For a luxurious and mouthwatering dinner, this Steak and Seafood Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce is the ultimate indulgence. Combining tender ribeye steak, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, this dish brings surf and turf to your table in the most delicious way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: This skillet combines steakhouse elegance with the simplicity of homemade comfort.
- Versatile: Use your favorite cut of steak and pair with shrimp or your preferred seafood.
- Creamy, Tangy Sauce: The Parmesan and lemon garlic cream sauce is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for date nights or special family dinners.
Ingredients for Steak and Seafood Skillet
For the Main Components:
- Ribeye Steak (1.5 lbs): Or substitute with your favorite cut like filet mignon or sirloin.
- Jumbo Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for convenience.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing the steak.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and flavor to the shrimp and sauce.
For the Seasoning:
- 1.5 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)
- ½ cup broth (beef, chicken, seafood, or vegetable)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Steak
- Season the steak with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust cooking time for your preferred doneness).
- Remove the steak from the skillet, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and red pepper flakes, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
- Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the steak and shrimp to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish.
- Serve hot, paired with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Steak and Seafood Skillet
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet holds heat well and creates a perfect sear for the steak.
- Cook Steak to Perfection: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Fresh Parmesan Only: Grate Parmesan from a block for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery. Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Custom Broth Choice: Use beef broth for a deeper flavor or seafood broth to highlight the shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of seafood?
Absolutely! Scallops or lobster tails are excellent substitutes for shrimp.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.
What side dishes go well with this skillet?
Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, so add a bit of liquid when reheating.
Conclusion: A Luxurious Surf and Turf Meal
This Steak and Seafood Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce is a meal that feels special yet is simple enough for home cooking. Juicy steak, tender shrimp, and a rich, creamy sauce come together for an unforgettable dish. Perfect for celebrations, date nights, or just when you’re craving something indulgent, this skillet recipe is sure to impress!