Craving that perfect surf and turf combo? You’re not alone! Steak and shrimp make for an irresistible match, whether you’re throwing a fancy dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home. But once you’ve nailed your protein duo, the big question pops up, what goes with steak and shrimp to make the meal complete?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a wide array of side dishes, salads, sauces, drinks, and even plating tips that complement this mouthwatering pair. From garlic mashed potatoes to grilled asparagus, and from buttery rice to the perfect wine pairing, you’ll get everything you need to serve up an unforgettable meal.
Let’s dive into the delicious world of surf and turf combinations!
Introduction to the Classic Surf and Turf Combo
Why Steak and Shrimp is a Timeless Duo
There’s just something magical about the combination of juicy steak and tender shrimp. It’s a high end restaurant classic that people love recreating at home. Why? Because the rich, meaty texture of steak complements the light, slightly sweet taste of shrimp beautifully. It’s a flavor contrast that just works, like yin and yang, or peanut butter and jelly (but way fancier).
Plus, steak and shrimp are super versatile. Whether you’re grilling them on the BBQ or pan searing with garlic butter, this duo fits right into casual meals or five star dinners. No wonder it’s the go-to choice for celebrations, holidays, and date nights.
How Pairing Sides Enhances the Experience
Now, here’s the real kicker: the right side dishes and sauces don’t just fill the plate, they elevate the entire meal. The right pairing can highlight those savory flavors, balance out the richness, or bring in a fresh, zesty kick.
So, what goes with steak and shrimp? The answer ranges from buttery mashed potatoes and steamed veggies to seasoned rice pilaf and zesty salads. And don’t forget those little extras like dipping sauces and drinks, they might just steal the show.
Stick around as we dig deep into all the perfect pairings that’ll turn your surf and turf dinner into a full-blown feast!
What Goes with Steak and Shrimp? Top Side Dishes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Meets Savory
When it comes to side dishes, garlic mashed potatoes are an absolute classic, and for good reason. They’re smooth, buttery, and subtly garlicky, which balances the bold, savory flavor of steak while still letting your shrimp shine.
Want to amp things up? Add a touch of cream cheese or roasted garlic for an extra layer of indulgence. Oh, and don’t forget to sprinkle on some chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
If you’re into flavor layering, check out this guide on seasoning basics to enhance your mashed potato game!
Grilled Asparagus and Other Green Veggies
Now let’s talk greens. Grilled asparagus adds that touch of smoky crispness that plays perfectly with tender shrimp and juicy steak. A quick toss in olive oil, lemon juice, and cracked pepper before grilling, and boom! You’ve got a fresh and vibrant plate that’s packed with flavor.
Other great options? Try sautéed green beans, garlic butter broccoli, or even a zesty brussels sprout slaw. These sides not only balance the richness of surf and turf but also add texture and crunch.
So if you’re ever stuck wondering what goes with steak and shrimp, a simple veggie medley can turn a good dish into a great one.
Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food at Its Best
If you’re craving something rich and cheesy, mac and cheese never disappoints. It’s creamy, comforting, and the perfect indulgence alongside bold proteins like steak and shrimp.
For an elevated twist, use sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or even a hint of truffle oil. Want a Southern-style dinner? Serve your steak and shrimp over a bed of baked mac with crispy topping, chef’s kiss!
Dinner Rolls, Biscuits, or Garlic Bread?
You can’t go wrong with a warm, buttery carb to round things out. Dinner rolls are soft and pillowy, perfect for soaking up juices. Buttermilk biscuits bring a rustic touch, especially if you’re leaning Southern.
But if you’re craving bold flavor, garlic bread wins every time. It’s especially good if you’re serving shrimp with a garlic butter sauce, trust me, your guests will be fighting over the last slice!
So next time you’re planning dinner and ask yourself what goes with steak and shrimp, don’t skip the bread basket, it’s a flavor vehicle all on its own.
Ideal Salads to Serve with Steak and Shrimp
Caesar Salad with a Twist
Looking to lighten things up? A crisp Caesar salad offers the perfect balance. The creamy dressing complements the grilled steak, while the crisp romaine and Parmesan pair beautifully with shrimp.
To put a spin on it, try adding grilled corn, avocado slices, or lemon zest. You can even toss in some homemade croutons seasoned with your favorite herbs (see this article for inspiration).
It’s fresh, fast, and far from boring.
Refreshing Garden Salads and Vinaigrettes
If you’re craving something lighter than Caesar, a simple garden salad with a bright vinaigrette is a fabulous match. Think cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, red onions, and leafy greens, drizzled in a lemon-balsamic or honey-mustard vinaigrette.
This type of salad adds a refreshing contrast that makes your main dish pop. And guess what? It also answers that age old question: What goes with steak and shrimp when you’re after something clean and crisp.
What Sauces Go with Steak and Shrimp?
Garlic Butter, Chimichurri, and Béarnaise
If you’re serving up steak and shrimp, let’s be honest, you need a knockout sauce. First up, we’ve got the forever favorite: garlic butter. It’s rich, flavorful, and enhances both steak and shrimp without stealing the spotlight.
For something with a herby punch, chimichurri is your friend. This vibrant green sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil brings bold flavor and just the right amount of tang.
And if you’re feeling fancy? Whip up a creamy béarnaise sauce. It’s a French classic made with egg yolk, butter and tarragon, and it pairs incredibly well with steak.
These sauces not only boost flavor, but they also help answer that delicious question: what goes with steak and shrimp that’ll really wow your taste buds?
Seafood Sauces: Cocktail, Lemon Dill, or Creamy Garlic
Don’t let your shrimp go naked, seafood sauces can take them to the next level! Classic cocktail sauce brings that zesty, spicy kick with horseradish and ketchup. It’s perfect if you’re going for a more traditional vibe.
Feeling something a bit brighter? Try a lemon dill sauce. The citrus cuts through the richness of both proteins, while dill adds an earthy twist that works especially well with shrimp.
And if you’re not afraid of indulgence, creamy garlic sauce is a showstopper. It clings to everything on your plate and gives you those “I need more bread to scoop this up” moments.
Sauces are more than just a finishing touch, they can completely transform your surf and turf plate!
Rice and Pasta Options for Steak and Shrimp Meals
Herbed Rice Pilaf or Garlic Butter Rice
Now, let’s talk carbs, and we don’t mean boring white rice. A herbed rice pilaf, cooked with chicken broth, garlic, and fresh herbs, adds depth and aroma that lifts your whole plate.
But here’s a trick: garlic butter rice. It’s super simple, made with sautéed garlic and melted butter, and it pairs beautifully with both shrimp and steak. It’s one of those easy sides that doesn’t try too hard but still steals the show.
And yes, when someone asks what goes with steak and shrimp, rice is often the right answer.
Don’t shy away from experimenting, toss in some scallions, lemon zest, or even a pinch of smoked paprika to make it pop.
Creamy Pasta or Light Angel Hair with Lemon Sauce
If rice isn’t your thing, pasta’s got your back. A creamy Alfredo pasta is rich, velvety, and turns your steak and shrimp dinner into a restaurant level experience. The creaminess coats everything and gives you that ultimate comfort feel.
But maybe you’re craving something lighter? Angel hair pasta with a lemon garlic sauce is the way to go. It’s fresh, zesty, and lets the flavors of your steak and shrimp shine through without weighing things down.
And here’s the kicker, pasta is ridiculously versatile. You can infuse it with herbs, toss in veggies, or even sprinkle in a bit of parmesan to make it pop.
Best Drinks to Pair with Steak and Shrimp
Red Wine or White? Matching Wines to Both Proteins
When you’re planning your surf and turf dinner, drinks matter just as much as sides or sauces. A good glass of wine can bring out flavors you didn’t even know were there. So, what goes with steak and shrimp when it comes to wine?
For the steak, you might lean toward a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. These reds stand up to the richness of the beef and add depth to each bite.
But shrimp calls for something lighter, right? That’s where white wine steps in. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood, especially when it’s grilled or served with a lemon butter sauce.
So here’s a tip: if you’re serving both proteins together, go for a rosé or a light Pinot Noir. These versatile wines play nice with both steak and shrimp, offering the best of both worlds.
Beer, Cocktails, and Non Alcoholic Pairings
Not a wine person? No worries, there are plenty of other drinks to sip with steak and shrimp.
Craft beer is a great choice. A hoppy IPA balances shrimp’s sweetness, while a smooth stout or amber ale complements the steak’s richness.
Prefer cocktails? Try a whiskey sour or bourbon smash for steak, and go with a mojito or citrusy margarita for shrimp. Just remember, balance is key, nothing too sweet or overpowering.
For non-alcoholic drinks, sparkling water with lemon or a chilled herbal iced tea works wonders. These fresh sips cleanse the palate and let the main flavors shine.
Creative Plating and Meal Presentation Tips
Balancing Colors and Textures on the Plate
Let’s be real, we eat with our eyes first. So if you want your steak and shrimp dinner to impress, how you plate it is just as important as how it tastes.
Start with contrast. Darker steak next to golden shrimp already looks amazing, but add some vibrant greens or roasted reds, like grilled asparagus or bell peppers, and your plate instantly pops.
Layering textures also helps. Pair crispy veggies with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta. Use a small drizzle of sauce across the plate, not just on the food, to tie the whole dish together visually.
And yes, when people ask what goes with steak and shrimp to make it truly special, the answer often includes a touch of style on the plate!
Elevating the Dining Experience at Home
Even if you’re not a trained chef, there are small tricks that elevate your home-cooked meal. Use real plates instead of disposable ones, light a few candles, and serve drinks in proper glassware. These little things matter.
Consider adding a garnish, like a lemon wedge, a sprig of rosemary, or even a small edible flower. It’s simple, but it makes a huge difference in how the dish feels.
And hey, don’t forget to serve with confidence. Because when your guests taste your perfectly paired steak and shrimp, with all the right sides, sauces, and drinks, they’ll know you nailed it.
What Not to Serve with Steak and Shrimp
Clashing Flavors and Overpowering Ingredients
While many sides and sauces pair beautifully with steak and shrimp, not everything works. Some ingredients can overpower or clash with the delicate balance of the dish.
For example, strongly spiced dishes like overly peppery sides or spicy buffalo sauces can drown out the natural flavors of shrimp. Similarly, anything too sweet, like sugary glazes or candied yams, might fight with the rich, savory steak.
In short, when asking what goes with steak and shrimp?, also ask what doesn’t. Steer clear of ingredients that throw off the balance or steal the spotlight.
Why Simplicity Sometimes Wins
Sometimes, less really is more. Overloading the plate with too many bold flavors, textures, or colors can make the meal feel chaotic instead of cohesive.
Simple choices like herb-seasoned veggies, light vinaigrettes, and classic mashed potatoes allow the surf and turf to be the stars of the show.
So, if you’re unsure, stick with clean flavors and fresh ingredients. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I serve steak and shrimp with pasta?
Absolutely! Pasta is a great match for both proteins. Creamy Alfredo, garlic butter noodles, or lemony angel hair pasta all pair well without overpowering the dish.
What vegetables pair best with steak and shrimp?
Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, green beans, and roasted bell peppers are top picks. They add crunch, color, and balance to the meal.
Can you use the same sauce for both steak and shrimp?
Yes, and it can be a game changer! Garlic butter, lemon herb sauce, or even a mild béarnaise can complement both without clashing.
How do I make steak and shrimp a full course meal?
Start with a fresh salad or light soup. Serve your steak and shrimp with a balanced side (like rice or potatoes), and finish with a simple dessert, think fruit tart or crème brûlée.
And of course, don’t forget the drinks!
Final Thoughts and Meal Ideas
Bringing steak and shrimp together on one plate is already a win, but when you choose the right sides, sauces, and drinks, it becomes an unforgettable meal. From creamy garlic mashed potatoes to crisp salads and zesty sauces, the options are endless. Whether you’re serving a fancy dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, knowing what goes with steak and shrimp helps you build a dish that’s balanced, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
To take it a step further, don’t be afraid to mix and match. Try pairing herbed rice with lemon garlic shrimp or serving chimichurri steak with grilled asparagus and a bold red wine. The beauty of surf and turf is its versatility, you can dress it up or down and still wow your guests.
So next time you’re in the kitchen, use this guide as your go-to resource for building the perfect steak and shrimp dinner. With the right pairings, you won’t just serve a meal, you’ll create an experience.
Bon appétit!