Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails

Introduction

Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails is the epitome of luxury and indulgence, combining the rich, savory flavors of a perfectly cooked steak with the delicate sweetness of tender lobster tails. This classic combination offers the best of both worlds: a juicy, flavorful steak paired with succulent lobster, making it the ideal dish for special occasions, romantic dinners, or when you simply want to treat yourself. Whether grilled, broiled, or baked, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

I remember the first time I made this for a special dinner. The sizzle of the steak and the aroma of the lobster filling the kitchen made the entire experience feel like a celebration. What’s great about Surf and Turf is how customizable it can be—you can opt for a bold, well-seasoned steak or keep it simple to let the natural flavors shine, and with the lobster tails, you can add butter, garlic, or herbs to elevate the flavor even further. The contrast between the richness of the steak and the sweetness of the lobster creates a perfect balance, making every bite a little bit of indulgence.

This dish may seem like something you’d only order at a fancy restaurant, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few high-quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a meal that feels extravagant without the hassle. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or treating yourself to something special, Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails will definitely impress and satisfy your cravings for something luxurious!

Perfect for:

  • Special occasions
  • Romantic dinners
  • Holiday meals
  • Celebrating milestones
  • Date nights

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails will become a go-to favorite:

  • Perfectly Cooked Steak: The steak is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, seared to perfection for a mouthwatering bite.
  • Sweet, Tender Lobster: The lobster tails are sweet, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, complementing the steak beautifully.
  • Elegant & Simple: This dish sounds fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the steak doneness and lobster seasoning to your liking, tailoring the meal to your taste.
  • Ideal Pairing: The combination of steak and lobster offers a delicious contrast between rich, savory, and light, sweet flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 2 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 50g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 40g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails:

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for basting)

For the Lobster Tails:

  • 2 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Steak: Choose a high-quality cut like ribeye or filet mignon for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  • Lobster Tails: Lobster is sweet and delicate, making it the perfect complement to the richness of the steak.
  • Butter: Adds richness to both the lobster and steak, helping to enhance the flavors.
  • Garlic & Herbs: Fresh garlic, thyme, and rosemary add an aromatic depth to the dish, balancing the richness of the butter and meat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails:

Prepare the Steak:

  1. Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add fresh thyme or rosemary if desired for extra flavor.
  2. Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
  3. Sear the Steaks: Place the steaks in the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness). Add butter to the pan and baste the steaks with the melted butter for the final minute of cooking. Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

  1. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, cut down the top of the lobster tails, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat up and out, resting it on top of the shell. This is known as “piggybacking” the lobster.
  2. Season the Lobster: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Brush the lobster meat generously with the butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook the Lobster: Preheat your oven’s broiler or a grill. Place the lobster tails under the broiler (or on the grill) for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through, basting with the butter mixture halfway through.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Plate the Dish: Slice the steak and place it alongside the lobster tails on the plate. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
  2. Serve Immediately: Serve your Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve

Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails can be served with a variety of sides and garnishes:

  • With Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of the steak and lobster.
  • With Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or a medley of seasonal vegetables make for a light and healthy side.
  • With a Fresh Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the main dish.
  • With Steamed Rice: A side of buttery steamed rice adds a neutral base to the meal.
  • With a Light White Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors of the lobster.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails turn out perfectly:

  • Don’t Overcook the Lobster: Lobster cooks quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it. Overcooking can result in tough, rubbery lobster.
  • Let the Steak Rest: After cooking, allow the steak to rest before slicing to retain its juices and ensure it stays tender.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect steak doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired internal temperature.
  • Brush with Butter: For extra richness, feel free to brush the lobster with more butter throughout the cooking process.

Recipe Variations

Here are 5 variations you can try for Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails:

  • Garlic Herb Butter Steak and Lobster: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley to the melted butter for a more aromatic flavor.
  • Grilled Surf and Turf: Grill both the steak and lobster tails for a smoky, charred flavor.
  • Lobster Tail with Lemon Garlic Sauce: Serve the lobster with a tangy lemon garlic butter sauce for an added burst of citrus.
  • Steak with Blue Cheese Crust: Add a blue cheese crust to the steak for a creamy, bold addition.
  • Cajun Seasoned Surf and Turf: Use Cajun seasoning on both the steak and lobster tails for a spiced-up twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: It’s best to enjoy Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails fresh, as lobster does not freeze well. However, you can freeze leftover steak for up to 2-3 months and reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven.
  • Storage: Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Lobster tails are best eaten fresh and should be consumed immediately after cooking.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails easier:

  • Cast-Iron Skillet: Ideal for searing the steak and getting that perfect crust.
  • Kitchen Scissors: Perfect for cutting open the lobster tails.
  • Basting Brush: For applying the butter mixture to the lobster tails.
  • Meat Thermometer: Ensures that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
  • Broiler or Grill: For cooking the lobster tails to perfection.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of steak?
    Yes! You can use a sirloin, New York strip, or any steak of your choice. Ribeye and filet mignon are recommended for their tenderness.
  2. How do I know when the lobster tails are cooked?
    The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch. If it’s still translucent, it needs more time.
  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    It’s best to prepare the lobster and steak fresh, but you can prep the steak by seasoning it ahead of time and refrigerating it until cooking.
  4. Can I use frozen lobster tails?
    Yes, frozen lobster tails work well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
  5. What side dishes pair best with this meal?
    Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad are excellent choices to complement the richness of this dish.
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Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails

  • Author: Patricia
  • Prep Time: : 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks (68 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for basting)

For the Lobster Tails:

  • 2 lobster tails (68 oz each)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Steak:

  1. Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add fresh thyme or rosemary if desired for extra flavor.
  2. Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
  3. Sear the Steaks: Place the steaks in the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness). Add butter to the pan and baste the steaks with the melted butter for the final minute of cooking. Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

  1. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, cut down the top of the lobster tails, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat up and out, resting it on top of the shell. This is known as “piggybacking” the lobster.
  2. Season the Lobster: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Brush the lobster meat generously with the butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook the Lobster: Preheat your oven’s broiler or a grill. Place the lobster tails under the broiler (or on the grill) for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through, basting with the butter mixture halfway through.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Plate the Dish: Slice the steak and place it alongside the lobster tails on the plate. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
  2. Serve Immediately: Serve your Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 servings
  • Calories: 600-700
  • Fat: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 50g

Did you make this recipe?

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Conclusion

Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails is a luxurious, mouthwatering meal that combines the best of both land and sea. Whether for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its tender, juicy steak paired with succulent lobster tails. The rich, smoky flavors of the steak complement the sweet, delicate taste of the lobster, creating a perfectly balanced and indulgent meal.

This gourmet dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for everything from romantic dinners to celebratory gatherings. Whether you’re grilling or searing the steak to perfection and butter-poaching the lobster tails, each bite delivers a blend of textures and flavors that’s pure luxury.

I’d love to see how your Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Bon appétit!