hi chef!
steak and lobster. two worlds coming together on one plate. it’s indulgence at its finest, yet somehow approachable when made at home. imagine a perfectly seared steak, tender and juicy, sitting alongside buttery lobster tails that practically melt in your mouth. whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a milestone, or just treating yourself because you can, this surf and turf recipe is about to make your kitchen the best table in town.
Ingredients (serves 2)
for the steak:
- 2 steaks (8 oz each), ribeye, filet mignon, or strip steak
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
for the lobster tails:
- 2 lobster tails (6 oz each), fresh or thawed
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
for garnish:
- fresh parsley, chopped
- lemon wedges
How to make surf and turf
1. prep the steaks
pat your steaks dry with paper towels. sprinkle salt and black pepper generously on both sides. let them sit for about 10 minutes while you prep the lobster tails.
2. butterfly the lobster tails
grab some kitchen scissors and cut lengthwise through the top shell of each tail. carefully pull the lobster meat up and rest it on the shell, keeping it attached at the base. it’s like giving the lobster a crown.
3. season the lobster
in a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, and lemon juice. brush this mixture over the exposed lobster meat, letting it soak up all that buttery goodness. set the tails aside.
4. sear the steaks
heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. once the oil is shimmering, place the steaks in the skillet and let them sizzle. sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a deep, golden crust forms.
add the butter, smashed garlic, and thyme or rosemary to the skillet. baste the steaks by tilting the pan and spooning the melted butter over the top for about a minute.
remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate. resting is key to keeping them juicy.
5. cook the lobster tails
set your oven to broil. place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet and slide them under the broiler for 8-10 minutes. keep an eye on them—lobster cooks quickly, and you want the meat opaque but not overdone.
6. plate and serve
arrange the steak and lobster tails on a plate. garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges for that zesty finish. grab your fork and knife, and prepare for compliments—whether from guests or yourself.
Tips for the perfect surf and turf
- room temperature steak: letting the steaks sit at room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking.
- don’t overcook the lobster: it only takes a few minutes under the broiler. once the meat is opaque, it’s done.
- rest your steak: this step is non-negotiable. it lets the juices redistribute, giving you a perfectly tender bite every time.
Variations to try
- shrimp swap: not into lobster? use jumbo shrimp instead. sauté them in garlic butter for a simpler seafood option.
- sauce it up: pair your meal with a creamy béarnaise or a bold chimichurri sauce for an extra flavor layer.
- different meats: want to mix it up? try lamb chops or pork tenderloin in place of the steak.
FAQ
Can i grill this instead?
absolutely. grill the steak over high heat for a smoky sear, and grill the lobster tails over medium heat to keep them tender.
What’s the best steak for surf and turf?
ribeye is flavorful and juicy, while filet mignon is tender and luxurious. new york strip is another excellent option.
Can i prep anything ahead?
yes! season the steaks and prepare the lobster tails a few hours before cooking. just keep everything refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.
Final thoughts: Indulgence made easy
surf and turf might sound like something you’d only order at a fancy restaurant, but trust me, it’s totally doable at home. with a bit of preparation and the right techniques, you can create a meal that feels luxurious but doesn’t take all day to make. it’s the kind of dish that makes any evening feel special.
so go ahead, chef—treat yourself. whip up this surf and turf, pour a glass of wine, and savor every bite. don’t forget to snap a photo and share your masterpiece. until next time, happy cooking!
