Ultimate Surf & Turf Platter: A Restaurant-Quality Dinner at Home

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Few dishes scream “luxury” quite like a Surf & Turf Platter. Combining tender, juicy steak bites with succulent shrimp and seared scallops, this dish brings together the best of land and sea. It’s elegant, it’s satisfying, and—believe it or not—it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

This blog post will walk you through every savory step of creating your own Surf & Turf masterpiece. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner game, this recipe will deliver big on flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Surf & Turf Platter

This recipe is for home cooks who crave indulgence but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and a few smart techniques, you’ll achieve a gourmet finish that rivals high-end steakhouses and seafood restaurants.

It’s also highly customizable—swap out proteins, adjust the seasoning, or serve it family-style for a crowd. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and high-protein, making it keto-friendly and great for a satisfying, healthy meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Steak Bites:

  • 1 lb sirloin or filet mignon, cut into cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

  • ½ lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp lemon juice
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Scallops:

  • ½ lb large scallops
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels (for drying scallops)
  • Small bowl (for mixing seasonings)
  • Plate or platter for serving
  • Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Steak Bites

  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  2. Season steak cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Add the butter and spoon it over the steak as it finishes cooking for extra richness.
  5. Transfer to a warm plate and set aside.

Chef’s Tip: For best results, don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak in batches if needed to maintain a crisp, golden crust.

2️⃣ Sear the Shrimp

  1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
  2. Toss the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sear shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss to coat.
  5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Shortcut: Buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save on prep time.

3️⃣ Perfectly Sear the Scallops

  1. Pat scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a beautiful golden crust.
  2. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat butter and olive oil in a clean skillet over high heat.
  4. Sear scallops for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Add minced garlic just before removing from heat.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Pro Tip: A dry scallop is a happy scallop. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.

How to Serve

Plate your Surf & Turf Platter on a large serving dish, arranging the steak, shrimp, and scallops attractively. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or microgreens for that gourmet touch. Serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the proteins.

Recommended Drink Pairings

  • Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon complements the steak perfectly.
  • White Wine: A buttery Chardonnay or dry Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with shrimp and scallops.
  • Cocktails: A classic gin martini or a citrusy mojito makes a refreshing match.
  • Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or a chilled herbal iced tea is a clean, crisp choice.

Recipe Variations

  • Add Lobster: Replace or add lobster tail for an extra-luxurious touch.
  • Make it Spicy: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
  • Herb Upgrade: Finish with fresh thyme or rosemary for earthy aroma.
  • Saucy Bonus: Serve with garlic butter or a lemon-herb aioli on the side.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? Rare, but if you have any:

  • Steak and Shrimp: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
  • Scallops: Best eaten fresh. If you must store them, do so in a sealed container in the fridge and eat within 24 hours.
  • Freezing: Not recommended for scallops or shrimp due to texture changes. Steak can be frozen if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes! Just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Excess moisture will hinder browning.

What steak cut works best?

Filet mignon is the most tender, but sirloin is flavorful and more affordable. Ribeye is another great option if you don’t mind a bit of fat.

Can I grill instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely. Grilling adds a delicious smokiness—just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check spice labels and any sauces you add.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Surf & Turf Platter is the ultimate showstopper meal—easy to make, rich in flavor, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a special celebration, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that celebrates abundance and good taste.

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