13+ Steak And Scallops Recipes Perfect For Surf & Turf Nights

Some of my very favorite weekends have ended curled up with friends, our table crowded by plates of sizzling steak and glossy scallops, the air swirling with garlic butter and laughter. If I’m honest, nothing quite beats a surf & turf night—equal parts special occasion and pure comfort. Whether you pull out the grill for Father’s Day or just want to treat yourself on a Tuesday, I keep a stash of go-to 13+ steak and scallops recipes perfect for surf & turf nights. They’re impressive but actually easy, and as soon as you smell that sear, you’ll realize the magic is in those little details that make home cooking sing.

1. Classic Steak and Seared Scallops with Garlic Herb Butter

Why You’ll Love It:

When I need fail-proof wow-factor, this is it. Perfect for a date night or the “we survived the week” feeling on a Friday. The steak is juicy, the scallops are sweet and just kissed by heat, and you get a big spoonful of fragrant butter to pull it all together.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 38 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 New York strip steaks, 8 oz each
• 6 large sea scallops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter, plus 3 tbsp (for topping)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Pat steaks and scallops dry with paper towels. Season both generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, until your desired doneness. Remove and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter. When hot, add scallops and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just golden. Remove from heat.
4. In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp softened butter with garlic, parsley, and lemon zest.
5. Serve steaks and scallops together, topped with garlic herb butter and fresh parsley.

Optional Enhancers (choose two):

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the herb butter for subtle warmth.

Best Pairings: Roasted potatoes, asparagus, and crusty bread.

2. Grilled Ribeye with Lemon-Garlic Scallops

Why You’ll Love It:

This is a backyard grilling classic. The ribeye’s smoky char balances the bright lemony scallops, and it always impresses guests. It’s easy enough for a casual dinner but fancy enough for celebrating something big.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 ribeye steaks, 12 oz each
• 12 large sea scallops
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Preheat grill to high heat. Season ribeyes with salt and pepper and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Grill steaks for 4–5 minutes a side, then rest under foil.
3. While steaks rest, heat a skillet. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 4 tbsp butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add scallops and cook 1–2 minutes per side.
4. Squeeze in lemon juice and zest. Toss to coat.
5. Slice the steaks and serve with scallops on top, garnished with thyme.

Swap This With That: Use strip steak or filet mignon instead of ribeye.

Serving Idea: Delicious with grilled corn and a tomato salad.

3. Steak and Scallop Skewers with Chimichurri

Why You’ll Love It:

These skewers are my go-to for BBQ nights or potlucks. The fresh punch of chimichurri brings everything to life, and eating off a stick just makes dinner more fun. Kids and adults are all in.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 42 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb large sea scallops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• For chimichurri:
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Mix chimichurri ingredients in a bowl; season to taste and set aside.
2. Thread steak and scallops alternately onto soaked skewers. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or broil for about 3–4 minutes per side until steak is medium-rare and scallops just opaque.
4. Drizzle generously with chimichurri and serve.

Meal Prep Tip: Make the chimichurri a day ahead for even more flavor.

Best Pairings: Grilled bread and a crisp cucumber salad.

4. Pan-Seared Filet Mignon and Scallops with White Wine Cream

Why You’ll Love It:

Special night in? This is it. Elegant and decadent, but surprisingly simple. The creamy sauce ties the steak and scallops together, and it feels straight out of a fancy restaurant.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 filet mignon steaks, 6 oz each
• 4 large sea scallops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives

How to Make It:

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan. Season filets with salt and pepper. Sear steaks, 4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Rest.
2. In the same pan, add 1 tbsp oil and butter. Sear scallops 1–2 minutes per side. Remove.
3. Add garlic to pan, then pour in wine. Reduce by half. Stir in cream; cook 3 minutes until thickened.
4. Plate steaks and top with scallops and sauce. Sprinkle with chives.

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the sauce.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook the scallops—they turn rubbery fast.

5. Sheet Pan Steak and Scallops with Roasted Veggies

Why You’ll Love It:

Sheet pan meals are my secret weapon when I want cozy but lazy. Toss everything together, roast, and you’ve got minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.5 lbs sirloin steak
• 12 large sea scallops
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Toss veggies with half the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Arrange on baking sheet.
3. Pat steak and scallops dry. Season and drizzle with remaining oil. Arrange steaks and scallops among veggies.
4. Roast 18–20 minutes, flipping steak halfway.
5. Rest steak, slice, and serve with scallops and veggies. Squeeze with lemon.

Meal Prep Tip: Vegetables can be pre-chopped the day before.

Best Pairings: Warm bread and a crisp green salad.

6. Steak and Scallop Fettuccine Alfredo

Why You’ll Love It:

When I want comfort and luxury, this surf & turf pasta satisfies everyone. Rich alfredo sauce, tender steak bites, and scallops make for an unforgettable bowl.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 8 oz sirloin steak, cut in strips
• 8 large sea scallops
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Chopped parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Cook fettuccine per package directions; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Sear steak strips in 1 tbsp olive oil; season and set aside.
3. Sear scallops in remaining oil/butter for 2 minutes per side. Remove.
4. In same pan, add butter and garlic, sauté 1 minutes. Add cream, bring to simmer, stir in parmesan.
5. Toss pasta in sauce, add reserved pasta water, then stir in steak and scallops. Garnish with parsley.

Serving Idea: Great for an anniversary dinner at home.

Swap This With That: Try linguine or penne if fettuccine isn’t handy.

7. Asian-Inspired Soy-Ginger Steak and Scallops

Why You’ll Love It:

The umami-rich marinade makes steak and scallops irresistible, and a simple sauté keeps things easy on a busy weeknight. There’s zing, sweetness, and that hint of sesame.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb flank steak, sliced thin
• 1 lb large sea scallops
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 scallions, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Whisk soy, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Marinate steak and scallops for 15 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a skillet. Sear steak strips until browned. Set aside.
3. Sear scallops in same pan, 2 minutes per side.
4. Serve over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.

Flavor Boost: Add a squirt of sriracha for heat.

Best Pairings: Steamed bok choy and quick-pickled cukes.

8. Herb-Marinated Steak and Scallops Salad

Why You’ll Love It:

This is my answer to “something lighter but still special.” It’s fresh, full of bright herbs, and works for warm nights or elegant lunches.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb flank or strip steak
• 8 large sea scallops
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, ribboned
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• For vinaigrette:
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Whisk vinaigrette ingredients together.
2. Marinate steak and scallops in 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and parsley for 15 minutes.
3. Sear steak 3–4 minutes per side; rest then slice. Sear scallops 2 minutes per side.
4. Arrange greens, veggies, and cheese on a platter. Top with sliced steak and scallops, then drizzle with vinaigrette.

Meal Prep Tip: The vinaigrette keeps in the fridge all week.

Serving Idea: Perfect for a summer backyard meal.

9. Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Scallops

Why You’ll Love It:

Toothpick-friendly and crowd-pleasing, these tender steak bites and scallops are effortless. I love putting them out for game night or a snacky dinner.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 12 large sea scallops
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper
• Chives, chopped
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Pat steak and scallops dry; season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large pan. Sear steak bites until browned, about 4 minutes. Remove.
3. Add 2 tbsp butter and garlic; melt, then add scallops. Sear 1–2 minutes per side.
4. Return steak to pan; toss together with butter. Sprinkle with chives and serve.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use top sirloin or even strip steak ends for better value.

Personal Note: My family devours these faster than I can plate them.

10. Steak and Scallop Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Why You’ll Love It:

Surf & turf, taco night style. The combo of juicy steak and sweet scallops under a mountain of tangy salsa is a taco fix I crave all summer.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb sirloin steak
• 12 large sea scallops
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 red onion, diced
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Season steak and sear in a skillet 4–5 minutes a side; rest, then thinly slice.
2. Sear scallops 2 minutes per side; slice in half horizontally.
3. Make salsa: combine avocado, tomatoes, onion, lime, and cilantro. Season with salt.
4. Toast tortillas. Fill with steak, scallops, and salsa.

Serving Idea: Delicious for a build-your-own taco bar.

Flavor Boost: Toss scallops in chipotle powder before searing.

11. Steak Oscar with Crab and Scallops

Why You’ll Love It:

When you want to show off—maybe Valentine’s Day, maybe “just because”—Steak Oscar never disappoints. Here, scallops add even more luxury alongside the usual crab and asparagus.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 4 sea scallops
• 4 oz lump crab meat
• 6 asparagus spears
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp tarragon, chopped
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Steam asparagus until crisp-tender.
2. Pan-sear filets 4–5 minutes per side; rest. Sear scallops 2 minutes per side.
3. Make béarnaise: whisk yolks, vinegar, butter, and tarragon over a simmer until thickened.
4. Place asparagus on plates; top with steak, crab, and scallops. Drizzle béarnaise on top.

Flavor Boost: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t let the sauce get too hot—it’ll curdle.

12. Steak and Scallop Risotto

Why You’ll Love It:

Comforting, creamy risotto that’s upgraded with steak and scallops makes an easy but impressive centerpiece. The rice soaks up all those savory juices.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb sirloin steak
• 12 sea scallops
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Chopped parsley

How to Make It:

1. Warm the broth in a saucepan.
2. Sear steak in oil, 4 minutes per side; rest and slice.
3. Sear scallops 2 minutes per side; reserve.
4. In remaining fat, sauté onion, then add rice; stir to coat.
5. Pour in wine. Add broth, a ladle at a time, stirring until creamy, 20–25 minutes.
6. Stir in butter, parmesan, steak, and scallops before serving.

Meal Prep Tip: You can pre-cook steak and scallops, then gently rewarm before folding in.

Best Pairings: Garlic bread and a green salad.

13. Steak and Scallops in Spicy Tomato Sauce

Why You’ll Love It:

This recipe brings a punchy, comforting warmth—think surf & turf meets favorite Italian comfort food. The tomato sauce is rich with just enough spice.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut in 1-inch cubes
• 12 sea scallops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil
• Parmesan, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Sear steak cubes in oil; season, remove and reserve.
2. Sear scallops next, 1–2 minutes per side, reserve.
3. Sauté onion and garlic; stir in red pepper flakes, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and simmer 15 minutes.
4. Add steak and scallops back in for the last 3 minutes.
5. Serve topped with basil and parmesan.

Serving Idea: Serve over pasta or with toasted ciabatta.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use stew beef instead of sirloin.

14. Blackened Cajun Steak and Scallops

Why You’ll Love It:

If you love a little heat, this combo is unbeatable. The Cajun spice crust locks in flavor, and it’s fast enough for a weeknight jolt.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb sirloin steak
• 12 sea scallops
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Cooked dirty rice, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Rub steak and scallops with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet. Sear steak 3–4 minutes per side; rest and slice.
3. Sear scallops, undisturbed, 2 minutes per side.
4. Serve steak and scallops over dirty rice, finished with green onions.

Swap This With That: Make it Creole by adding a touch of smoked paprika.

Serving Idea: Try with a side of sautéed collard greens.

15. Steak and Scallops with Brown Butter Sage Sauce

Why You’ll Love It:

That nutty brown butter with crispy sage leaves can make anything feel gourmet—let alone steak and scallops. I love making this when I want classic flavors, simply done right.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 strip steaks
• 6 sea scallops
• 4 tbsp butter
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Roasted potatoes, for serving
• Lemon wedge

How to Make It:

1. Season steak and scallops with salt and pepper.
2. Sear steaks in olive oil, 3–4 minutes per side; set aside to rest.
3. Sear scallops for 2 minutes per side; set aside.
4. In same pan, melt butter over medium heat until foamy and nutty. Add sage, cook until crispy.
5. Arrange steak and scallops on a plate, spoon over brown butter and sage.

Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon to the brown butter before serving.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t burn the butter—it should be golden, not black.

FAQ

How do I know when scallops are cooked correctly?

Scallops are done when they’re opaque and feel slightly firm but still springy in the center. Overcooking makes them tough, so pull them off the heat as soon as they’re just set.

What’s the best steak cut for surf & turf?

Strip steak, filet mignon, and ribeye are all classics—super tender and pair well with delicate scallops. Sirloin is a great, budget-friendly swap that still tastes fantastic.

Can I prep any of these recipes ahead for a party?

Absolutely. Many sauces, marinades, and even sides can be made ahead. Sear scallops and steaks right before serving for the best taste and texture.

Do I need to use fresh scallops, or are frozen okay?

Frozen is perfectly fine—just thaw thoroughly and dry well with paper towels before cooking for the best sear.

Conclusion

There’s something about bringing steak and scallops together that always feels like a celebration—whether it’s a big birthday or just making weeknight dinner feel special. These 13+ steak and scallops recipes perfect for surf & turf nights prove that you don’t need a reservation or hours in the kitchen to enjoy restaurant-worthy flavor. Every recipe lets you play with sauces, seasonings, sides, and even serving styles, so listen to your cravings and experiment. I hope you find yourself lingering a little longer at the table, savoring each bite and sharing the joy with the people you love. Happy cooking.