If you are craving a dish that combines juicy steak and succulent shrimp all tossed in a vibrant, flavorful sauce, the Steak Bites and Shrimp with Garlic, Herbs, and Lemon Recipe is going to become your new favorite. This recipe blends the richness of tender sirloin with the fresh brininess of shrimp, highlighted by garlic’s punch, the earthiness of fresh herbs, and a bright splash of lemon. Easy to prepare and impressive to serve, this dish brings restaurant-quality excitement right into your kitchen in just about 25 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the meaty tenderness of sirloin steak to the zesty brightness of lemon juice, every component works harmoniously to bring out the best in this dish.
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose a well-marbled cut for juicy, tender steak bites that sear beautifully.
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen, shrimp add a sweet, briny contrast to the rich steak.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This enriches the sauce while helping the herbs release their fragrance.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant, savory depth that ties the dish together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing and cooking the steak and shrimp evenly without sticking.
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Offers piney, woody notes that elevate the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped: Adds subtle earthiness and freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of steak and shrimp.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Provides a bright, citrusy finish that cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Optional: red pepper flakes: A little heat if you want to add a kick to your dish.
How to Make Steak Bites and Shrimp with Garlic, Herbs, and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Gently add the steak bites that you’ve seasoned with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side, allowing a golden-brown crust to form while maintaining a juicy interior. Once perfectly seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside—this step locks in flavor and gives the steak a satisfying texture.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic to Build Aroma
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Cook for just about a minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This brief sauté releases the garlic’s sweet, savory aroma, forming the flavorful foundation for the sauce that will envelop both the steak and shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. The goal is to achieve tender, juicy shrimp that still hold their slight snap, balancing beautifully against the steak.
Step 4: Create the Herb and Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, fresh rosemary, thyme, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently until the butter melts and the herbs release their fragrant oils. This luscious sauce binds the dish together—bright, herbal, buttery, and just a little tangy from the lemon juice, it’s pure magic.
Step 5: Reunite Steak and Shrimp
Return the steak bites back into the skillet, tossing everything together to fully coat the meat and shrimp with the fragrant sauce. Let it cook an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and the dish to heat through perfectly. This final step ensures every bite is bursting with garlicky, herb-infused goodness.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme leaves for added color and aroma. Serve immediately to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and textures. This dish tastes best hot and fresh from the pan!
How to Serve Steak Bites and Shrimp with Garlic, Herbs, and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Simple is best when it comes to garnishing this dish. Fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme add an aromatic green pop that visually lifts the presentation. A thin lemon wedge or zest grated on top can provide an extra citrus burst just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce, or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to contrast the richness. Steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables also complement the herbal and lemony notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special dinner, serve your steak bites and shrimp as a shareable platters alongside crusty artisan bread to mop up the sauce. Alternatively, arrange them over creamy polenta or tossed with linguine for a heartier meal showcasing a medley of textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers — though you probably won’t! — transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to two days when properly stored, maintaining most of that garlicky, herby goodness.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal as shrimp texture can change. However, if necessary, place the cooled steak bites and shrimp in a heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, use a skillet over medium-low heat to warm the steak and shrimp slowly, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a fantastic choice for its tenderness and flavor, other cuts like ribeye or New York strip can work well too. Just be sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Large shrimp that are peeled and deveined are best for this recipe. Fresh is ideal, but frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as they are thawed properly before cooking.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe is mild by default, but adding red pepper flakes gives it a gentle kick. You can adjust the heat according to your preference or omit it entirely for a more subtle flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free as it uses whole foods and simple seasonings without any wheat-based ingredients.
How do I get the steak bites tender and not chewy?
Choosing a tender cut of steak and not overcooking it is key. Cooking steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat creates a nice sear but keeps the inside juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something truly special about the wonderful marriage of steak and shrimp, especially when paired with the bright, aromatic flavors of garlic, herbs, and lemon. This Steak Bites and Shrimp with Garlic, Herbs, and Lemon Recipe is simple enough for a weeknight treat yet impressive enough for guests, delivering a delicious experience every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your home kitchen!
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Steak Bites and Shrimp with Garlic, Herbs, and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Steak Bites and Shrimp recipe features juicy sirloin steak pieces and succulent shrimp cooked together in a flavorful garlic herb butter sauce infused with fresh rosemary, thyme, and a bright splash of lemon juice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect quick and elegant surf and turf dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings & Herbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Fats & Oils
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Other
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Cook the Steak Bites: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Add Butter and Herbs: Lower the heat to medium, then add the unsalted butter, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently until the butter melts and the herbs release their aroma, creating a flavorful sauce.
- Toss Steak Bites in Sauce: Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the meat and shrimp evenly in the garlic herb butter sauce. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve: Immediately plate the steak bites and shrimp, optionally garnishing with extra rosemary or thyme for a fresh touch. Serve hot for the best experience.
Notes
- You can swap sirloin for other steak cuts like ribeye or filet mignon if preferred.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme greatly enhances the flavor compared to dried herbs.
