Steak and Shrimp Scampi: The Ultimate Surf-and-Turf Dinner That’s Restaurant-Worthy

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When you’re craving something indulgent yet doable on a weeknight—or you’re planning a romantic dinner at home—few dishes can compete with a well-made Steak and Shrimp Scampi. This luxurious surf-and-turf combo brings together perfectly seared NY Strip steak topped with garlic butter and tender shrimp tossed in a zesty, garlicky lemon-wine sauce over al dente linguine. It’s a five-star experience made right in your own kitchen.

This recipe is ideal for food lovers who crave bold flavors, date night dinners, or anyone who enjoys elevating classic comfort food into something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try and how you can make it flawlessly at home.

Why You’ll Love This Steak and Shrimp Scampi

  • Restaurant-quality at home: Save the steakhouse prices—this meal looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bistro.
  • Simple, real ingredients: No complicated techniques or hard-to-find items here—just fresh ingredients and pantry staples.
  • Balanced flavors: The richness of the steak and butter pairs beautifully with the bright, citrusy shrimp scampi.
  • Impressive presentation: Ideal for entertaining, anniversaries, or treating yourself.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Shrimp Scampi Linguine:

  • ½ lb. linguine
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ lb. jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ⅛ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp pepper
  • ⅓ cup white wine or chicken broth
  • 3 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • 3 Tbsp finely chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

For the Garlic Butter Steak:

  • ½ lb. NY Strip Steak
  • ½ tsp coarse salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
  • ½ Tbsp oil (high smoke point like avocado or canola)
  • 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ tsp minced garlic

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cast iron pan (or any heavy-bottomed pan) for steak
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Small mixing bowl for garlic butter
  • Pasta strainer
  • Meat thermometer (recommended)

How to Make Steak and Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook linguine until al dente—about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook the pasta since it will finish cooking slightly in the scampi sauce later.

Pro tip: Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining. It’s perfect for loosening up the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for just 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—about 5 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice into the skillet. Simmer for 1 minute, scraping any bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.

Add the drained linguine and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss well to coat in the scampi sauce.

Shortcut: Use precooked shrimp to save time—just reduce the cook time in the skillet to about 2–3 minutes to warm them through.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak

Heat a cast iron pan over high heat until it’s almost smoking. Pat the steak dry and season with salt and pepper. Brush lightly with oil.

Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (medium rare) or 140°F (medium). Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

While the steak rests, mix the butter and minced garlic. Spoon it over the warm steak slices.

Cooking tip: Always slice steak against the grain for the most tender bite.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Divide the linguine and shrimp onto two plates. Top with sliced garlic butter steak and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Protein swap: Try scallops instead of shrimp, or sub in filet mignon for an even more tender steak.
  • Pasta alternatives: Use fettuccine, angel hair, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
  • Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted asparagus pair beautifully with this dish.
  • Sauce upgrade: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the scampi sauce for a richer, more velvety texture.

Food & Drink Pairings

Wine:

  • White wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemony shrimp beautifully.
  • Red wine: A light Pinot Noir balances the richness of the steak without overwhelming the seafood.

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
  • Caesar salad or arugula with shaved parmesan
  • Roasted vegetables or grilled corn on the cob

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water. Avoid microwaving the shrimp too long—they can become rubbery.
  • Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes in the shrimp and pasta.

Pro tip: Keep steak and pasta separate when storing for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Do I need a cast iron skillet for the steak?
While cast iron provides the best sear, any heavy-bottomed skillet will work—just ensure it’s properly preheated.

Can I make this ahead of time?
The scampi sauce and pasta can be prepped a few hours ahead. Cook the steak fresh right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?
Absolutely—chicken broth or seafood stock are excellent substitutes and still add depth of flavor.

What’s the best way to tell when shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they curl into a “C” shape and turn pink. Overcooked shrimp form a tight “O” shape and become rubbery.

Final Thoughts

This Steak and Shrimp Scampi recipe is a celebration of indulgent flavor, easy execution, and impressive results. It’s a perfect dish to mark a special occasion—or elevate an ordinary evening with something truly memorable.

So whether you’re cooking for someone you love or simply treating yourself, this dish will hit all the right notes. The garlic, lemon, wine, butter, and perfectly cooked steak come together for an unforgettable meal that rivals anything from your favorite steakhouse.

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