Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Surf and Turf is the epitome of indulgence, and pairing tender filet mignon with succulent grilled shrimp makes for a restaurant-quality dinner right at home. This dish brings together the best of land and sea, offering a rich, buttery cut of beef alongside perfectly seasoned shrimp kissed by the grill. It is an elegant yet approachable recipe, perfect for romantic dinners, special celebrations, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
The filet mignon is prized for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while the shrimp provides a lighter, juicy contrast, ensuring a perfectly balanced meal. Grilling both components enhances their natural flavors with a smoky edge, and when served with a simple butter sauce or garlic herb topping, the flavors truly shine. Quick to prepare yet incredibly impressive, this Surf and Turf recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.
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Surf and Turf with Filet Mignon and Grilled Shrimp – The Ultimate Dinner Duo
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
An elegant surf and turf meal featuring tender filet mignon paired with succulent grilled shrimp, finished with a garlic butter sauce for a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 oz each)
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for shrimp)
Instructions
- Preheat grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season filet mignon with salt and pepper, then brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Sear or grill filet mignon for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or until desired doneness. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes.
- Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and add garlic. Cook for 1 minute, then stir in lemon juice and parsley.
- Plate filet mignon and top with grilled shrimp. Drizzle garlic butter sauce over the top before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 125°F rare, 135°F medium-rare, 145°F medium.
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a Caesar salad.
- Compound butter with herbs can be added to the steak for extra richness.
- For indoor cooking, a cast-iron skillet works well for both steak and shrimp.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Filet mignon – Known for its tenderness and buttery texture, filet mignon is the centerpiece of the “turf” portion, delivering a luxurious dining experience.
Shrimp – Large shrimp or prawns provide the “surf” element. Their slightly sweet flavor and juicy texture pair beautifully with the richness of steak.
Olive oil – Used to coat the steak and shrimp before grilling, helping to lock in flavor and create a perfect sear.
Butter – Melted butter enhances the flavor of both filet mignon and shrimp, especially when infused with garlic or herbs.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth and savory notes that elevate the dish.
Fresh herbs – Rosemary, thyme, or parsley bring brightness and balance to the rich proteins.
Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the meat and seafood.
Lemon juice – A squeeze of lemon brightens the shrimp, cutting through the richness with a refreshing citrus note.
Directions
Start by preparing the filet mignon. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Brush lightly with olive oil.
Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat. Place the steaks on the hot surface and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. For a perfect medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F. Once cooked, let the steaks rest under foil for 5–10 minutes to retain their juices.
While the steaks rest, prepare the shrimp. Toss peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Grill the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
In a small pan, melt butter with garlic and fresh herbs to create a quick sauce. Drizzle this over both the filet mignon and shrimp before serving. Plate them together with your choice of sides such as roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people, making it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, while cooking takes 15–20 minutes, giving you an impressive meal in just 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat steak gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 275°F until warmed through. Shrimp can be quickly reheated in a skillet for 1–2 minutes. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can make both steak and shrimp rubbery.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic butter shrimp – Toss the shrimp in a garlic butter sauce instead of grilling for a richer flavor.
Bacon-wrapped filet mignon – Add a smoky twist by wrapping each steak in bacon before cooking.
Spicy kick – Season shrimp with Cajun spices or chili flakes for a bold, fiery flavor.
Herb-crusted steak – Coat the filet with fresh herbs and breadcrumbs before searing for added texture.
Surf swap – Substitute shrimp with lobster tails or scallops for a luxurious variation.
Wine pairing – Serve with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a crisp Chardonnay for shrimp.
Low-carb option – Pair the dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad instead of potatoes or rice.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, ribeye or strip steak are great alternatives, though filet mignon is the most tender choice.
What size shrimp should I use?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best for grilling as they stay juicy and don’t overcook quickly.
Can I cook the steak in the oven?
Yes, you can sear it in a skillet first, then finish in a 400°F oven until desired doneness.
Do I need to marinate the shrimp?
Not necessary, but a short marinade with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice enhances flavor.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer: 130–135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can season the steak and shrimp in advance, but cook them fresh for best results.
What sides go well with Surf and Turf?
Roasted potatoes, asparagus, green beans, or a crisp salad are excellent choices.
How do I keep shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Brush both the shrimp and grill grates with oil before cooking.
Can I make this indoors without a grill?
Yes, a cast-iron skillet or grill pan works perfectly on the stovetop.
Is filet mignon worth the price?
Yes, its tenderness and buttery texture make it a premium cut ideal for special occasions.
Conclusion
Surf and Turf with Filet Mignon and Grilled Shrimp is a timeless dish that captures the best of both worlds. Elegant yet simple to prepare, it combines melt-in-your-mouth steak with juicy, flavorful shrimp for an unforgettable dining experience. With a quick cooking time, customizable flavors, and versatile side options, it is the perfect recipe to impress at any dinner table. Whether for a romantic evening, a celebration, or simply treating yourself, this Surf and Turf recipe delivers indulgence in every bite.
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