Craving a dinner that satisfies all your senses? Look no further than garlic butter steak and shrimp! This dish combines tender ribeye steaks and plump shrimp, all drizzled in rich garlic butter. It’s a meal that’s simple yet gourmet, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Join me as we dive into the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to make this flavorful dinner delight a hit on your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasoning Elements
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Fresh arugula or spinach for serving
For the main ingredients, I love using ribeye steaks. They are tender and juicy, perfect for this dish. Large shrimp add a nice sweetness and contrast to the rich steak flavor. Unsalted butter creates a smooth garlic sauce that ties everything together.
In the seasoning elements, garlic shines as the star. It brings depth and warmth. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Smoked paprika gives a subtle smokiness that enhances the dish. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper for balance.
For optional ingredients, lemon slices add brightness. They cut through the richness of the butter. Fresh arugula or spinach can serve as a lovely bed for the steak and shrimp. This adds a healthy touch to your dinner.
You can find the full recipe in the earlier sections. Feel free to mix and match these flavors. This dish is all about making it your own!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak
To start, generously season both sides of your ribeye steaks. Use salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This adds depth to the flavor. Set the seasoned steaks aside while you prep the shrimp.
When cooking the steak, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it bubbles. Place the seasoned steaks in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the time if you prefer your steak more or less done. Once cooked, move the steaks to a plate. Cover them with foil to keep them warm while you cook the shrimp.
Cooking the Shrimp
Next, let’s prep the shrimp. In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This simple mix enhances their natural taste.
In the same skillet used for the steak, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell the garlic aroma. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. They are ready when they turn pink and opaque.
Combining and Serving
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Return the steaks to the skillet with the cooked shrimp. Spoon some of the garlic butter over both the steaks and shrimp. Let them cook together for one more minute to marry the flavors.
For serving, slice the ribeye steaks and place them on a platter. Arrange the shrimp on top of the steak. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color. If you like, serve this dish over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach for added freshness. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
– Ideal skillet heat: Use medium-high heat for cooking. This heat sears the steak well. It locks in the juices. The shrimp also cooks fast and stays tender.
– Importance of resting steak: Let the cooked steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you cut too soon, the juices run out. A rested steak is juicy and full of flavor.
Enhancing Flavor
– Additional spices to consider: You can play with spices. Try adding cayenne for heat. A dash of thyme or rosemary adds a nice twist. Experiment with your favorites to create unique flavors.
– How to adjust cooking time for doneness: For medium-rare steak, cook 4-5 minutes per side. For medium, aim for 6-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. A temperature of 135°F means medium-rare, while 145°F is medium.
Presentation Insights
– Visual appeal on the plate: Plate the steak and shrimp in a way that looks nice. Slice the steak and place it on one side. Arrange the shrimp on top to create height. This makes the dish more inviting.
– Garnishing ideas: Use fresh parsley for a pop of green. Lemon slices add color and brightness. You can also sprinkle some smoked paprika for a smoky look. These small touches enhance the dish’s appeal.
For more guidance, check the Full Recipe to get all the details you need!
Variations
Protein Substitutes
You can switch out the steak and shrimp for other proteins. Chicken breast is a great choice. It cooks well and takes on flavor nicely. You can also use firm tofu for a plant-based option. It soaks up the garlic butter well, making it delicious.
For those who prefer seafood, try scallops or salmon. Both add a unique taste and texture. If you want a vegetarian dish, mushrooms work well. Portobello or shiitake mushrooms give a meaty feel.
Flavor Additions
Want to spice things up? Add a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. This gives a nice kick without overpowering the dish. You can also experiment with herbs. Try fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. They enhance the garlic butter flavor perfectly.
For a zesty touch, consider adding lemon zest. It brightens the dish and adds freshness. Mix and match these flavors to make the dish your own.
Side Dish Pairings
Pair your garlic butter steak and shrimp with simple sides. Roasted vegetables complement the rich flavors nicely. Try asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for a colorful plate.
You might also enjoy a light salad. A mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette works well. It balances the richness of the steak and shrimp.
For a heartier option, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes. They soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully. You can find the full recipe for garlic butter steak and shrimp to make this delightful dinner.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Techniques
To store your Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents odors from mixing in your fridge. Leftovers will stay good for 2 to 3 days. Always let the dish cool before sealing it. This helps avoid condensation inside the container.
Reheating Tips
When reheating steak and shrimp, I recommend using a skillet. Heat it on low to medium heat. Add a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Place the steak in first, cooking for about 2 minutes on each side. Then add the shrimp, cooking for about 1 minute until heated through. This method helps keep the meat juicy and tender. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to overcooked and tough meat.
Freezing Guidance
You can freeze the steak and shrimp if you want to save leftovers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn. The dish can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. If you need it fast, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting, but be careful not to start cooking it. Always reheat thoroughly for safety.
FAQs
How do I know when the steak is cooked to medium-rare?
To check if your steak is medium-rare, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 130°F to 135°F. You can also use visual cues. Look for a warm, red center. The juices should run slightly pink when you cut into it.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for quick thawing. Cook them as you would fresh shrimp. Be aware that frozen shrimp may need a minute longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for garlic if I have an allergy?
If you’re allergic to garlic, try using shallots. They add a mild onion flavor. You can also use garlic-infused oil for some flavor without the actual garlic. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can help keep the dish balanced and tasty.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious dish with ribeye steaks and shrimp. You learned about the key ingredients, from main choices to optional add-ins. I shared simple steps for cooking each component and serving them together for a great meal.
Remember, tweaking flavors and trying different proteins adds fun to your cooking. Enjoy experimenting and impressing your friends with your skills!
