Published on December 27, 2025
Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling/Skillet Cooking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
For a festive delight, marinate flank steak and shrimp in garlic butter, cook them on a grill or skillet until perfectly seared, and serve with fresh parsley.
Introduction:
As the holiday season approaches in the vibrant city of New York, I always look forward to gathering with friends and family for cozy get-togethers. One dish that’s become a staple at my table is this Garlic Butter Grilled Steak and Shrimp. The combination of succulent steak paired with juicy shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce brings everyone together, and the enticing aroma fills the air, creating a sense of warmth and celebration.
A Festive Gathering Delight
This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of delicious flavors, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion. With the ease of preparation and the heartiness of the ingredients, it’s a wonderful centerpiece that promises to impress your guests and spark joy during the festivities.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious combination of succulent steak and shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The marinade infuses bold flavors that make your taste buds dance.
- Perfectly seared steak and shrimp for a satisfying texture and flavor contrast.
- Ideal for impressing guests during festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish:
For the Steak and Shrimp
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Steak and Shrimp (Step-by-Step)
This delightful recipe is easy to follow and full of flavor. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Marinate the Steak and Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk until fragrant, then add the flank steak and shrimp, making sure everything is evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature while you prepare your grill or skillet. The garlic will start to perfume the air, creating a delicious anticipation for what’s to come.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Skillet
If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high. For the skillet, place it over medium-high heat until it’s hot and beginning to shimmer. This ensures that your steak and shrimp will sear appropriately, locking in those juicy flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Sear the steak in the skillet or on the grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F. You’ll want to see a nice caramelization on the outside, releasing that mouthwatering aroma that just fills the air. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes covered with aluminum foil before slicing.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
While the steak is resting, toss the shrimp onto the same skillet (or grill) with the remaining marinade. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re opaque and pink. You’ll know they’re done when they curl into a nice C shape and are slightly charred. The buttery essence of the garlic and the bright acidity from the lemon will transform your kitchen into a little haven of holiday cheer.
Step 5: Serve
Slice the steak against the grain into strips and plate it with the grilled shrimp. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over everything and garnish with fresh parsley. The dish not only looks stunning, but it also offers a wonderful harmony of flavors—a perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Give the steak and shrimp enough space to avoid steaming instead of searing.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the steak to rest before slicing redistributes the juices for a tender bite.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade.
- If grilling, consider cooking the shrimp on skewers for easy flipping and a lovely presentation.
- Serve with a fresh salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to complete the meal.
Variations
- Substitute flank steak with sirloin or ribeye for a different flavor experience.
- Use shrimp with shells on for added flavor during cooking.
- Incorporate a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar into the marinade for depth.
- Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a citrus twist.
How to Serve
- Slice the steak against the grain into strips and plate with the grilled shrimp.
- Drizzle with remaining melted butter and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Pair with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Marinate the steak and shrimp up to 2 hours in advance.
- Storage: Leftover steak and shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat to maintain juiciness.
- Freezing: Not recommended for this dish as it may affect the texture of the shrimp.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
When perfecting this dish, I realized how important it is to let proteins rest after cooking; this step truly enhances their tenderness. Also, the simplicity of garlic butter elevates the steak and shrimp beyond anything I could have imagined—an ideal addition to any festive occasion!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 steak strip with 3 shrimp
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 35g protein · 10g carbs · 30g fat
Garlic Butter Grilled Steak and Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk until fragrant, then add the flank steak and shrimp, making sure everything is evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high or place a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Sear the steak in the skillet or on the grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes covered with foil before slicing.
- While the steak is resting, cook the shrimp in the same skillet (or grill) with the remaining marinade for about 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink.
- Slice the steak against the grain and plate it with the grilled shrimp. Drizzle with remaining melted butter and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as ribeye or sirloin. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different cuts may require different cooking durations.
2. How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink, and their shape curls into a “C.” Be cautious not to overcook them to avoid a rubbery texture.
3. Is it necessary to marinate the steak and shrimp for 30 minutes?
While 30 minutes is ideal for flavor absorption, you can marinate for a shorter time if you’re in a hurry. Even a quick 10-15 minute marinade will enhance the dish.
4. Can I make this dish in advance for a gathering?
While the steak and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the proteins ahead of time. Cook them just before serving for the best results.
5. What sides pair well with garlic butter grilled steak and shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a light pasta. The flavors complement a variety of sides, making it versatile for any meal.
