There’s an undeniable charm that comes from the kitchen on a special night—especially when the tantalizing aroma of Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp fills the air. Imagine sitting down to a meal that effortlessly merges seared ribeye steak with tender, succulent shrimp, all drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce that beckons for a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing green salad.
After a long week of fast food and simple meals, I was on a quest to create something extraordinary without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. This decadent surf and turf dish does just that—turning a straightforward dinner into an occasion worth celebrating. From the first bite, the combination of bold, savory flavors and a drizzle of garlic butter captures the essence of indulgence.
Whether you’re cooking for a romantic date night or a laid-back gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the glory of Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp!
Why is Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp a must-try?
Simplicity: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekends without sacrificing flavor.
Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce elevates both the steak and shrimp, creating a savory dance of taste that your taste buds will love.
Versatility: Feel free to swap out steak cuts or even the shrimp for scallops or lobster, offering endless culinary possibilities.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal at home, perfect for any gathering or date night.
Elegant Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant plating make this dish a feast for the eyes, ensuring it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Time-Saving: With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy a gourmet dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp Ingredients
For the Steak and Shrimp
• Ribeye Steak – This is your star protein, renowned for its rich marbling; feel free to swap it for New York strip or filet mignon for variety.
• Shrimp – Sweet and tender, make sure to use peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture; scallops can be a delightful alternative.
• Olive Oil – Essential for achieving a beautiful golden crust when searing the steak; avocado oil works as a great substitute.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Butter – Use unsalted butter for control over seasoning in the garlic sauce; it creates that enviable richness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for a vibrant flavor; avoid pre-minced options for the best results.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness to the shrimp; feel free to omit it for a milder flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Always essential for enhancing the natural flavors of both steak and shrimp.
For Garnish and Serving
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – This adds freshness and color; cilantro works too, or feel free to skip if preferred.
• Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish, enhancing all the flavors in the Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp recipe.
How to Make Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp
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Prepare the Steaks: Pat the ribeye steaks dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes—this helps achieve that perfect sear.
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Sear the Steak: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil once it’s hot, then sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. During the last minute, add 2 tablespoons of butter and half of the minced garlic to the pan for extra flavor.
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Rest the Steaks: Transfer the seared steaks to a plate and cover them loosely with foil. Allow them to rest for about 5-10 minutes; this step keeps them juicy and tender.
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Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, toss in the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp, season with smoked paprika, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and plump.
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Combine & Infuse: Once the shrimp are ready, return the rested ribeye steaks to the skillet. Nestle the shrimp around them and spoon the garlic butter sauce over everything. This way, every bite is infused with flavors.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh touch, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Pair it up with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Optional: For a touch of elegance, serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in that delicious garlic butter sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp
- Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is properly heated to achieve a good sear. A hot pan locks in juices and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Avoid overcooking the shrimp, which should be pink and opaque. Remove them as soon as they’re no longer translucent to maintain tenderness.
- Rest the Steaks: Allowing the ribeye to rest after searing is crucial; this keeps the meat juicy when you slice into it.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh minced garlic for the sauce, as it provides the rich flavor that elevates the Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp recipe.
- Versatile Garnishes: Feel free to experiment with garnishes; try fresh herbs like thyme or chives to add another layer of flavor to your dish.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp?
Enhance your culinary experience by complementing your meal with delightful sides that elevate the flavors of your surf and turf feast.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the savory garlic butter sauce, making every bite indulgent.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy crust with soft, garlicky insides allows for perfect dipping in the leftover sauce, creating a comforting side choice.
- Sautéed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh, green element, brightening the plate while balancing the richness of the steak and shrimp.
- Mixed Green Salad: Tossed lightly with lemon vinaigrette, the salad offers a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of your decadent meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers bring a colorful touch while enhancing the meal’s overall hearty flavors.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the dish’s richness, bringing out the flavors of the garlic and butter beautifully.
- Lemon Sorbet: Ending on a light note, this refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after your rich main course, providing a sweet finish.
- Cheesy Risotto: This creamy side brings a luxurious texture and subtle flavors that blend perfectly with the steak and shrimp.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, slightly tangy slaw can add a delightful crunch and a fresh element to balance the savory notes of your main dish.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp
- Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the steak and shrimp separately in freezer-safe bags; they can last up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a pat of butter and a splash of water or broth to keep the shrimp from drying out.
- Avoid Room Temperature: Do not leave the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the ribeye steaks with salt and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. The garlic butter sauce can be prepared ahead of time as well; just refrigerate it and reheat before serving. For the shrimp, you can peel and devein them up to 3 days in advance for easy assembly. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear the steaks and shrimp as directed, spoon the warmed garlic butter over the top, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort!
Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and customize this dish with delightful twists to suit your taste buds!
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Steak Swap: Use New York Strip for a leaner cut with plenty of flavor. Each bite will still deliver mouthwatering richness.
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Seafood Twist: Replace shrimp with Scallops for a luxurious option that brings a sweet and delicate flavor twist. Just be careful not to overcook them!
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Spicy Kick: Add Red Pepper Flakes to the garlic butter for a zesty heat that perfectly complements the richness of the steak and shrimp.
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Flavor Infusion: Incorporate a Splash of White Wine into the garlic butter, adding a sophisticated layer of depth that balances the meal beautifully.
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Herb Upgrade: Try adding Fresh Thyme or Rosemary when cooking the steak for a fragrant herbal note that enhances the overall experience.
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in a bit of Chopped Fresh Basil right before serving for a fresh, vibrant taste contrast that also brightens the dish visually.
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Vegetable Delight: For an extra pop of color and nutrients, sauté some Spinach or Asparagus alongside the shrimp, adding delightful texture and flavor.
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Garlic Lovers: Double the amount of Garlic in the butter sauce for an intense garlic flavor that will satisfy any garlic enthusiast’s cravings.
No matter which variations you choose, each one will transform your Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp into a new and exciting creation!
Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing ribeye steaks?
Absolutely! Look for ribeye steaks that have good marbling—thin streaks of white fat running through the meat—this adds incredible flavor and tenderness. Fresh ribeyes should have a bright red color, with minimal dark spots. If you’re unsure, choose steaks that feel firm to the touch without being overly soft.
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp?
Very simply! Place your leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer the steak and shrimp to freezer-safe bags and freeze them separately for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the bags with the date, so you know when to use them!
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, portion the steak and shrimp into individual freezer-safe bags—this helps with quicker reheating later. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in a skillet to keep the flavors intact.
Why are my shrimp tough or chewy? What should I do?
The key is to avoid overcooking them! Cook the shrimp only until they’re pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. If they’re cooked too long, they can become tough. If you find your shrimp gets overcooked, it may help to lower the heat and watch them closely during the last stages of cooking.
Can I substitute the shrimp in this recipe?
Of course! The beauty of this Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp Recipe is its versatility. Feel free to replace shrimp with scallops or even lobster for a more luxurious twist. Adjust the cooking times accordingly since scallops may take a bit longer, typically requiring about 3-4 minutes per side.
Is this dish suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Yes, for those with shellfish allergies, it’s best to avoid shrimp altogether. You can simply enjoy the ribeye steak on its own or switch to non-shellfish options like grilled chicken or even veggies grilled in the garlic butter sauce. Always make sure to communicate any dietary restrictions when cooking for others!
Savor Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak and Shrimp Recipe Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Steaks: Pat the ribeye steaks dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil once it's hot, then sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Rest the Steaks: Transfer the seared steaks to a plate and cover them loosely with foil. Allow them to rest for about 5-10 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, toss in the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Combine & Infuse: Return the rested ribeye steaks to the skillet with the shrimp and spoon the garlic butter sauce over everything.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and serve with lemon wedges on the side.