There is nothing quite like the rich, savory combination of tender steak and succulent shrimp coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, which makes the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe a total crowd-pleaser. This dish effortlessly brings together bold flavors and quick cooking to create a weeknight meal or a special occasion centerpiece you’ll want to make again and again. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it delivers restaurant-quality luxury right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color, making every bite unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb sirloin steak or ribeye: Choose a tender cut to ensure juicy, flavorful steak bites.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the steak and shrimp.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for steak): Helps sear the steak to a perfect crust without sticking.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp add sweetness and a delicate texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for shrimp): Prevents the shrimp from sticking and aids in even cooking.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: The heart of the garlic butter sauce, providing richness and depth.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a wonderful aromatic punch.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional): Delivers a subtle citrus zing to brighten the whole skillet.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
Start by seasoning your steak cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the steak bites and sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You want a beautiful brown crust while keeping the inside juicy and cooked to your liking. Once they’re ready, remove them from the skillet and set aside. This step locks in those deep, savory flavors that make the dish unforgettable.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, pour in the second tablespoon of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque — a clear sign they are perfectly cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the steak, keeping all those delicious browned bits in the pan for flavor.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet, melting it slowly while scraping up any flavorful residue left behind. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with that irresistible garlic aroma. This sauce is where the magic binds the steak bites and shrimp together in pure bliss.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return your steak bites and shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing everything in the garlic butter sauce to coat every morsel. For an extra burst of flavor, add the optional lemon juice and give it one last stir. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a hint of color and freshness.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Meal
Serve this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe over creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or alongside vibrant sautéed vegetables. The combination of tender meat, succulent seafood, and buttery garlic sauce is guaranteed to delight your taste buds with every bite.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is such a simple but essential garnish here, providing contrast and a lovely pop of green. You can also add a light dusting of paprika or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat and extra color. A wedge of lemon on the side lets you add brightness as you eat, lifting the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the buttery sauce or a fluffy bed of jasmine or basmati rice. For a lighter contrast, garlic roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad with a tangy dressing bring freshness to the plate without overpowering those bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, serve the steak bites and shrimp over a bed of angel hair pasta tossed lightly in olive oil and garlic. Alternatively, pile the skillet contents atop grilled polenta rounds for texture contrast. For gatherings, consider serving this dish family-style in the skillet so everyone can help themselves to that irresistible garlic butter goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they probably won’t last long), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp or steak, as they can become tough if heated too aggressively.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, but the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon thawing. Store the dish in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for best quality. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stovetop.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a small splash of water or extra butter to keep things moist. Avoid the microwave when possible to preserve texture and prevent overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use strip steak or even filet mignon if you want to make it extra special. Just keep in mind that thinner or tougher cuts might need adjusted cooking times.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or a good quality olive oil-based spread. You’ll still get that rich garlic flavor, but with a lighter, dairy-free finish.
How do I know when shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp turn from translucent gray to an opaque pinkish-white color when done. They should curl into a loose “C” shape and feel firm but not rubbery. Overcooking shrimp will make them tough, so keep your eyes on them!
Can I add extra vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all compliment the steak and shrimp nicely. Just add them after cooking the steak and shrimp so they can sauté briefly in the garlic butter sauce without getting mushy.
What can I use this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe for besides dinner?
This dish is great for entertaining as a shared appetizer or party platter. Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce, and watch how quickly everyone digs in. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep lunches when stored properly.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe is truly a gem that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and easy-to-make. Whether you’re surprising your family on a busy weeknight or trying to impress friends with your cooking skills, it delivers big flavors without fuss. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with one of the coziest, most satisfying meals you’ll make all year.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender seared steak cubes and succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfectly seasoned and garnished with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice for brightness, it’s an easy yet elegant meal to serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites and sear them for about 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the steak.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and melt it, scraping up any browned bits left from the steak and shrimp. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine and Serve: Return the steak bites and shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce. Add lemon juice for extra flavor, if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the garlic butter steak bites and shrimp skillet over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use ribeye or sirloin steak based on your preference and budget.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking steak or shrimp to ensure proper searing.
- Lemon juice is optional but adds a nice brightness to the dish.
- Make sure shrimp are peeled and deveined for best texture and taste.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
