Ultimate Surf and Turf Dinner: A Luxurious Grilled Feast for Special Occasions

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There are few dishes as indulgent and unforgettable as a perfectly prepared Surf and Turf dinner. When you’re looking to impress guests, treat yourself to an elevated at-home date night, or celebrate something special, this recipe delivers luxury and flavor in every bite. Combining tender filet mignon, succulent lobster tails, and juicy grilled shrimp, paired with bacon-wrapped asparagus and a flavorful garlic herb butter, this meal hits every note of decadence and satisfaction.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a weekend grill warrior, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and totally unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Surf and Turf Recipe

This recipe is tailor-made for those who love the thrill of the grill and appreciate the finer things on their plate. It’s an all-in-one gourmet experience that brings together the rich, juicy profile of filet mignon with the sweet, buttery flavor of lobster and shrimp.

What makes it so great?

  • Balanced flavors: The buttery garlic herb sauce ties the dish together beautifully.
  • Impressive presentation: It’s a visual showstopper—perfect for anniversaries, dinner parties, or holidays.
  • Efficient cooking: You can prepare all components on the grill, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
  • Customizable: From protein swaps to seasoning changes, you can easily adjust this dish to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to craft the Ultimate Surf and Turf Dinner:

  • 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
  • 2 lobster tails (4-5 oz each)
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 asparagus spears
  • 8 slices of bacon
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan
  • Tongs
  • Sharp kitchen shears or knife (for lobster tails)
  • Small saucepan (for butter sauce)
  • Skewers (optional for shrimp)
  • Aluminum foil (optional for wrapping asparagus bundles)
  • Meat thermometer (recommended for perfectly cooked steak)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to medium-high heat (around 400–450°F). Let it preheat fully to ensure proper searing.

2. Prepare the Filet Mignon

Season both sides of the filet mignon steaks with salt and freshly ground pepper. Grill each steak for 4–5 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare finish. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness (135°F internal temp for medium-rare).
Pro tip: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes under tented foil before serving to retain juices.

3. Prepare the Lobster Tails

Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, split each lobster tail lengthwise down the middle. Brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Place them flesh-side down on the grill for 4–5 minutes until lightly charred, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until opaque and firm.

4. Grill the Shrimp

Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper or your favorite seafood seasoning. Skewer them (optional) and grill for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.

5. Make the Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bundle 1–2 asparagus spears together and wrap with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Grill, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender—about 8–10 minutes total.

6. Prepare Garlic Herb Butter

While everything grills, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic, chives, and parsley, and cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes. This fragrant sauce is drizzled over the lobster, shrimp, and steaks just before serving.

Suggested Food & Drink Pairings

  • Wine: A robust Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with filet mignon, while a chilled Chardonnay or Champagne complements the seafood elements.
  • Side Dishes: Consider adding roasted baby potatoes, wild rice, or a creamy risotto on the side.
  • Salads: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.
  • Bread: Serve with crusty French bread or garlic knots to soak up the garlic butter.

Recipe Tips and Variations

  • Swap the filet: Not a fan of filet? Try ribeye or New York strip for a fattier, bolder flavor.
  • Lobster alternative: Can’t find lobster tails? Substitute with scallops or double the shrimp.
  • Grill-free version: Use a cast-iron skillet indoors if grilling isn’t an option.
  • Add a sauce: Elevate the experience with a béarnaise sauce or red wine reduction on the steak.
  • Vegetarian version: Swap the meats for grilled portobello mushrooms, zucchini steaks, and halloumi cheese—still delicious with the garlic herb butter.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (doubtful!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

  • Refrigeration: Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating steak: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warm, or slice thin and enjoy cold over salad.
  • Reheating seafood: Warm shrimp and lobster tails in a covered skillet with a splash of water or butter over low heat to prevent overcooking.
  • Avoid microwaving: Especially for the filet and seafood, as it can ruin the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen seafood?

Absolutely—just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before grilling to ensure the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to tell if lobster is cooked?

Cooked lobster meat turns opaque and white, and the shell will be bright red. Overcooked lobster gets rubbery, so keep an eye on it.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer:

  • Rare: 125°F
  • Medium-rare: 135°F
  • Medium: 145°F
    Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prep ingredients ahead—season meats, skewer shrimp, wrap asparagus, and mix the butter sauce—then grill everything fresh for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Surf and Turf Dinner isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration on a plate. It’s ideal for romantic evenings, impressing friends, or treating yourself to something extraordinary. With simple ingredients and elegant results, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner.

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