Surf and Turf recipe
Surf and Turf is a classic combo that brings together the best of both land and sea. Think juicy, tender steak paired perfectly with succulent shrimp or lobster. It’s a…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Surf and Turf is a classic combo that brings together the best of both land and sea. Think juicy, tender steak paired perfectly with succulent shrimp or lobster. It’s a dish that combines rich, meaty flavors with the fresh, slightly sweet taste of seafood, making every bite feel like a special treat.
I love making Surf and Turf when I want to impress guests or just treat myself to a little something fancy without spending all day in the kitchen. One of my favorite things about it is how easy it is to customize — you can swap in your favorite cut of steak or pick seafood that you love. Plus, it’s always fun to watch people’s faces light up when they see this combo on their plate!
My go-to way to serve Surf and Turf is with a simple side of roasted vegetables and a buttery garlic sauce to tie everything together. It’s a meal that feels hearty and satisfying but still special enough for celebrations or cozy dinners at home. Whenever I make it, I feel like I’m bringing a little bit of luxury to the table, and that makes it all the better.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Filet Mignon: This cut is tender and cooks quickly, making it ideal for Surf and Turf. If you prefer, ribeye or strip steak are great alternatives that offer more marbling and bold flavor.
Lobster Tails: They bring that sweet, delicate seafood taste. You can swap lobster with large shrimp or scallops if lobster isn’t available or is too pricey.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds richness and garlic brings bright, savory notes. Use olive oil for a lighter option or vegan butter if needed.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and chives add freshness and color. If you don’t have these, dried herbs work, but fresh is best for flavor and garnish.
How Do I Cook Steaks and Lobster Tails Perfectly Together?
Timing is key so both surf and turf finish perfectly without overcooking.
- Start with lobster tails under the broiler or grill since they take around 5–7 minutes.
- While lobster cooks, prep and season your steaks.
- Sear steaks in a hot pan for about 4–5 minutes per side (for medium-rare).
- During the last minutes, add butter, garlic, and herbs to baste steaks—for extra flavor.
- Rest your steaks for 5 minutes; meanwhile, finish the garlic herb butter sauce.
- Serve lobster and steak with butter sauce on top or for dipping.
Resting lets the juices redistribute in the steak, keeping it tender and juicy. Keep an eye on lobster so it doesn’t dry out. The butter sauce adds moisture and ties all the flavors together for a delicious meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – great for searing steaks evenly and holding high heat.
- Kitchen scissors – to easily cut lobster shells without hassle.
- Small saucepan – perfect for melting butter and infusing garlic and herbs.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook steak to your preferred doneness accurately.
- Tongs – make flipping steaks and lobster tails safe and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap filet mignon for ribeye if you want a richer, fattier steak with more flavor.
- Use jumbo shrimp or scallops instead of lobster tails for a quicker, budget-friendly option.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne to the garlic butter for a subtle smoky heat.
- Include grilled asparagus or roasted mushrooms on the side to add vegetables and extra texture.
Surf and Turf with Lobster Tail and Filet Mignon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
- 2 lobster tails
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend time prepping the lobster tails and steaks, cooking them carefully to get that perfect sear and tenderness, plus a few minutes to rest the steaks before serving. It’s a quick but impressive dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Lobster Tails:
Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the center of the lobster shells on top, stopping just before the tail fins. Gently lift the lobster meat out and lay it on top of the shell, keeping it attached at the tail. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook Lobster Tails:
Preheat your broiler or grill to medium-high. Brush the lobster meat with olive oil or melted butter. Broil or grill for 5-7 minutes, until the meat turns opaque and has a light char. Remove and keep warm.
3. Season and Cook Steaks:
Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When the pan is hot, sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. In the last 2 minutes, add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and half the parsley to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks as they cook for extra flavor.
4. Make Garlic Herb Butter:
In a small pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter with minced garlic over low heat until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining parsley and chopped chives.
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the steaks off the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes to keep them juicy. Drizzle the warm garlic herb butter over the steaks and lobster tails. Garnish with fresh chives, serve with lemon wedges if you like, and enjoy your delicious Surf and Turf!
Can I Use Frozen Lobster Tails for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw frozen lobster tails overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry to avoid extra moisture when cooking.
How Can I Tell When the Steak Is Done?
Use a meat thermometer for best results—medium-rare is about 130-135°F. Alternatively, cook for 4-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat, then rest the steak to allow juices to redistribute.
Can I Prepare This Meal Ahead of Time?
You can season the steaks and prep lobster tails a few hours in advance, but cook just before serving for the best flavor and texture. The garlic herb butter can be made ahead and gently reheated.
What Are Good Side Dishes for Surf and Turf?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad complement this dish beautifully. They help balance the rich flavors and round out the meal.