Are you ready to take your cooking skills to the next level? This Steak and Seafood Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or impressing guests, this dish combines tender steak strips, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering masterpiece at home!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This skillet recipe is a harmonious blend of land and sea, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender steak provides a hearty base, while the juicy shrimp adds a touch of elegance. The star of the show, however, is the velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Its rich, savory notes are enhanced by aromatic garlic and a hint of paprika for warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
But what makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from buttery mashed potatoes to crisp roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s quick enough to prepare on a busy weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions. Ready to get started? Let’s explore the ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need to make this delectable dish:
- 1 lb steak, cut into strips
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Olive oil, for cooking
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor. For instance, the garlic infuses the dish with its signature aroma, while the Parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth that complements the cream sauce. Don’t forget the fresh parsley—it brightens up the dish with its vibrant color and subtle earthiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break down the process into simple, easy-to-follow steps so you can confidently recreate this dish at home.
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This includes cutting the steak into bite-sized strips, peeling and deveining the shrimp, mincing the garlic, and grating the Parmesan cheese. Having everything organized will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Cook the Steak
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the steak to steam instead of sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for an extra kick of flavor. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them with the steak.
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add a touch more olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce to coat evenly. Let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing options. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans adds a healthy contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the sauce.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a neutral base that complements the bold flavors of the skillet.
For an added touch of elegance, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and parsley over the plated dish before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though we doubt there will be any!), store them properly to maintain their quality. Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
It’s worth noting that shrimp doesn’t always reheat well, as it can become tough. If you’re planning to save leftovers, consider cooking only the amount of shrimp you’ll eat immediately and storing the rest separately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of protein?
A: Absolutely! While steak and shrimp are the stars of this dish, you can experiment with other proteins like chicken or scallops. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Q: Is this dish keto-friendly?
A: Yes! With its focus on protein and healthy fats, this recipe fits perfectly within a keto diet. Just ensure your sides align with your dietary goals.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh, you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat it gently before combining it with the steak and shrimp.
Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
A: Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque. Overcooking can make it rubbery, so keep an eye on it during the final minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Steak and Seafood Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the first sizzle in the skillet to the final garnish of fresh parsley, every step is designed to bring joy to your kitchen and satisfaction to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish promises to deliver unforgettable flavors and memories.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the magic unfold. Bon appétit!
Steak and Seafood Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, cut into strips
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: Cut the steak into strips, peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the steak.
- Lower the heat to medium and add a touch more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently in the sauce to coat evenly. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread!