Why This Luxury Surf and Turf Recipe is a Game-Changer
There’s something magical about combining land and sea in one dish. Picture this: tender filet mignon, perfectly seared, topped with succulent shrimp, and smothered in a rich lobster cream sauce. Sounds indulgent, right? I first made this Luxury Surf and Turf for my husband’s birthday. Let me tell you, it was love at first bite—for both of us! The creamy sauce paired with the juicy steak and sweet seafood creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re celebrating or just treating yourself, this recipe will make any meal feel special.
A Little Background on Surf and Turf
The concept of surf and turf isn’t new. It dates back to the 1960s when steakhouses began offering combinations of steak and seafood as premium menu items. Back then, it was all about extravagance—lobster tails and filet mignon were reserved for fine dining. Today, we’ve brought this classic dish into our kitchens, adding personal touches like a decadent lobster cream sauce. When I tested this recipe, I wanted to honor tradition while making it accessible for home cooks. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why surf and turf remains a timeless favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Luxury Surf and Turf is packed with bold flavors that complement each other beautifully. The filet mignon is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the shrimp adds a pop of sweetness. And let’s not forget the star of the show—the lobster cream sauce. Its velvety texture and savory notes elevate the entire dish. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few quality ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in no time.
Perfect Occasions to Prepare This Dish
This recipe is perfect for date nights, anniversaries, or holiday dinners. Imagine serving this dish at your next dinner party—it’s sure to impress your guests! I also love making it for family gatherings because everyone feels spoiled. Even if it’s just a random Tuesday, sometimes life calls for a little luxury. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
Ingredients
- Steak: 4 filet mignon steaks
- Shrimp: 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Lobster Cream Sauce:
- 8 oz lobster meat, cooked and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup white wine
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitution Options
If you can’t find filet mignon, ribeye or New York strip steak works well too. For the seafood, scallops or crab meat can replace shrimp and lobster. If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk. And don’t worry if you skip the white wine—a splash of chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon juice does the trick.
Step 1: Prepare Filet Mignon
Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Sear the steaks until they develop a beautiful golden crust, about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove them from the pan and let them rest under foil to stay warm. Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfection—135°F is ideal for medium-rare.
Step 2: Cook Shrimp
In the same skillet (or a clean one), melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Their delicate aroma fills the kitchen, making your mouth water. Once done, set them aside. Chef’s tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the shrimp.
Step 3: Make Lobster Cream Sauce
Melt the remaining butter in the skillet and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the chopped lobster meat and cook for 2 minutes to infuse the flavors. Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce thicken slightly, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The creamy sauce should coat the back of a spoon—pure heaven!
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Place each filet mignon steak on a plate and top with two perfectly cooked shrimp. Spoon the luscious lobster cream sauce over everything, letting it cascade down the sides. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch the smiles light up around the table.
Timing
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
This quick timeline makes it easy to enjoy a luxurious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Chef’s Secret
To take this dish to the next level, sprinkle a bit of caviar on top before serving. It’s a small touch that adds a burst of briny flavor and extra elegance.
Extra Info
Did you know lobsters were once considered “poor man’s food”? In colonial America, they were so abundant that servants complained about eating them too often. Fast forward to today, and lobster is a symbol of luxury. Funny how things change, huh?
Necessary Equipment
You’ll need a good skillet, tongs, a sharp knife, cutting board, and a meat thermometer. A whisk comes in handy for smoothing out the sauce.
Storage
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them properly. Place the steak and shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce separate to prevent sogginess. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the textures.
For longer storage, freeze the components individually. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Remember, seafood doesn’t freeze as well as steak. Use frozen shrimp and lobster within a month for best results.
Tips and Advice
- Pat the steaks dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish—it makes a huge difference in flavor and presentation.
- Don’t rush the reduction process for the sauce; patience pays off.
Presentation Tips
- Serve on warm plates to keep the dish hot longer.
- Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a fancy touch.
- Pair with candlelight and soft music for a romantic vibe.
Healthier Alternative Recipes
Here are six ways to lighten up this dish:
- Grilled Vegetables: Swap mashed potatoes for grilled asparagus or zucchini.
- Lighter Sauce: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Leaner Protein: Try sirloin steak instead of filet mignon.
- Plant-Based Option: Substitute mushrooms for steak and tofu for seafood.
- Low-Sodium Version: Reduce salt and use low-sodium broth.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, especially the wine.
Mistake 1: Overcooking the Steak
Overcooked steak ruins the whole dish. Filet mignon is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium. To avoid this mistake, use a meat thermometer and remove the steaks from heat slightly before they reach your desired doneness—they’ll continue cooking as they rest.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Resting Step
Resting the steak allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy. Cutting into it too soon lets those precious juices escape. Patience is key here!
Mistake 3: Rushing the Sauce
The lobster cream sauce needs time to thicken and develop its flavors. Don’t crank up the heat to speed things along; you might end up with a curdled mess. Simmer gently and stir occasionally for best results.
FAQ
What is surf and turf?
Surf and turf refers to dishes that combine meat (usually steak) and seafood. This pairing highlights contrasting yet complementary flavors and textures.
Can I use frozen lobster?
Yes, thaw frozen lobster overnight in the fridge and pat it dry before using. Fresh lobster is ideal but frozen works in a pinch.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. They only take 2-3 minutes per side, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the richness of the steak and seafood beautifully.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish difficult to make?
Not at all! With clear instructions and high-quality ingredients, even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad balance the richness of the main course.
Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing?
Definitely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
How do I choose the best filet mignon?
Look for steaks with even marbling and a bright red color. Thickness matters too—aim for 1.5 inches for optimal cooking.
Can I add more seafood?
Of course! Scallops or crab legs would be delicious additions to this Luxury Surf and Turf.
Final Thoughts
This Luxury Surf and Turf recipe is proof that indulgence doesn’t have to be complicated. From the perfectly seared steak to the decadent lobster cream sauce, every element sings harmony. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this dish delivers. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that wows. Bon appétit!
Luxury Surf Turf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper, then sear them in a skillet with oil for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest covered with foil.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet, add the shrimp, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the lobster meat and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half, then stir in the heavy cream and allow the sauce to thicken, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the dish by placing the filet mignon on a plate, topping with shrimp, and smothering in the lobster cream sauce.