How to Make a Delicious Father’s Day Surf and Turf Steak & Shrimp Feast

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to the ultimate Surf and Turf: a juicy, perfectly seared steak paired with buttery, garlic-infused shrimp. This hearty, restaurant-quality meal is packed with bold flavors and comes together easily at home — no fancy equipment needed. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking stovetop, this feast offers the perfect blend of land and sea, ideal for honoring the man of the day.

Impress Dad with a dish that feels luxurious but is totally doable, even for beginners. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this surf and turf will be the highlight of your Father’s Day celebration — and one he won’t soon forget.

Why You’ll Love This Father’s Day Surf and Turf

This Surf and Turf is more than just delicious — it’s a Father’s Day showstopper. Here’s why:

• Steakhouse flavor at home: Save the reservations — you’ll get the same savory bite and buttery shrimp in your own kitchen.
• Quick and easy: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and done in under an hour.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite steak cut, shrimp style, and spice level.
• Family-friendly: A meal the whole table will love, even the kids.
• Celebration-worthy: Whether grilled or pan-seared, this combo screams special occasion.

Ready to gather your ingredients? Let’s jump in.

What You’ll Need

Creating this surf and turf feast starts with a few fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for about 4 servings:

For the Steak:

• 4 ribeye or NY strip steaks (about 8 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Tools:

• Cast iron skillet or grill
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl

These ingredients are flexible — feel free to swap seasonings or herbs depending on what Dad loves most. Just make sure your steak and shrimp are fresh and well-seasoned for maximum flavor.

How to Make Father’s Day Surf and Turf

Step 1: Prep the Steak
Pat steaks dry, season both sides with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temp for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a hot skillet. Add steaks and sear 3–4 minutes per side. In the last 2 minutes, add 2 tbsp butter, smashed garlic, and herbs. Spoon melted butter over steaks. Remove when internal temp hits 130°F (medium-rare) or your preferred doneness. Rest for 5–10 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan (or a clean one), add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side. Add 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp lemon juice at the end. Toss to coat.

Step 4: Plate and Serve
Arrange steak and shrimp on plates, drizzle with pan juices, and garnish with parsley.

This surf and turf comes together in 30–40 minutes — perfect for Father’s Day dinner without spending all day in the kitchen.

You Must Know

A few key tips make this surf and turf shine:

• Let steak rest before cooking. Room temp ensures even cooking and a better sear.
• Don’t overcook shrimp. They only need 2–3 minutes per side — tender, not rubbery.
• Use a meat thermometer. It takes out the guesswork. Aim for 130–135°F for medium-rare steak.
• Rest after cooking. Let the steak sit for 5–10 minutes to lock in juices.
• Dry shrimp before cooking. This helps them sear properly instead of steaming.

These basics help you avoid common mistakes and serve up restaurant-quality results with ease.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Great results come from simple, smart steps:

• Get your pan hot. A hot skillet creates the perfect steak crust.
• Baste with garlic butter. This adds flavor and richness in the final minutes.
• Cook shrimp last. They’re quick and taste best fresh off the heat.
• Keep it simple. Let the ingredients shine — no heavy sauces needed.
• Garnish well. A sprinkle of parsley and squeeze of lemon make the dish pop.

Master these details, and your surf and turf will be juicy, flavorful, and worthy of any Father’s Day celebration.

Add Your Touch

Make this dish your own with simple tweaks:

• Choose your cut: Ribeye for richness, filet for tenderness, or NY strip for balance.
• Season your way: Try Cajun spice, lemon pepper, or a smoky dry rub for the steak.
• Flavor the shrimp: Add honey, chili flakes, or a splash of citrus juice for extra zing.
• Go saucy: Want a dip? Try garlic herb butter, chimichurri, or a creamy (non-alcoholic) mustard sauce.
• Add sides Dad loves: Think roasted potatoes, mac and cheese, or grilled veggies.

Customizing lets you match Dad’s taste — making the meal even more memorable.

Storing & Reheating

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them tasty:

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• Storage: Store steak and shrimp separately in airtight containers. Use within 3 days.
• Reheating steak: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water. Avoid the microwave to keep it juicy.
• Reheating shrimp: Quickly sauté over medium heat for 1–2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 300°F until just warm.
• Don’t overcook: Both steak and shrimp can dry out if reheated too long.

Handled right, your leftovers will still taste amazing the next day.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

These quick tips can elevate your surf and turf effortlessly:

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• Dry meat and shrimp first: Patting them dry helps with browning and flavor.
• Use high heat to sear: Whether on the grill or skillet, hot and fast creates that golden crust.
• Don’t skip resting time: It’s the secret to juicy steak.
• Cook shrimp last minute: They’re best fresh — save them for just before serving.
• Use compound butter: Mix softened butter with garlic, herbs, or lemon zest for extra flavor.

Little touches like these help turn a good meal into an unforgettable one.

FAQ

Can I grill both steak and shrimp?
Yes! Grill steak over high heat and shrimp on skewers or a grill basket for best results.

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What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?
Ribeye, filet mignon, and NY strip all work well — pick based on your preferred tenderness or flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely — just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

Do I need a cast iron skillet?
It’s ideal, but any heavy-bottomed pan or grill works fine.

What sides go best with this meal?
Mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or a crisp salad are perfect pairings.

Conclusion

This Father’s Day Surf and Turf is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration on a plate. With juicy steak, buttery shrimp, and bold, simple flavors, it’s the perfect way to show Dad how much he’s appreciated. Whether you grill or sear, serve it fancy or rustic, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and heart.

It’s easy to customize, quick to make, and guaranteed to impress. Paired with Dad’s favorite sides and a refreshing drink, this feast will be the highlight of his special day. Gather the family, fire up the pan or grill, and make this Father’s Day one to remember with a surf and turf dinner that’s full of love.