Garlic Butter Steak Shrimp

This garlic butter steak and shrimp pasta brings together rich, juicy steak and tender shrimp in a decadent garlic butter sauce. It’s a perfect blend of surf and turf that feels special but comes together easily for a weeknight meal or a date night at home. The combination of fresh spinach and roasted red peppers adds bright color and a touch of sweetness that balances the bold flavors.

I first made this recipe when craving something a bit fancy without the fuss. Now it’s a go to whenever I want to impress without spending hours cooking.

Ingredients

• Sirloin or ribeye steak: cut into bitesized cubes choose fresh meat with good marbling for tenderness and flavor
• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined fresh or frozen works just avoid preseasoned ones for best control on flavor
• Spaghetti or linguine: classic pasta shapes hold the sauce nicely choose good quality for better texture
• Olive oil: use extra virgin for a richer flavor and better health benefits
• Butter: divided key for that luscious garlic sauce and searing the shrimp
• Garlic cloves: minced fresh garlic is a must here to really shine in the sauce
• Italian seasoning: adds herby warmth choose a blend with basil oregano and thyme for authentic taste
• Smoked paprika: brings subtle smokiness that lifts the seafood and steak
• Salt and cracked black pepper: to taste enhances all the flavors naturally
• Fresh spinach: adds a fresh slightly earthy bite and color
• Chopped roasted red peppers: mild sweetness and softness complements the savory elements
• Grated Parmesan: optional adds salty nutty notes when sprinkled on top
• Fresh parsley: for garnish a pop of green and freshness that brightens the dish

Instructions

Season and Sear Steak:

Season steak cubes with salt pepper and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over mediumhigh heat until shimmering. Add the steak in a single layer and cook without moving for about two minutes to get a good sear. Flip and cook another two minutes or until browned but still juicy. Remove and set aside. This process locks in flavor and creates a savory crust.

Sear Shrimp and Add Flavor:

In the same skillet melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp sprinkle smoked paprika and a pinch of salt. Cook each side for about two to three minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick step infuses the shrimp with buttery garlicky richness.

Cook Pasta and Toss:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Toss the drained pasta immediately with the remaining butter to coat the strands while warm creating a silky buttery base for the dish.

Add Veggies and Combine:

Add fresh spinach and chopped roasted red peppers to the pasta and stir gently. The warm pasta wilts the spinach just right without overcooking. Fold in the shrimp so each bite has a hint of seafood combined with the vegetables and garlic butter sauce. Gently mix to combine everything evenly.

Plate and Serve:

Plate the shrimp pasta first then pile the seared steak bites on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan if using and scatter fresh parsley over everything for a bright herbal note. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of tender pasta and juicy steak with garlicky shrimp.

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My favorite ingredient here is the smoked paprika. I was hesitant at first but it adds a surprising depth that pulls all the flavors together. A memorable moment was when my partner declared this dish a new favorite after the first bite on a cozy evening at home.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave using a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. Avoid freezing cooked steak and shrimp pasta as the texture may degrade. Cook fresh portions when you want the best experience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can’t find smoked paprika regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can add some warmth but with a different profile. Use chicken breast instead of steak for a leaner version though the taste will shift. Kale or arugula can replace spinach if you prefer a different green with a bit more bite. Parmesan can be swapped for pecorino or left out entirely for a dairy free meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to lighten the richness. A crusty baguette or garlic bread pairs perfectly to soak up the garlic butter sauce. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complement the surf and turf flavors nicely.

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This garlic butter steak and shrimp pasta is elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do I keep the steak tender?

Choose sirloin or ribeye with good marbling, cut into bite-sized cubes, and sear quickly on medium-high heat to lock in juices without overcooking.

→ What’s the best way to cook the shrimp here?

Sauté peeled, deveined shrimp with minced garlic, smoked paprika, and butter over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque but still juicy.

→ Can I substitute the pasta type?

Yes, spaghetti or linguine works best to hold the sauce, but other long pasta varieties can be used according to preference.

→ How do I keep the spinach fresh and vibrant?

Add fresh spinach near the end of mixing so it wilts lightly, retaining its bright color and slight crunch without overcooking.

→ Is Parmesan required for this dish?

Parmesan adds a savory, nutty finish but can be omitted or swapped with similar hard cheeses depending on taste or dietary needs.