Steak and Shrimp – The steak is perfectly seared to a juicy, tender finish, while the shrimp are seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory richness of the steak. Served together, this dish is an ideal choice for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight treat.
Why Steak and Shrimp Make the Perfect Pair
Steak and shrimp are a match made in heaven, offering the best of both land and sea. The richness of a beautifully cooked steak, with its savory crust and juicy interior, pairs exquisitely with the tender, sweet flavors of shrimp. It’s no wonder that this combination is a favorite at high-end restaurants and dinner parties alike.

Variations to Try
This classic surf and turf combo is ripe for customization. Here are some ideas:
- Cajun-Style: Season the steak and shrimp with Cajun spices for a spicy kick. Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes to balance the heat.
- Herb-Crusted: Add a crust of chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, to your steak. Pair with garlic butter shrimp for a herbaceous twist.
- Asian-Inspired: Marinate the steak in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Cook the shrimp with a hint of chili and garlic, and serve over a bed of steamed jasmine rice.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Steak and Shrimp
- Rest the Steak: After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Butter Basting: For an extra layer of flavor, add a knob of butter, crushed garlic, and fresh thyme to the pan and baste the steak in the melted butter.
- Use Fresh Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon over the shrimp enhances their flavor and adds brightness to the dish.

How to Serve Steak and Shrimp
Presentation matters, especially for such an elegant meal. Arrange the sliced steak and shrimp on a large platter. Drizzle the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with:
- A hearty side: Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or a wild rice pilaf.
- A fresh element: Mixed greens or a crunchy coleslaw to cut through the richness.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Store steak and shrimp separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Steak can be frozen for up to 3 months, but shrimp is best eaten fresh. If you must freeze shrimp, use it within 1-2 months.
- Reheating: Gently reheat steak in a skillet with a bit of oil to avoid drying it out. Shrimp should be reheated quickly in a pan to prevent rubberiness.

Recipe FAQs
Can I grill the steak and shrimp instead of pan-searing them?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with both steak and shrimp. Just be sure to brush the shrimp with oil to prevent sticking.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen shrimp?
Place the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes or let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Opt for leaner cuts of steak, like sirloin, and use olive oil instead of butter. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Can I use different seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes! Scallops or lobster tails are excellent substitutes for shrimp in this dish.
Steak and Shrimp

Steak and Shrimp - The steak is perfectly seared to a juicy, tender finish, while the shrimp are seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory richness of the steak. Served together, this dish is an ideal choice for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight treat.
Ingredients
For the Steak and Shrimp:
- 2 New York strip steaks
- 6-8 large shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 1 tbsp Dad's All-Purpose Rub (or your favorite steak seasoning)
Cajun Honey Sauce:
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp Dad's Steak seasoning (or a good steak spice blend)
- 1/2 tbsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Generously coat all sides of the NY strips with Dad’s All-Purpose Rub, making sure to press the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to 500°F for direct heat. Place the steaks on the grill, searing for 5 minutes total.
- Flip every minute to get that even, crispy crust. Remove the steaks when they hit an internal temperature of 125-130°F for that perfect medium-rare. Let them rest for 10 minutes to lock in the juices.
- Devein and peel the shrimp, then toss them in a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Dad’s All-Purpose Rub. Preheat the grill to 400°F for direct heat.
- Grill the shrimp for about 1.5 minutes per side until they’re beautifully pink and just cooked through.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low to medium heat. Add the honey, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne
- pepper, and Dad’s Steak seasoning. Whisk continuously as the sauce simmers and thickens into a sweet, spicy masterpiece.
- Drizzle the Cajun honey butter sauce over the grilled shrimp and sliced steak. Pair with your favorite sides, and get ready to dig in!
Final Thoughts
Steak and shrimp is a timeless combination that’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Whether you keep it simple with salt and pepper or jazz it up with bold seasonings, mastering this surf and turf classic is easier than you think. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones – because good food is even better when shared!
Check my other shrimp recipes: