Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus with Steak: A Restaurant-Quality Surf & Turf Dinner at Home
If you’ve ever wanted to bring the magic of a five-star steakhouse into your own kitchen, this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus with Steak is your golden ticket. This mouthwatering recipe combines juicy, seared-to-perfection steak, buttery garlic shrimp, and crisp-tender roasted asparagus into a plate that’s not only visually stunning but also outrageously flavorful.
Perfect for date nights, celebratory dinners, or anytime you want to treat yourself (and someone lucky), this surf-and-turf combo is surprisingly easy to make at home. The dish is a protein powerhouse and pairs rich, savory flavors with fresh, bright notes from lemon and herbs. Plus, it all comes together in under an hour—yes, really!
Let’s break it all down.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish was made for:
- Date night dreamers who want a no-reservations-needed kind of evening.
- Steak and seafood lovers craving the best of both worlds.
- Home cooks who want a straightforward, reliable, and incredibly rewarding recipe.
- Low-carb and keto eaters looking for a meal that’s indulgent yet macro-friendly.
It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough to enjoy on a Wednesday night. And the best part? You’ll only need one pan (and an oven sheet), keeping cleanup blissfully easy.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Steak:
- 2 rib-eye or filet mignon steaks (or your preferred cut)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe seamless, you’ll need:
- Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Baking sheet
- Tongs
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl (for tossing asparagus)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for resting steak)
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Asparagus
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss your trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and roast for 12–15 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside—this timing is perfect for keeping a little crunch while allowing the natural sweetness to shine.
2. Cook the Steak
Season your steaks generously with salt and black pepper. A good crust starts with proper seasoning!
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 3 minutes per side.
During the last minute, add 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic to the pan. Spoon that garlic-infused butter over the steaks to build layers of flavor. Remove steaks and let them rest for 5–10 minutes, tented loosely with foil.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Shrimp
In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Once melted, toss in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add your shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Add lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper, then toss to coat.
Remove from heat and let the flavors meld while you plate.
4. Assemble and Serve
Arrange roasted asparagus and sliced or whole steak on plates. Spoon the garlic butter shrimp right on top or beside the steak. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired.
Voilà! Your gourmet dinner is served.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Steak Options: Rib-eye offers marbled richness, while filet mignon brings tenderness. You can also use New York strip or even sirloin.
- Shrimp Swap: Don’t have shrimp? Try scallops or lobster tails for an elevated twist.
- Herb Boost: Add chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
- Extra Sauce: Love sauce? Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken stock before cooking the shrimp for added depth.
- Add a starch: While this dish is naturally low-carb, you can serve it over mashed cauliflower, garlic mashed potatoes, or rice for a more filling meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
- Shrimp: Use low heat to avoid overcooking—try a gentle stovetop reheat or microwave in 20-second bursts.
- Steak: Bring to room temperature and warm in a 250°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Asparagus: Best reheated in a pan or air fryer for crispness.
Avoid freezing this meal, as shrimp and asparagus can become rubbery or mushy once thawed.
Suggested Pairings
Wine:
- Red: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah complements the richness of the steak.
- White: A buttery Chardonnay pairs beautifully with garlic shrimp.
Sides:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Cauliflower purée
- Herbed rice or risotto
- Simple mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette
Dessert:
End with something light but indulgent, like chocolate-dipped strawberries or panna cotta with berries.
FAQs
Can I cook everything in one pan?
Yes! Use the same skillet for the steak and shrimp. Just wipe out excess oil between steps if needed.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap butter for olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Flavor will differ slightly, but you’ll still get great results.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer for precision:
- Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
- Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
- Medium-well: 150–155°F (65–68°C)
Let it rest to finish cooking and retain juices.
What if I don’t like asparagus?
Swap it out with green beans, broccoli, zucchini, or even a side salad.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus with Steak recipe is more than a meal—it’s an experience. A dish that delivers big restaurant flavors without the bill, without the wait, and right from your own kitchen. With a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, it’s a go-to for special occasions and everyday luxury alike.
