If you have ever dreamed of a restaurant-quality dinner that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make at home, the Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is going to be your new go-to. This dish perfectly balances the rich, savory flavors of a tender ribeye steak with the delicate sweetness of lobster tail, all brought together by a luscious, garlicky cream sauce. It’s the kind of meal that captures celebration in every bite, yet is simple enough to enjoy any night you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of carefully chosen ingredients, this recipe comes alive in both flavor and elegance. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the butter creating that silky sauce texture, or fresh herbs that add bursts of color and brightness.
- 4 oz lobster tail: The star of the surf portion, offering sweet, tender seafood flavor.
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks: Juicy, marbled, and full of beefy richness for the turf.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to sear the steaks to a perfect crust.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a silky depth to the creamy garlic sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with punchy, aromatic goodness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The foundation of the sauce’s luscious texture.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a hint of citrus zest.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Provides fresh herbaceous notes and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every element’s natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick if you like a bit of spice.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Complements the garlic and cream with woodsy warmth.
How to Make Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to a warm 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the steaks. This sets the stage for cooking the meat evenly and locking in juices.
Step 2: Prep the Lobster Tail
Place the lobster tail on a cutting board and use kitchen shears to carefully cut along the top shell lengthwise, stopping before the tail fin. This technique lets you lift the lobster meat from the shell while keeping it in place, making it easier to cook and plate beautifully later.
Step 3: Season and Sear the Ribeye
Pat your steaks dry to ensure a perfect sear, then rub each side with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms, sealing in all that juicy flavor.
Step 4: Roast the Steaks
Place the skillet in your hot oven and roast the steaks for 6–8 minutes or until they reach your preferred doneness. This two-step cooking method gives a lovely crust while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and just golden—be careful not to burn it, as that can turn bitter. Stir in chicken broth to deglaze the pan and let it simmer to concentrate flavors. Pour in heavy cream, then add lemon juice, fresh thyme, and optional red pepper flakes, letting the sauce bubble and thicken into a velvety delight.
Step 6: Cook the Lobster Tails in Sauce
While steaks rest, nestle the lobster tails into the pan with your creamy garlic sauce. Coat the meat with the rich, flavorful sauce and simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until the lobster turns opaque and is perfectly cooked through.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate your steaks and lobster tails, generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over both, and finish with freshly chopped parsley for a gorgeous, fresh touch. Your elegant surf and turf is now ready to delight everyone at the table.
How to Serve Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the rich creaminess of the sauce. A light sprinkle of lemon zest or a drizzle of melted butter can elevate this dish from wonderful to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Classic sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad complement this surf and turf beautifully. Each side brings a balance in texture and flavor, helping to round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the lobster tail on the steak or slice the ribeye before plating to showcase its juicy interior. Serving the creamy garlic sauce in a small gravy boat also allows guests to add as much as they like, making it interactive and elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate leftover steak and lobster in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you a delicious next-day treat.
Freezing
While freezing steak and lobster can be done, it’s best to freeze them separately without sauce for optimal texture later. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and enjoy within one month for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking your leftovers. Warm the creamy garlic sauce separately and combine just before serving to maintain its creamy richness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of steak for this Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is perfect for its marbling and flavor, sirloin or filet mignon also work beautifully if you prefer leaner cuts or a more tender texture.
What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt as a substitute, although chicken broth adds a deeper savory note that enriches the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with olive oil can provide a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free, though the flavor will slightly differ from the original.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the creamy garlic sauce a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving. Just be sure to stir occasionally to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
How can I tell when the lobster tail is fully cooked?
The lobster meat will turn opaque and pearly white, no longer translucent, and feel firm to the touch. Overcooking can toughen it, so timing is key in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is a true celebration on a plate, combining the best from land and sea with a sauce that elevates every bite. It’s perfect for special occasions or simply whenever you want to indulge in something extraordinary without fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of this rich, comforting, and elegant dish with your favorite people.
Print
Surf and Turf with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This indulgent Surf and Turf recipe pairs tender, flavorful ribeye steaks with succulent lobster tails, all smothered in a rich and creamy garlic sauce. Perfectly seared and oven-roasted steaks combine with butter-poached lobster and a luscious sauce infused with garlic, lemon, thyme, and a hint of spice, making an elegant dish ideal for special occasions or impressive dinners.
Ingredients
Seafood and Meat
- 4 oz lobster tail
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Liquids
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the ribeye steaks.
- Prepare Lobster Tail: Place the lobster tail on a clean cutting board and carefully cut along the top shell lengthwise with kitchen shears, stopping before the tail fin.
- Expose Lobster Meat: Gently pull apart the shell to reveal the lobster meat, leaving the base attached.
- Lift Lobster Meat: Use your fingers to lift the lobster meat out of the shell, resting it on top to keep it secure.
- Prep Steaks: Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels.
- Season Steaks: Rub each steak with 1 tablespoon olive oil on both sides, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat Skillet: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sear Steaks: When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Roast Steaks: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 6-8 minutes until steaks reach desired doneness.
- Prepare Sauce Pan: While steaks cook, heat a separate medium skillet over medium heat.
- Melt Butter: Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan and melt completely.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, avoiding burning.
- Add Broth: Stir in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the skillet bottom.
- Simmer Broth: Let broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Cream: Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Flavor Sauce: Add lemon juice, fresh thyme, and optional red pepper flakes, then bring to a simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens to creamy consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste sauce and add salt or pepper to taste.
- Rest Steaks: Remove steaks from oven and let rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board.
- Cook Lobster in Sauce: Add lobster tails to the skillet with sauce, spooning sauce over them, and cook for 4-5 minutes until lobster meat turns opaque and cooked through.
- Serve: Spoon creamy garlic sauce over steaks and lobster tails once plated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately to savor the rich, harmonious flavors of surf and turf with creamy garlic sauce.
Notes
- Use kitchen shears carefully when cutting the lobster shell to avoid injury.
- Resting the steaks after cooking allows juices to redistribute for a juicier result.
- Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick but can be omitted for a milder sauce.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the lobster; it should be opaque and tender.
- The oven-safe skillet ensures easy transfer from stovetop to oven without extra dishes.
