

Can I make Surf Turf Creamy Garlic ahead of time?

While the steak is best cooked fresh, you can prep some components ahead. Peel and devein your shrimp and mince your garlic up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Surf Turf Creamy Garlic?

A common pitfall is overcooking the shrimp; they cook very quickly, so watch them closely. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing. Lastly, ensure your sauce simmers gently; boiling can cause the cream to break.

Best Ways to Serve Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

This luxurious Surf Turf Creamy Garlic is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right sides truly elevates the entire meal. For a classic experience, consider serving it alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a simple risotto. These sides soak up the incredible garlicky sauce beautifully, making every bite even more satisfying. If you prefer something lighter, a fresh green salad with a bright vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus would be perfect. The crispness of the salad or the slight crunch of the asparagus offers a lovely contrast to the rich flavors. This Creamy Garlic Surf and Turf Recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite complementary dishes!

Nutrition Facts for Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

Let’s break down the nutritional highlights for this delectable Surf Turf Creamy Garlic dish. This information is based on a single serving, giving you a clear picture of what you’re enjoying.

Calories: 620 kcal
Fat: 45g
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

Properly storing and reheating your Surf Turf Creamy Garlic ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal later. Once your dish has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps maintain the quality of the food and prevents it from absorbing odors in your refrigerator. You can keep this dish in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the Surf and Turf Garlic Butter Sauce and the steak and shrimp separately. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the steak and shrimp on the stovetop over low heat, adding the reserved sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Surf Turf Creamy Garlic

What is Surf Turf Creamy Garlic?

Surf Turf Creamy Garlic is a classic dish that combines surf (seafood, typically shrimp) and turf (meat, usually steak) in a rich, decadent garlic cream sauce. It’s known for its luxurious texture and robust garlic flavor, making it a popular choice for special dinners.

Can I substitute the steak or shrimp?

Absolutely! While ribeye and shrimp are traditional, feel free to get creative. Flank steak, sirloin, or even chicken breast can work for the “turf” component. For the “surf,” scallops, lobster tails, or even firm white fish like cod or halibut are delicious alternatives.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If your sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer gently for a few more minutes to reduce. For a thicker sauce, you can create a slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce until it thickens. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth.

What side dishes pair well with Surf Turf Creamy Garlic?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter pasta are fantastic for soaking up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, consider steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Variations of Surf Turf Creamy Garlic You Can Try

While this Surf Turf Creamy Garlic recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different flavor combinations and dietary needs. This dish is incredibly versatile!

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Shrimp: Swap the ribeye steaks for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, then proceed with the shrimp and sauce. This variation is a delicious alternative if you prefer poultry.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in Step 4. You can also add a diced jalapeño for an extra layer of flavor and spice.
Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a slightly lighter take, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk (though this will alter the flavor profile).
Garlic Parmesan Cream: Stir in about 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce during the last minute of simmering for an extra cheesy, savory depth. This also makes it a lovely Surf and Turf Garlic Parmesan Cream.

About the Author

Fatima Garcia