If you’re craving a dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, the Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak & Shrimp Skillet Recipe is your perfect answer. Imagine juicy bites of tender steak mingling with succulent shrimp, all tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce that sizzles in the pan. Whether it’s a special date night or a quick but luxurious dinner at home, this harmonious surf-and-turf skillet brings restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. It’s a celebration of bold tastes and simple techniques that anyone can master in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view shows a white marbled surface with 11 small clear glass bowls arranged neatly; one bowl contains thinly sliced light brown mushrooms, another has a creamy white liquid, another some yellow honey, and two bowls have white minced garlic cloves and butter cubes, respectively. There is a bowl with chopped fresh green herbs, a bowl with black pepper, a bowl with salt, and a bowl with a mix of white and black pepper. A white plate holds two raw red steaks with visible white marbling of fat. The ingredients are all spread out evenly for preparation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the hearty steak to the delicate shrimp, and the aromatic garlic butter sauce, these essentials come together to create an unforgettable meal.

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces: Choose a well-marbled cut for tender, juicy bites that sear beautifully.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Opt for large shrimp (16–20 count) for the best texture and presentation.
1 tsp salt: Enhances natural flavors in both the steak and shrimp.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
½ tsp paprika: Offers a gentle smoky touch and rich color to the steak.
½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic notes already present in the sauce.
1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a perfect searing surface without burning the steak or shrimp.
4 tbsp unsalted butter: The base for that luscious, silky garlic butter sauce.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for an irresistible aroma and flavor.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a touch of heat to complement the richness.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the buttery richness.
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, herbaceous finish that adds color and vibrancy.

How to Make Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak & Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Proteins

Start by patting the steak and shrimp dry with paper towels — this simple step is key to getting that perfect sear later on. Then season the steak generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, making sure every bite is bursting with flavor. The shrimp gets a lighter seasoning of salt and pepper, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through in harmony with the bold steak.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet until shimmering. Add the steak pieces in a single layer to ensure a beautiful crust forms. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set them aside. This step locks in the steak’s juiciness and creates those coveted caramelized edges.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet (no need to clean it), add your shrimp. Because the pan is already hot and flavorful from the steak, the shrimp will cook quickly—just 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl up slightly. Remove and set aside to keep warm.

Step 4: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

Turn down the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. This moment fills your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma that’s far too tempting to ignore. Stir in red pepper flakes and fresh lemon juice to bring a subtle kick and bright zest that beautifully balance the rich butter.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the steak and shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the luxurious garlic butter sauce so they’re all coated evenly. Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the most sizzling experience possible!

How to Serve Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak & Shrimp Skillet Recipe

The image shows a white plate filled with three types of grilled food arranged in sections. At the top left, there are dark brown grilled beef cubes with visible grill marks, stacked in two layers and garnished with small bits of green herbs. To the right of the beef, there is a small pile of bright green leafy vegetables. Below the beef and vegetables, the plate has two rows of orange grilled shrimp with a light shine and tiny green herb sprinkles over them. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The perfect garnish not only dresses up your dish but also elevates the overall flavor experience. Fresh parsley is classic here, adding a vibrant green touch and fresh herbaceous notes that cut through the richness. A squeeze of extra lemon juice or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan can also bring delightful brightness and a hint of savory umami.

Side Dishes

This skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are an ideal companion, soaking up every last drop of that buttery garlic sauce. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad add lovely contrast. Or serve over fluffy rice or tender pasta to stretch this meal for a family feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress dinner guests, consider plating the steak and shrimp atop a bed of herbed couscous or creamy risotto, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. For a rustic presentation, serve straight from the skillet alongside crusty artisan bread—because nothing beats mopping up all that garlicky goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The hearty steak and shrimp hold up surprisingly well, although the garlic butter sauce may thicken overnight, making it even more flavorful when reheated.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container. While freezing may subtly change the texture of the shrimp, it remains delicious and convenient for a quick meal later. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low to medium heat to preserve tenderness and prevent overcooking. Adding a small pat of butter or a splash of water helps reclaim some of that original sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving too long, as it tends to toughen the steak and rubberize shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ribeye and sirloin are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, but you can also try filet mignon or strip steak. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Is it necessary to use large shrimp?

Large shrimp work best because they hold their texture and balance well with the steak, but medium shrimp can be used if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it relies on fresh ingredients and simple seasonings. Just double-check that your butter and any seasoning blends are gluten-free.

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I omit the red pepper flakes?

Definitely. The red pepper flakes are optional and add only a mild heat. Leaving them out won’t impact the overall richness and flavor of the garlic butter sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?

You can prepare the steak and shrimp ahead of time but it’s best to toss them in the garlic butter sauce just before serving to maintain the freshest flavors and best texture.

Final Thoughts

The Sizzling Garlic Butter Steak & Shrimp Skillet Recipe is truly one of those dishes that bring excitement to the dinner table without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s a beautiful balance of hearty steak, tender shrimp, and an irresistible garlic butter sauce that makes every bite feel special. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it turns an ordinary day into a celebration. Trust me, this skillet is going to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.