What to Serve with Steak and Shrimp: 11 Super Delicious Side Dishes

Last updated on September 10th, 2024

Often called surf and turf, garlic butter steak and shrimp bring together the bold richness of steak with the delicate sweetness of shrimp. While the rich proteins stand on their own, a side dish or two wouldn’t hurt. In fact, it can enhance your meal! Let’s dive into a few simple yet delicious sides that perfectly complement steak and shrimp.

What is Surf and Turf?

Surf and turf recipe is essentially describing both land and sea on a plate. It’s a steak (turf) with a type of seafood like shrimp, prawns, lobster, or crab legs (which would make the surf). Often they share a sauce like garlic butter sauce to join the flavors of meat and seafood.

This recipe can be served with surf atop turf or turf alongside surf. If one is slightly larger than the other, then you may want to serve them side by side.

Surf and Turf Recipe

Steak and shrimp cook at varying rates, so it’s best to cook the steak first, then while the steak rests, cook the shrimp. The shrimp and steak are cooked in a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Finishing with a generous amount of garlic and herb butter. This shrimp and steak dish is perfect to serve at special occasions or dinner parties to impress your guests with a fancy and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• New York steak strip steaks
• Jumbo shrimp
• Unsalted butter
• Minced garlic
• Chopped parsley
• Salt
• Pepper

Instructions

1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil over high heat in a large cast iron pan. Season the steak and shrimp with salt and pepper
2. Place the steak in a pan, cook for 7 minutes per side, till the desired steak level of doneness (use a meat thermometer to monitor the doneness)
3. Remove the steak from the pan and cover with foil to keep warm
4. Wipe the pan with paper towels, add some more oil to the pan
5. Add shrimp and cook till they turn pink or opaque
6. Remove the shrimp from the pan
7. Melt butter in the pan. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in a tablespoon of parsley
8. Place the steaks back into the pan, and arrange the shrimp on top of them
9. Spoon garlic butter sauce all over the steak and shrimp, then sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Steak Internal Temperature

The best way to tell whether your strip steak is done is to use a digital probe thermometer.

Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to see whether your steak has achieved the desired doneness.

Medium rare steak is quite popular with this kind of dish, but again it’s entirely up to you. Bear in mind that steaks should rest for 5 minutes before cutting into them.

Here’s the basic rundown of what the internal temperature of steaks should read:

• Rare: 130 degrees F
• Medium Rare: 135 degrees F
• Medium: 145 degrees F
• Medium Well: 150 degrees F
• Well Done: 160 degrees F

Steak and Shrimp Dinner Sides – 5 Ideas

You can use frozen shrimp for these variations, as long as you remember to thaw them beforehand.

Try these flavorful accompaniments to your steak and shrimp recipe, and let me know which is your favorite!

Garlic Butter Grilled Steak, Shrimp Asparagus

Grilled steak and shrimp combined with garlic butter create the perfect decadent flavors. My mouth is watering already!

• The first thing you’ll need to make this meal is to grill your steak. You need a hot grill with at least 450 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a perfectly grilled steak.
• Pat steaks dry, then season the steak with salt and pepper, as well as other powerful ingredients such as garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder.
• Then place the steak on the grill to begin cooking.
• After that, slather your steak with garlic butter to create the perfect garlic butter grilled steak.
• While the steak rests, grill your shrimp using the remaining butter.
• Once this is done, serve your steak with some grilled asparagus, as this will provide a delicious experience for your evening meal.

Sheet Pan Steak, Shrimp, Potatoes, and Broccoli

Before you begin, I recommend cooking the potatoes first, as they need to be pre-cook.

• Cut your potatoes into small pieces.
• Add olive oil, garlic powder, or salt and pepper.
• Transfer them to a sheet pan and cook for 15 minutes.
• Whilst they cook, start preparing the steaks and broccoli. Generously season the steak and broccoli using salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika.
• After that, remove the sheet pan from the oven, and add steak and broccoli to it.
• Allow your potatoes and steak to cook for 8 minutes.
• Season the shrimp and add it to the same pan with the potatoes and steak.
• Broil them until the shrimp is thoroughly cooked.
• Serve while hot.

Steak and Shrimp with Veggies

• Start by preheating your grill to a medium temperature.
• Season your steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasoning.
• Cut the veggies into small portions.
• Melt two tablespoons of butter with pepper and lemon in a pan and season the shrimp.
• Add the vegetables to a grill skillet, then add garlic, pepper, butter, and soy sauce.
• While the vegetables cook, sear the steak and place it over the heat along with the shrimp. When turning the shrimp, ensure that you brush it with pepper and butter.
• Toss the vegetables in this simple sauce, then serve the steak and shrimp over the vegetables.

Steak and Shrimp with Parmesan Sauce

For this meal, you should begin by making the sauce.

• Heat the heavy cream using a saucepan and simmer over low heat.
• Stir in basil, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
• While the sauce is prepared, season the steak according to your preference. Try not to use intense ingredients for your steak, as your sauce will have enough seasonings.
• Cook the steak using a grill or frying pan, then while the steak cooks, brush some butter and sprinkle some seasonings over the shrimp.
• Then grill the shrimp.
• Once it’s done, serve the steak with parmesan sauce and enjoy!

Steak, Shrimp and Parsley Potatoes

To prepare this meal, you’ll need to begin with cooking potatoes as they take longer to cook.

• Place potatoes in a pot of cold water. Add salt and let them boil for 8 minutes.
• Meanwhile, heat the oil in a skillet. Season your porterhouse steaks with salt, pepper, and other ingredients.
• When the oil begins to smoke, add the steak to the skillet, and allow it to cook till browned.
• While you’re waiting for the steak to cook, begin seasoning the shrimp.
• Once the steak is done, transfer it to a plate.
• Add shrimp to the skillet and cook till brown.
• Once the shrimp has cooked, transfer it to a plate and add the cooked potatoes. Cook and stir the potatoes till they start to break.
• Once properly cooked, serve the steak and shrimp with potatoes.

More Vegetable Sides

I don’t know about you, but I love incorporating veggies into my meals. Vegetables are good for you, and a cup of greens beside any meal is great.

So I want to share some vegetable sides for you to try!

Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus is a popular choice – easy and visually gorgeous.

To prepare:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
2. Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 12-15 minutes until tender-crisp with slightly charred tips.

For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus just before serving. This adds a bright, citrusy note that complements both steak and shrimp.

Steamed Broccoli

Broccoli is of course a versatile favorite – and for good reason! It just pairs well with various main dishes.

To prepare:

1. Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Steam for 5-7 minutes until crisp-tender.

To enhance flavor, toss the steamed broccoli with a small amount of butter and garlic powder. This simple addition increases the dish’s appeal without overshadowing the main course.

Grilled Zucchini

Zucchini is particularly suitable for grilling, making it an excellent choice for outdoor cooking. To prepare:

1. Slice zucchini lengthwise.
2. Brush with olive oil and season with herbs like oregano and basil.
3. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until tender with visible grill marks.

For a Mediterranean twist, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the grilled zucchini. This adds a tangy, salty element that complements the vegetable’s natural sweetness.

Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Rainbow carrots offer visual appeal and a range of flavors. To prepare:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, honey, and thyme.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes until caramelized and tender.

The natural sugars in the carrots will caramelize during roasting, resulting in a sweet and savory side dish. For added texture, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top before serving.

Sautéed Mushrooms

While technically fungi, mushrooms are often included in vegetable side dishes due to their earthy flavor and meaty texture. To prepare:

1. Slice cremini or button mushrooms.
2. Sauté in butter with a splash of Worcestershire sauce until golden-brown.

For additional depth of flavor, add a small amount of red wine to the pan towards the end of cooking. This enhances the mushrooms’ natural umami qualities.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach offers a rich, indulgent side dish that complements the textures of steak and shrimp. To prepare:

1. Wilt fresh spinach in a pan.
2. Prepare a cream sauce using butter, cream, and a pinch of nutmeg.
3. Fold the wilted spinach into the cream sauce.

For a subtle flavor change, add a small amount of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce. This provides a gentle heat that balances the dish’s richness.

Salads for a Fresh Break

No one can stop me from recommending even more vegetable sides – this time fresh!

Caesar Salad

To make a basic Caesar salad:

1. Chop fresh romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add croutons for crunch.
3. Toss with Caesar dressing.
4. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Tip: For a healthier version, use a yogurt-based Caesar dressing and whole grain croutons.

Mixed Greens

A mixed green salad is easy to customize.

Here’s one version to put together:

1. Choose a mix of greens like baby spinach, arugula, and lettuce.
2. Add cherry tomatoes and cucumber for freshness.
3. Include thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor.
4. Dress lightly with a simple vinaigrette.

Tip: Prepare the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. If making ahead, store the dressing separately and add it at the last minute.

Arugula Salad

To make an arugula salad:

1. Use fresh arugula as the base.
2. Add shaved Parmesan cheese for a salty touch.
3. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
4. Dress with a light lemon vinaigrette.

Tip: Toast pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown. This enhances their flavor and crunch.

Starchy Side Ideas

Mashed Potatoes

To make restaurant-quality mashed potatoes:

1. Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture.
2. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender.
3. Drain and mash with warm milk, butter, and a touch of cream.
4. Season with salt, white pepper, and a hint of garlic powder.

For an extra touch, fold in some roasted garlic or fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving.

Wild Rice Pilaf

This pilaf soaks up any juices from the steak. It’s gonna be so, good, I promise.

Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Rinse wild rice thoroughly before cooking.
2. Cook in chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.
3. Sauté diced onions, celery, and carrots in butter.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fold in the sautéed vegetables.
5. Add toasted almonds or pecans for crunch.
6. Season with thyme, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This is admittedly indulgent, but it’s worth it:

1. Cook fettuccine or linguine until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in butter.
3. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce.
6. Finish with freshly ground black pepper and chopped parsley.

The creamy texture provides a pleasant contrast to the textures of the steak and shrimp, while the garlic and parmesan are sure to enhance the existing flavors.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a popular choice to serve with many things, including steak and shrimp.

1. Choose a crusty baguette or Italian loaf
2. Mix softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley
3. Spread the mixture on sliced bread
4. Bake until golden and crispy

Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

Dinner Rolls

Soft dinner rolls are another excellent option. They’re great for soaking up sauces and juices from your steak and shrimp.

You can make them at home or (if you’re like me who wants to just eat asap) buy them from a bakery. To serve:

1. Warm the rolls in the oven for a few minutes before serving
2. Provide softened butter on the side

Tip: Leftover rolls can be used to make mini steak sandwiches the next day.

Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread’s slightly tangy flavor pairs well with savory foods. Its chewy texture also adds variety to.

To serve sourdough:

1. Slice the bread thickly
2. Toast lightly before serving
3. Optionally, rub each slice with a clove of garlic for extra flavor

Tip: Sourdough is particularly good for mopping up any sauce left on your plate.

Sauces and Condiments

Steak and shrimp make a wonderful combination, but when slathered in sauce, the flavors become something else.

Chimichurri

Chimichurri is an Argentinian sauce that pairs well with steak and adds a fresh, herby flavor to shrimp.

Here’s a simple recipe:

• In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh oregano, 3 garlic cloves, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, and 1/2 cup olive oil
• Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed
• Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

Spoon this sauce over your steak and shrimp just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Hollandaise

While it’s traditionally used for eggs Benedict, it also complements surf and turf well.

Make this in your blender:

• In a blender, combine 3 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt
• Melt 1/2 cup butter until hot
• With the blender running, slowly pour in the hot butter
• Blend until the sauce is thick and creamy

Pour the warm sauce over your steak and shrimp just before serving.

Cocktail Sauce

You can easily make it at home:

• Mix 1 cup ketchup with 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• Add 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and a squeeze of lemon juice
• Adjust the horseradish to your preferred level of spiciness

Serve this sauce cold as a dip for your shrimp. Some people enjoy it with steak as well.

Béarnaise

Béarnaise sauce is similar to hollandaise but includes herbs, making it particularly good with steak.

Try this simplified version:

• In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup white wine vinegar, 1/4 cup white wine, 1 shallot (minced), and 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon
• Reduce the mixture by half, then strain and cool
• Follow the hollandaise recipe above, adding the reduced mixture to the egg yolks before blending

What to Serve with Steak and Shrimp – Lots of Delicious Things, Actually!

Steak and shrimp are a powerful duo, but the right sides can make them shine even more. There’s plenty of room to get creative with your pairings. Don’t hesitate to find the one you love the most!

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