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This rich and satisfying dish brings together tender steak and succulent shrimp bathed in garlic butter. It is the kind of meal I turn to when I want something elegant yet surprisingly easy. Whether served on a special night or just because it is Tuesday, this always earns praise at the table.
I first made this for an anniversary dinner and it turned out so well that now it is my go-to whenever I want to impress with minimal stress.
Ingredients
- Ribeye or filet mignon steaks: choose fresh cuts with good marbling for tenderness
- Shrimp: peeled and deveined fresh or thawed from frozen for best texture
- Butter: creates the base of the sauce and gives a rich mouthfeel
- Garlic: minced fresh cloves give more flavor than jarred alternatives
- Lemon juice: adds brightness and balances the richness
- Fresh parsley: chopped adds a touch of herbal freshness and color
- Salt and black pepper: to taste season generously for bold flavor
- Olive oil: helps sear the steak and adds depth
- Red pepper flakes: optional add heat and complexity
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Steak:
- Preheat a large skillet over medium high heat and add olive oil. Season steaks well with salt and pepper. Sear for about four to five minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and let rest loosely covered.
- Sear the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet melt two tablespoons of butter. Add shrimp and cook for two to three minutes just until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate to avoid overcooking.
- Make Garlic Butter Base:
- Add the remaining butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for about one minute until aromatic and golden. Scrape up browned bits for extra flavor.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes if using. Return shrimp to skillet and coat in sauce. Simmer for two minutes to infuse flavors thoroughly.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Slice the rested steaks across the grain and arrange with shrimp on plates. Spoon over garlic butter and garnish with chopped parsley.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool fully then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat warm gently in a skillet with a touch of butter to restore moisture without overcooking the shrimp.
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Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have ribeye or filet try sirloin or strip steak. You can also substitute scallops for shrimp but reduce the cooking time slightly to keep them tender and sweet.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines beside creamy mashed potatoes crisp roasted vegetables or garlic bread. If you're planning a full meal serve with a leafy salad and a chilled glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Cultural Context
Shrimp scampi is rooted in Italian American cuisine where shrimp is sautéed in garlic butter sometimes with lemon or wine. Combining it with steak creates a surf and turf style dish that feels both familiar and luxurious.
I love how the garlic butter seeps into every bite. Once I made this for my niece and she asked for seconds before finishing the first plate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to maintain texture and avoid excess moisture.
- → Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the garlic butter in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently in a skillet before combining with the shrimp.
- → What steak cuts can I use besides ribeye or filet?
Sirloin or flank steak are great alternatives. Adjust cooking time based on thickness to avoid overcooking.
- → Is this dish good with pasta?
Absolutely. Toss the cooked pasta in the garlic butter sauce and serve with shrimp and steak for a hearty meal.
- → How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?
Cook shrimp only until pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough, so stay close and remove them promptly.