My Surf and Turf video went viral three years running, and even Snoop Dogg shared @themoodyfoody’s Surf and Turf on his Instagram. I’m often called the Surf and Turf expert. I prefer intimate, home-cooked meals—steakhouses can be overpriced and impersonal. This recipe is designed to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen.
P.S. Use excellent ingredients. When you’re making a special meal, invest in high-quality components and prepare it for someone worth the effort.
Why everyone loves this Surf and Turf recipe
- It’s easy to make – Beginner-friendly. Once you master searing the steak, the rest is straightforward.
It’s perfect for special moments – This is a celebratory dish ideal for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, or any night you want to make memorable. Serve this when you want a fantastic evening.
Tips for making the perfect steak
- Choose high-quality ingredients – Use excellent steak cuts such as NY Strip, ribeye, T-bone, or bone-in sirloin. Good salted butter and fresh herbs elevate the flavor; choose a rich butter when possible.
- Use the right equipment – A heavy cast iron skillet gives the best sear and helps create restaurant-quality crust and flavor.
- Cook on high heat – A proper sear creates depth of flavor. High heat is your friend for developing a beautiful crust.
- Take your time – This recipe rewards patience and attention. Follow the steps carefully and you’ll improve your home-cooking skills quickly.
Temperature chart for steaks
Use a thermometer as a guide to reach your preferred level of doneness.
Surf N Turf
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 2 steaks (ribeye or NY strip recommended)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or any high-heat oil)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 cloves garlic
- 6 sprigs rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the mashed potatoes
- 3 lbs red potatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 8 tbsp butter
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 3 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
For the creamy shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp (jumbo, 13-15 count preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp parsley
Instructions
- Let steaks come to room temperature for 20 minutes. While they rest, prepare any compound butter you want to use.
- Season steaks generously with salt and pepper and let rest 10 minutes after seasoning.
- Heat a cast iron skillet until very hot. Add avocado oil and 2 tbsp butter.
- Sear the steaks 2 minutes per side to build a crust, then flip.
- Add 2 more tbsp butter, the garlic, and rosemary. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks continuously for 3–5 minutes to baste and flavor the meat.
- Optional: Transfer steaks to a 375°F oven to finish to your desired doneness. Use a thermometer for accuracy. If you prefer rarer steak, you can let the steaks rest while you finish the shrimp.
Mashed potatoes
- Cut potatoes into quarters and boil until tender.
- In a small saucepan, bring butter, spices, heavy cream, and Parmesan to a gentle simmer.
- Drain the potatoes, then slowly add the warm cream mixture while mashing until smooth and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and adjust seasoning to taste.
Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry. Sauté shrimp in butter over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until they start to turn pink.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and parsley. Simmer on low until the shrimp are cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Nutrition
Calories: 981 kcal (approximate)
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.