Surf and Turf Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a unique and satisfying meal that appeals to seafood and meat lovers, surf and turf pasta is the perfect dish to add to your culinary repertoire.

Combining the succulent shrimp, steak, and pasta flavors will make this meal a dish you’ll never forget.

With its blend of Cajun spices and savory ingredients, surf and turf pasta offers a delectable combination of flavors that are hard to resist.

In this article, you’ll find tips and techniques to elevate your surf and turf pasta experience.

By carefully selecting quality ingredients and following the step-by-step instructions provided, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends at your next dinner gathering.

How to Make Surf and Turf Pasta

Ingredients List

• 4 whole 6-ounce strip steaks
• Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pasta of your choice
• Salted water for boiling pasta
• Garlic and Herb Butter Steak (optional)

Step-by-step process

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients and have them ready before starting the cooking process.

Ensure your strip steaks and jumbo shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry.

Step 2: Cook the pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Before draining, reserve about a cup of starchy pasta water for later use.

Step 3: Season the steaks

Season the strip steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.

You can also rub the steaks with homemade or store-bought garlic and herb butter for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the steaks

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or another heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.

Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and allow it to melt.

Place the seasoned steaks in the skillet and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the shrimp

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic in the same skillet.

Cook the garlic until fragrant, about a minute.

Add the jumbo shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 6: Combine the surf and turf

Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the shrimp.

Gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water (as needed) to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.

Serve the surf and turf pasta alongside the cooked strip steaks for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Remember to always be confident, knowledgeable, clear, and neutral in your cooking!

Side Dishes for Surf and Turf Pasta

When preparing a delicious surf and turf pasta dish, it’s important to consider what side dishes will complement the rich flavors of the seafood and meat.

This section highlights various side dishes that will enhance your overall dining experience.

These sides incorporate fresh parsley, garlic butter, green bell pepper, lemon juice, fresh thyme, and parmesan cheese.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a great choice to serve with your surf and turf pasta.

The charred bits and vibrant green color bring an upscale feel to your dinner table.

The hint of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley only enhance the flavors, making this dish a perfect partner for your pasta.

Garlic Butter Steak & Mushroom Cream Sauce

You won’t go wrong pairing your surf and turf pasta with this rich garlic butter steak and mushroom cream sauce.

It’s savory, creamy, and infused with fresh thyme to accentuate the flavors.

This sauce is the ideal addition to any meat-based pasta dish.

Cherry Tomato Salad

Consider serving a cherry tomato salad for a lighter, more refreshing side dish.

This salad perfectly balances hearty pasta and vibrant, fresh flavors with green bell pepper and lemon juice.

This side dish is especially ideal for adding a summery touch to your meal in warmer months.

Parmesan Garlic Bread

Prepare this easy-to-make dish by mixing garlic, oil, and herbs and then spreading it on bread.

Adding a touch of parmesan cheese takes it to another level and will be a crowd-pleaser.

Each side dish brings different flavors and textures to complement your pasta and elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients Substitutes

This section will provide a list of ingredient substitutes you can use in your Surf and Turf Pasta recipe.

These substitutions will help you adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

Garlic Cloves

If you don’t have fresh garlic cloves, you can replace them with garlic powder.

About 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one medium-sized fresh garlic clove.

Remember, when substituting ingredients, it’s essential to consider their flavor profiles and how they might interact with the other ingredients in your Surf and Turf Pasta recipe.

Feel free to experiment and find the combinations that best suit your taste buds.

How to Store Surf and Turf Pasta

Properly storing your Surf and Turf Pasta is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor.

It’s important to consider temperature, moisture, and containers when storing the dish.

Here is a list of main storage methods to keep your pasta delicious and ready for later consumption:

Fridge Storage

To store your Surf and Turf Pasta in the refrigerator, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container.

Ensure that the container is sealed correctly to prevent any leakage or absorption of other fridge odors.

Your pasta can be safely stored in the fridge for 3-4 days before the quality starts to degrade.

Freezer Storage

If you plan to keep your Surf and Turf pasta for an extended period, storing it in the freezer is a good idea.

First, separate the pasta from the sauce for better results while thawing.

Divide the dish into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers.

Make sure to leave some space for expansion in the containers.

Label them with the date, and you can store the pasta for 2-3 months.

How to Reheat Surf and Turf Pasta

When ready to enjoy your stored Surf and Turf pasta, reheat it correctly for the best possible taste.

If you have refrigerated your pasta, simply transfer it into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If you have frozen your pasta, you must thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave.

Once thawed, reheat using the above-mentioned method or on a stovetop until heated.

Remember to be mindful of food safety and use your best judgment when storing and consuming leftover Surf and Turf pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing Surf and Turf Pasta.

Not Preheating the Pan for a Perfect Sear

To achieve a golden brown crust on your firm steaks, such as a pound rib eye steak, always preheat the pan over medium heat before adding your steak.

This ensures the surface of the steak makes proper contact with the pan, creating a perfect sear.

You’ll have a pale, undercooked surface if the pan is not hot enough.

Overcooking the Pasta

The right pasta is crucial for a delicious surf and turf pasta dish.

Follow the package instructions and test the pasta a minute before the suggested cooking time.

Undercooked pasta will be too firm, while overcooked pasta will be mushy and unappetizing.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on creating a delicious and satisfying surf and turf pasta dish.