Best Surf and Turf Recipes

Some surf and turf served in a cast iron skillet.

If you’re planning your next special occasion, step up to my outdoor FYR Grill and explore my top Surf and…

The post Best Surf and Turf Recipes appeared first on Over The Fire Cooking.

Some surf and turf served in a cast iron skillet.

If you’re planning your next special occasion, step up to my outdoor FYR Grill and explore my top Surf and Turf recipes. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, date night, or a dinner to celebrate life’s little wins, the decadent combo of juicy red meat and succulent seafood always creates an epic, share-worthy feast.

A cast iron pan filled with some surf and turf.

With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow guidelines from my killer recipes, you can elevate your backyard grilling game to expert cook status in no time. Stoked as ever, I can’t wait to share my roundup of favorite steak and seafood recipes with you. Check out each recipe card for fresh ideas and new methods to master this all-American favorite.

Why You’ll Love Surf and Turf Recipes

A freakin’ delicious cut of meat paired with succulent seafood is, without a doubt, my idea of food heaven. Plus, Surf and Turf recipes are an amazing way to feel fancy at home without the need to dine out. Why choose between steak or seafood, when we can simply have both!

By combining high-quality ingredients like tender ribeye steaks or a NY strip with jumbo shrimp or buttery lobster, you’ll create a satisfying main course that hits all the right notes. Just add in your favorite bottle of wine and you’ve got not just a fantastic meal, but also the makings of some incredible memories.

History of Surf and Turf

Traditionally, chefs often paired filet mignon or ribeye steak with lobster tail on the Surf and Turf menu. They chose these cuts for their tenderness and then, of course, the rich flavor, perfectly complementing the delicate, buttery taste of lobster. This combination not only highlights the best qualities of both the steak and seafood but also creates a luxurious dining experience that continues to stand the test of time.

Steak and shrimp grilled over the fire.

Filet mignon, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, and ribeye, prized for its marbling and bold flavor, quickly became the standard in many upscale restaurants when serving Surf and Turf. As a result this luxurious combo, a symbol of indulgence, was a staple of high-end steakhouses. Over time, it solidified its status as a go-to choice for those seeking a truly decadent dining experience.

For some more tips on how to cook the perfect steak, jump on over to How to Get a Crust on Steak. If you’re looking for more info on the seafood front, you can also check out my Grilled Shrimp Recipes and Best Lobster Tail Recipes!

Versatile Surf and Turf Recipes

As you’ll see from the roundup of my favorite recipes, creating a unique twist on the traditional Surf and Turf is easy to accomplish if you know how. Whether you’re whipping up hibachi, tacos, or nachos, the combinations and possibilities are endless. Plus, no matter which seafood you choose—be it shrimp scampi, creamy garlic scallops, or even crab cakes—every meal can transform into something extraordinary. And the best part? You get to skip the stuffy restaurant and chill out in your own backyard.

Cooking some steak pinwheels on the grill and lobster in a cast iron wok.

Surf and Turf Recipes Roundup

Ready to dive into some mouthwatering Surf and Turf recipes? Then, get ready, because this culinary adventure is one you won’t want to miss!

TIMELESS classics

This roundup isn’t just about the classic steak and seafood combo—it’s about taking those timeless flavors and giving them a modern spin. Whether you’re a fan of the tried-and-true or looking to experiment with something new, these recipes have got you covered. Get ready to fire up the grill and enjoy a feast with bold and unforgettable flavors and textures.

Surf and Turf

Grilled Surf and Turf

Perfectly grilled Porterhouse steaks paired with lobster tails get seasoned with garlic and a spicy kick from red chili flakes.
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Surf and Turf Fajitas plated and ready to serve.

Surf and Turf Fajitas

Surf and Turf Fajitas for the best of land and sea.
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Surf and Turf Habachi is an epic recipe with the most satisfying umami flavors.

Surf and Turf Hibachi

This Surf and Turf Hibachi recipe takes filet mignon, shrimp, and day-old leftover white rice to another level of umami deliciousness.
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Grilled Steaks and Creamy Chipotle Shrimp

Grilled Steaks and Creamy Chipotle Shrimp

The creamy chipotle shrimp is the perfect complement to juicy NY Strip steaks.
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Cajun steak and shrimp alfredo, served and ready to eat.

Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

This Cajun steak and shrimp alfredo recipe is a delicious, fun pasta dish for the whole family.
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Wood Plank Surf and Turf

Wood Plank Surf and Turf Recipe

This recipe features Wagyu beef and crab legs that are perfectly seasoned and grilled.
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Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Recipe

Grilled Steak & Shrimp with Garlic Herb Butter

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Valentines Day Surf and Turf

Ribeyes And Bacon-Wrapped Scallops Recipe

This simple Valentine's Day Surf and Turf Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe over hot Cowboy Charcoal will put a smile on your significant other’s face.
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A plated shot of Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon with Garlic Shrimp.

Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon

Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon with delicious garlic shrimp on top is easy to make anytime on the grill.
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Bison Ribeye and Lobster Tails

Bison Ribeye and Lobster Tails

A special occasion meal that pairs bone-in bison ribeye with lobster tails for a rich, hearty dinner.
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Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter assembled on a cutting board and ready to serve.

Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter

This turf meal is taken to the next level with a rich, deep, and spicy umami sauce.
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Chili Butter Steak and Shrimp plated and served.

Chili Butter Steak and Shrimp

Turn up the heat with this spicy surf and turf recipe featuring citrusy chili butter over tender steak and shrimp.
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Steak and Lobster are a breeze to make in the Breeo Pizza Oven.

Steak and Lobster in a Pizza Oven

This is the best surf and turf dinner, with steak and lobster cooked to perfection in the Breeo pizza oven.
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The grilled steak with lobster Mac and cheese assembled and served.

Grilled Steak with Lobster Mac and Cheese

A comfort food classic with a luxurious twist, pairing grilled steak with creamy and spicy lobster mac & cheese.
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The Grilled Steak and Oysters plated and ready to serve.

Grilled Steaks and Oysters

Ribeyes are paired with New York strip steaks for a delectable meal.
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Steak with spicy oysters are the perfect feast for two!

Steak with Oysters

Steak with Oysters smothered in spicy garlic Cowboy Butter is a fantastic recipe that's perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Thanks to the Breeo Y Series the cooking process is a breeze.
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Surf & Turf with a Fun Twist

Ready to shake things up? Well, these next-level Surf and Turf recipes are all about putting a fun twist on the classic combo. Rather than sticking to the usual steak and lobster pairing, these dishes take the Surf and Turf idea and run with it, incorporating unexpected ingredients, creative cooking techniques, and bold flavors.

Whether you’re grilling up smashburger tacos or layering steak and shrimp on nachos, these recipes are designed to delight your taste buds. It’s all about reimagining the traditional Surf and Turf and transforming it into something fresh, exciting, and absolutely delicious. So, get ready to elevate your cooking game with these fun, flavor-packed takes on a culinary classic!

A Surf and Turf Smashburger Taco being held up close to the camera so you can see it's different ingredients.

Surf and Turf Smashburger Tacos

Crispy beef steak smashburgers meet succulent shrimp in these taco-inspired delights.
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Surf and Turf Sandwich sliced in half so you can see the inside layers.

Surf and Turf Sandwich

This sandwich features some grilled steaks, shrimp and a creamy parmesan sauce that we’ll cook right over the coals.
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Final Surf and Turf Pinwheels

Surf and Turf Pinwheels

Rolled and stuffed skirt steak cooked all on the Breeo sear plate till perfect. Surf and Turf Pinwheels is the best of both worlds.
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Crispy Steak and Shrimp Tacos served on a plate.

Crispy Steak and Shrimp Tacos

These tacos combine crispy steak, shrimp, and sweet and spicy avocado salsa for a satisfying crunch in every bite.
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Surf and Turf Jalapeño Poppers with Cilantro Chimichurri plated and served

Surf and Turf Jalapeño Poppers

Indulge in the jalapeno poppers stuffed with a cream cheese mixture, BBQ shrimp, and wrapped it all in bacon. Yum!
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Loaded Steak Fries with Shrimp.

Loaded Steak Fries with Shrimp

Fries loaded with steak, shrimp, and melted cheese are the ultimate twist on the surf and turf dinner.
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Chimichurri Steak & Shrimp Cooked Over the Fire

Chimichurri Steak & Shrimp

Chimichurri Steak & Shrimp is not your father's version of the classic Surf & Turf dish. Instead, perfectly grilled filet mignon, smoky bacon, and succulent shrimp are leveled up by a zesty chimichurri sauce. 
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Surf and Turf Butter Burger

Surf and Turf Butter Burger

A buttery burger topped with garlic butter shrimp creates a surf and turf recipe like no other.
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Fajita steak pinwheels, grilled and ready to eat.

Fajita Steak Pinwheels

Fajita steak pinwheels are a fun, easy take on surf and turf that make for real crowd pleaser. The spicy butter is out of this world!
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platter full of surf and turf nachos with a margarita in the background

Surf and Turf Nachos

These Surf and Turf Nachos are tortilla chips drizzled with nacho cheese and layered with sautéed shrimp, juicy steak, and more.
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What to Serve with Surf and Turf

Lastly, are you wondering what to serve with your perfect meat and seafood combo? Simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, red potatoes, and then maybe a fresh salad work beautifully. For an added zing, lemon zest and black pepper are also great ways to elevate the flavors. And don’t forget to serve your compound butter or garlic butter sauce on the side for dipping. Because, seriously, life’s too short not to.

Adding the sauce to the surf and turf sandwich.

How to Handle Leftovers & Reheating

Got leftovers? No worries—they can still be delicious! Steak can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. On the other hand, seafood is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. The best way to reheat your Surf and Turf is by wrapping it in aluminum foil before warming it gently over medium heat on the grill. This method helps retain moisture and ensures your meal stays flavorful without overcooking.

More Steak and Seafood Recipes

FAQs

What’s the best way to ensure my steak and shrimp are cooked to the right level of doneness?

To achieve the perfect level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For a medium-doneness steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135 degrees F. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink and opaque, usually when they reach an internal temperature of 120 degrees. Remember to let your steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Can I prepare Surf and Turf ahead of time for a dinner party?

Absolutely! You can prep ingredients like marinating your steak and seafood or making your compound butter in advance. If you’re cooking multiple Surf and Turf dishes, consider grilling the steaks first. You can then reheat them over the medium-heat grill wrapped in aluminum foil just before serving. Seafood like shrimp and scallops can be quickly seared just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and succulent.

How do I pick the best seafood for my Surf and Turf recipes?

When selecting seafood for your Surf and Turf, freshness is key. Look for shrimp, scallops, or lobster that have a clean, ocean-like smell—avoid any that have a strong, fishy odor. For shrimp, opt for jumbo shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a slightly translucent appearance. When buying scallops, choose ones that are dry (not soaking in water) and have a creamy, slightly off-white color. If you’re going for lobster, live lobster is always the freshest option, but if that’s not available, frozen lobster tails can be a great alternative. Always ask your seafood provider about the best options available if you’re unsure!

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Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread

Raise your hand if you always go for the crunchy shrimp appetizer at parties. For those of you like me…

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Garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread

Raise your hand if you always go for the crunchy shrimp appetizer at parties. For those of you like me with your hands in the air, these garlic butter shrimp will rise to the top of your easy shrimp recipes list.

Our tangy twist is inspired by freakin’ delicious Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp, and we’re using flour to get that super crispy outer crunch. This easy garlic butter shrimp recipe makes a great appetizer for all you seafood lovers, or even as part of a main course with bread, pasta or white rice. 

Garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Shrimp

Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp is famous because of its crunch and the best flavor, with lots of fresh garlic and citrus. You can find it at food trucks all over the island! Because we want to do this recipe justice, we use all-purpose flour to get that crunch. The crunch has another purpose here: it creates lots of craggy texture for the garlic butter to cling to the shrimp.

We don’t use white wine here, which is generally in buttery shrimp recipes like this one. If you feel like you’re missing it, you can certainly add it in, or even use beer or chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. 

For a roundup of my favorite seafood recipes, make sure to also check out Best Lobster Tail Recipes and Grilled Shrimp Recipes.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients

This easy recipe has an simple ingredients list to go with it!

  • Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Garlic, minced, and lots of it
  • My Smoked Garlic Jalapeño Lager Rub, which kicks up that delicious garlic flavor
  • Unsalted butter and a little olive oil
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Chopped green onions for our garnish
Seasoning shrimp with Smoked Garlic Jalapeno Rub

Fresh or Frozen Shrimp? 

Here’s a little secret: the “fresh” shrimp you see at your local supermarket were most likely already frozen, then defrosted at the fish counter. When fisherman catch shrimp, they freeze them on the boats within a very short time of being out of the water. That move keeps that shrimp flavor from when they were caught. So, unless you’re sure the so-called fresh shrimp you’re seeing for our garlicky shrimp are right off the boat, you’re better off buying frozen shrimp. 

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp

Bring your fire to medium-high heat (around 350 degrees Fahrenheit) for direct cooking. Next, add a large skillet — preferably cast iron — to the fire for about a minute before you start cooking.

Pat your 1.5 pounds of shrimp completely dry, then generously season the raw shrimp with 1/4 cup Smoked Garlic Jalapeño Lager Rub (or your favorite seafood rub) and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. 

Cooking shrimp in a skillet

Next, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter to melt in the skillet. Then, add the 1/4 cup minced garlic and let it brown for 90 seconds. Once the garlic has browned, add your shrimp in batches to the skillet. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan and cook those shrimp for about 90 seconds on the first side.

Flip the shrimp over, stir and continue to cook the shrimp for another 1-2 minutes until fully done. It should only take about 2-3 minutes to cook the shrimp. When the sauteed shrimp are done, pull the whole skillet off the fire to cool.

Garnish the skillet with chopped green onions, juice from 1 medium lemon and crusty bread. Serve and enjoy!

The served, final dish.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp

These lemony garlic butter shrimp are a great appetizer, but you can easily turn them into a complete meal. For an easy and delicious dinner, serve with the crusty bread I recommend and a simple green salad. You could also serve the garlic butter shrimp white rice, cauliflower rice, your favorite pasta shape or zucchini noodles. 

Leftovers and Reheating

Because you don’t want to lose that crunch, these succulent shrimp are best eaten on the day they’re made. Still, if you do end up with leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. Once you’re ready to eat, heat them in a 350-degree oven or your air fryer for 5-10 minutes. Just enough to warm them up!

For More Shrimp

FAQs

What size shrimp should I use for garlic butter shrimp? 

The selection for your favorite shrimp recipes can be overwhelming! You’ll see mini, medium, large, jumbo and colossal at the grocery store. All these sizes also have a number on them, which details how many shrimp you get per pound.

Smaller shrimp tend to be best for pastas or salads. For dishes like this, where the shrimp is the star, you want to go big for the size of your shrimp. For that reason, a larger shrimp like jumbo shrimp are the best, which gets you 21-25 shrimp per pound.

How do I peel and devein shrimp? 

To clean the shrimp for this lemon garlic butter shrimp recipe, you’ll need to remove the shell and use a paring knife to make a small slit along the back of the shrimp. Then, use the tip of the knife to get under the vein and gently pull it out.

I can think of fewer people out there who have cooked more shrimp than Emeril Lagasse. He’s got a great step-by-step video to show you how to do it!

If I go that route, what kind of beer or wine should I use to deglaze the pan?

Because white wine is classic here, you can’t go wrong with using that liquid. If you choose beer, I think a light lager would be perfect, since the flavor would pair nicely with the Smoked Jalapeño Lager Rub!

Garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread
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Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a tangy twist on Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp, with great garlic-citrus flavor and a crispy crunch.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 2 people
Calories 857kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs Shrimp peeled & deveined
  • 1/4 cup Minced Garlic
  • 2 tbsp All Purpose Flour
  • 1/4 cup Smoked Garlic Jalapeno Lager Rub
  • 6 tbsp Butter unsalted
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Lemon juiced
  • Chopped Green Onions garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat a medium high heat fire (around 350F) for direct cooking. Add a cast iron skillet to the fire about 1 minute before cooking.
  • Pat your shrimp completely dry, then generously season with Smoked Garlic Jalapeno Lager Rub (or your favorite seafood rub) and your flour.
  • First, add your olive oil and butter to melt in the skillet. Next, add the minced garlic and let it brown for 90 seconds.
  • Add your shrimp in batches to the skillet (make sure to not overcrowd the pan) and cook for about 90 seconds on the first side. Flip the shrimp over.
  • Continue to cook the shrimp for another 1-2 minutes until fully done. When the shrimp are done, pull the whole skillet off the fire to cool.
  • Garnish the skillet with chopped green onions, lemon juice and crusted bread. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Fresh or Frozen Shrimp? 
Here’s a little secret: the “fresh” shrimp you see at your local supermarket were most likely already frozen, then defrosted at the fish counter. When fisherman catch shrimp, they freeze them on the boats within a very short time of being out of the water. That move keeps that shrimp flavor from when they were caught. So, unless you’re sure the so-called fresh shrimp you’re seeing for our garlicky shrimp are right off the boat, you’re better off buying frozen shrimp. 

Nutrition

Calories: 857kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 74g | Fat: 51g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 638mg | Sodium: 685mg | Potassium: 1452mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1225IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 405mg | Iron: 6mg

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