Perfect Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce for a Luxurious Dinner at Home

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There are some nights when a simple meal won’t do. Maybe you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a romantic evening in, or just craving something a little more indulgent. Whatever the reason, you deserve something that feels as extravagant as it tastes. That’s where this Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce enters the picture.

With tender beef fillets paired with golden-seared scallops, all finished with a fragrant garlic butter sauce, you’re crafting more than just dinner. You’re creating an experience. And the best part? You don’t need a reservation or a sky-high bill to make it happen. Just follow along and bring this decadent dish to life in your own kitchen.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce

Creating a dish that impresses doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this recipe, you get restaurant-quality results using fresh, simple ingredients. Here’s why it hits all the right notes:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Elegant, rich flavors without the professional kitchen.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: A memorable meal that sets the mood.
• Balanced Texture and Taste: The melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin complements the sweetness of the scallops beautifully.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the herbs or seafood to match your preferences.

You deserve meals that are both stunning and satisfying, and this recipe brings both to your table effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Surf and Turf

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish together. Organizing your ingredients ahead of time ensures smooth cooking.

Main Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Quantity
Beef tenderloin fillets	2 (1 1/2 inches thick, 6–8 oz each)
Sea scallops (large)	8–10, cleaned and patted dry
Unsalted butter	3 tablespoons, divided
Kosher salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste

Garlic Butter Sauce Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Quantity
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Unsalted butter	6 tablespoons (cubed)
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons
Fresh chives (chopped)	2 tablespoons
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon (fresh)
Lemon zest	2 teaspoons
Salt and pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce

When you follow each step carefully, the reward is a visually stunning and flavor-packed plate that tastes like it came from a fine dining kitchen.

1. Prep the Fillets and Scallops

• Let your beef fillets sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
• Pat the steaks and scallops completely dry using paper towels.
• Season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Remove the tough side muscle from each scallop if still attached.

2. Sear the Beef Tenderloin

• Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high for about 8–10 minutes.
• Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt completely.
• Place the steaks in the hot pan and sear for 4–6 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred doneness.
• Remove from heat and loosely cover with foil to rest.

3. Cook the Scallops

• Wipe the skillet clean to prevent burning remnants.
• Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
• Carefully place scallops in a single layer and avoid moving them.
• Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and opaque.
• Transfer scallops to a warm plate and cover.

4. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Reduce heat to low and add minced garlic.
• Stir frequently until fragrant (about 1 minute).
• Add cubed butter gradually while stirring until melted and creamy.
• Stir in parsley, chives, lemon juice, and zest.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Plate and Serve

• Arrange your beef tenderloin and scallops on a serving plate.
• Generously drizzle the garlic butter sauce over both.
• Garnish with extra herbs or a slice of lemon for added flair.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Surf and Turf

Even with an easy recipe, small tweaks can elevate the final result.

Ensure Even Cooking for Steaks

• Rest Before Cooking: Allow fillets to reach room temperature.
• Use a Thermometer: Aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, always let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes.

Get That Golden Crust on Scallops

• Dry is Key: Moisture prevents proper searing.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Scallops need space to develop a crust.
• Use High Heat: You want a quick sear, not a slow cook.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop herbs, zest lemon, and mince garlic in advance.
• Store Leftovers Separately: Keep sauce and proteins apart to maintain texture.
• Reheat Gently: Use low heat and cover to avoid drying out.

Variations and Pairings for Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce

Mixing things up can make the dish even more exciting.

Delicious Variations

• Swap beef fillets with ribeye or strip steak for different flavor profiles.
• Use shrimp, lobster tails, or even crab meat instead of scallops.
• Add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter for a more layered sauce.

Perfect Pairings

Suggested Sides:

• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus or broccolini
• Wild rice pilaf

Drinks:

• Sparkling citrus water
• Non-alcoholic chardonnay alternatives
• Cold brewed herbal teas with lemon

Bread:

• Warm sourdough slices
• Garlic herb focaccia
• Buttery dinner rolls

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	600 kcal
Protein	40g
Fat	45g
Carbs	4g
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cooking Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes
Servings	2

Frequently Asked Questions about Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce

What is surf and turf?

Surf and turf is a meal that features both seafood and red meat, typically steak and shellfish. It brings contrasting textures and rich flavors to your plate.

Can I make this surf and turf recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce ingredients and season the proteins ahead, but the actual cooking should be done right before serving to retain texture.

What steak cut works best for surf and turf?

Beef tenderloin is ideal for tenderness and presentation. However, ribeye or sirloin can also work well.

How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Perfect scallops are golden on the outside and just opaque in the center. Overcooked scallops turn rubbery.

Can I freeze leftovers of surf and turf with garlic butter sauce?

Scallops do not freeze well once cooked. However, cooked steak can be frozen for up to a month. Store sauce separately and reheat gently.

Conclusion: Treat Yourself to This Elegant Surf and Turf with Garlic Butter Sauce

This dish isn’t just food. It’s an occasion. With every bite of seared tenderloin and buttery scallop, you invite warmth and indulgence to your table. The simplicity of the recipe belies its luxurious outcome, proving that elegance doesn’t require complexity.

You now have everything you need to create a fine dining experience in your own kitchen—no special skills, no chef title required. So, set the mood, fire up the skillet, and treat yourself to a night you won’t forget.

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