If you’re craving a dinner that’s both luxurious and simple to prepare, this Ultimate Steak & Shrimp Skillet is the perfect choice. Tender steak, succulent shrimp, and a rich garlic cream sauce combine to create a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy in the comfort of your home.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This dish strikes the perfect balance of elegance and ease. With just one skillet and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a show-stopping meal bursting with flavor. The creamy garlic sauce with hints of lemon enhances the steak and shrimp, making each bite unforgettable.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Steak & Shrimp Skillet
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ribeye steak (or your favorite cut)
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Aromatics and Sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)
- ½ cup broth (beef, chicken, seafood, or vegetable)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Steak
- Season the steak with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes on each side until a crust forms. Adjust time based on your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steak and let it rest to retain its juices.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- Add butter to the same skillet and toss in the shrimp.
- Sear for about 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and slightly caramelized.
- Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce
- Pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
- Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce.
- Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the steak and shrimp to the skillet, coating them in the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy a savory, indulgent experience!
Cooking Breakdown
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~650
Tips for the Best Steak & Shrimp Skillet
- Choose the Right Steak: Ribeye is perfect for its marbling, but sirloin or New York strip are excellent alternatives.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
- Let the Steak Rest: Allowing the steak to rest after searing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Layer Flavors: Use the same skillet for each step to build a depth of flavor in the sauce.
What to Serve with Steak & Shrimp Skillet
This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that let the flavors shine:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Asparagus or green beans complement the dish beautifully.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for sopping up every last drop of sauce.
FAQs
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! Scallops or lobster tails would make excellent additions to this dish.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer:
- Rare: 125°F
- Medium-Rare: 135°F
- Medium: 145°F
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the broth and Parmesan cheese used are certified gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and chop ingredients in advance for faster cooking.
Where Can I Find More Recipe Ideas? You can explore more recipes in our categories: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. For additional inspiration, check out popular sites like AllRecipes and Tasty.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Steak & Shrimp Skillet is more than a meal—it’s an experience. With tender steak, juicy shrimp, and a velvety garlic cream sauce, it’s a dish that transforms ordinary dinners into extraordinary occasions. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this skillet meal is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.