There is something undeniably mouthwatering about the combination of tender steak and succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe brings together the best of both worlds, creating a dish that feels luxurious yet surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy steaks seared to perfection meet plump shrimp cooked in a bright, zesty scampi sauce—trust me, once you try this, it might just become your go-to for special dinners or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in layering flavors and building the perfect texture—from the rich butter and sharp garlic to the fresh lemon zing and savory Parmesan. Keeping things simple ensures the natural flavors of the steak and shrimp shine through beautifully.
- 2 steaks (filet mignon, ribeye, or your favorite cut): Choose a cut you love for a juicy and flavorful base.
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp work best for quick, tender cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for a perfect sear on the steak.
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided): Creates that indulgent, silky sauce everyone will adore.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the heart of the scampi flavor—fresh is key.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat to wake up the palate.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth): The liquid base that deglazes the pan, adding depth and brightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Provides a fresh citrus aroma that balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Lifts the sauce with zesty brightness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A colorful garnish that adds freshness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For an extra layer of savory, nutty flavor.
How to Make Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steaks
Start by seasoning your steaks generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet until shimmering, then add the steaks. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side if you like them medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness. The goal here is to get a beautiful, caramelized crust while locking in all the juicy flavors.
Step 2: Rest the Steaks
Once your steaks are cooked, transfer them to a plate and let them rest. This step is crucial; resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. While the steaks rest, you’ll use the same skillet for the shrimp scampi, which means all those delicious browned bits will boost your sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you want a touch of spice), cooking just about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you want it golden and aromatic, the foundation for your delightful scampi sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them—they should be tender and juicy, not rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep warm.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer), scraping the skillet’s bottom to deglaze and capture all those rich flavors. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly. Then stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This is where the sauce becomes silky, tangy, and utterly irresistible. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Slice the rested steak against the grain and arrange it on your plates alongside the shrimp. Spoon the luscious garlic butter sauce over both, making sure every bit is coated in that flavorful goodness. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and, if you like, a dusting of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost. This final touch is what makes this Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe feel truly special.
How to Serve Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley chopped brightens up the plate with its vibrant color and fresh aroma, perfectly complementing the rich sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a lovely nutty note that you won’t want to skip. For an added burst of freshness, a thin lemon wedge on the side is ideal for those who like an extra splash of citrus.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that don’t compete but instead enhance the main attraction. Think buttery garlic mashed potatoes to soak up all that sauce, or a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add a peppery crunch. Or keep it classic with crusty bread—perfect for sopping every last drop of the mouthwatering scampi sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating the steak slices fanned out next to a neat row of shrimp, all drizzled with sauce. Serve it over a bed of linguine tossed lightly in olive oil and garlic for a heartier meal. You can also use individual cast iron skillets for a rustic, impressive presentation that keeps everything warm and sizzling on the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any steak and shrimp scampi leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days. Make sure to separate the steak from the shrimp if possible for best texture, though the sauce holds everything together beautifully.
Freezing
While steak and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp scampi sauce in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat. The steak, however, tends to lose its tenderness after freezing, so it’s better to prepare fresh steak when possible.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the sauce silky and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Avoid using the microwave as it can overcook both the steak and shrimp, changing the texture.
FAQs
Can I use different cuts of steak for the Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe?
Absolutely! Filet mignon and ribeye are popular choices, but sirloin or New York strip can work wonderfully too. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and preferred doneness.
What if I don’t have white wine for the sauce?
No problem at all—chicken broth makes a great substitute, keeping the sauce flavorful without alcohol. You can also try vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! The recipe calls for red pepper flakes which add a gentle heat. Feel free to increase them if you like it spicier, or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before serving.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Definitely, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Dry shrimp will sear better and help keep the sauce from becoming watery.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to medium-rare?
A good rule of thumb is 4-5 minutes per side for steaks about one inch thick. You can also use a meat thermometer—the center should read around 130°F before resting for perfect medium-rare.
Final Thoughts
This Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is totally approachable. It’s juicy, flavorful, and beautifully balanced with bright lemon and garlic notes—a true crowd-pleaser. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a night you want something a little indulgent, this will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Print
Steak and Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Steak and Shrimp Scampi recipe combines perfectly seared steak with succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Ideal for a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish features tender filet mignon or ribeye paired with a zesty lemon and white wine infused scampi sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for an unforgettable dinner.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 steaks (filet mignon, ribeye, or your favorite cut)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing steak)
Shrimp Scampi Sauce
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Season the Steak: Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat olive oil in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or cook longer according to your preferred doneness.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate to retain their juices while you prepare the shrimp scampi.
- Prepare Garlic and Spices: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer and reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.
- Season the Sauce: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the rested steaks and plate alongside the cooked shrimp.
- Garnish and Present: Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the steak and shrimp. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
- For best results, choose cuts of steak like filet mignon or ribeye for tenderness and flavor.
- Use dry white wine for a traditional scampi sauce; chicken broth is a good non-alcohol alternative.
- Resting the steak after cooking ensures juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Adjust red pepper flakes quantity to control the level of heat.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nice umami touch but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
