Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet is a true rockstar of weeknight dinners! In just 20 minutes, you’ll have juicy, seared steak bites and plump, garlicky shrimp—swimming in a luscious, butter-packed sauce—all cooked together in one skillet. This savory, flavor-packed combo makes the perfect “surf and turf” that feels special but couldn’t be easier. Minimal prep, a handful of ingredients, and a punchy garlic aroma wafting from your kitchen: that’s the charm of this quick skillet sensation. If you’re craving a dinner that’ll instantly wow family and friends, keep reading—this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet is beautifully simple. Every component plays a key role—bold spices for flavor, butter for richness, and a fresh pop of parsley to finish it off. Here’s what makes this recipe truly irresistible:

• Sirloin Steak: Tender, juicy, and quick-cooking, sirloin holds its own against the bold flavors in the skillet.
• Large Shrimp: Choose peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience, and let their natural sweetness shine.
• Unsalted Butter: Using plenty of butter is the secret to the silky, garlic-kissed sauce that coats every bite.
• Garlic: Four cloves lend big, savory depth—freshly minced garlic creates the ultimate flavor bomb.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the steak beautifully while adding a subtle hint of fruitiness.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color—don’t skip this!
• Onion Powder: Gives another layer of savory, earthy flavor without dominating the dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in both steak and shrimp—season generously.
• Chopped Parsley: Brightens everything up at the end and gives an eye-catching pop of green.
• Lemon Wedges (optional): A squeeze of lemon right before serving adds a refreshing zing.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet

Step 1: Prep and Season Steak and Shrimp

Begin by patting your steak bites and shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important to get that beautiful brown sear—moisture is the enemy of a great crust! Next, season the steak pieces with a generous sprinkle of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. If you have an extra 15 minutes, try marinating the steak in olive oil, garlic, and paprika for even more intense flavor.

Step 2: Sear Steak Bites

Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in the olive oil with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is sizzling, neatly arrange the steak bites in a single, uncrowded layer—work in batches if needed. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until gorgeously browned and cooked just the way you like. Remove the steak from the skillet and keep it handy on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same hot skillet, drop in another tablespoon of butter and add the shrimp. Sprinkle over a little salt and pepper to highlight those sweet, briny flavors. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they’re perfectly pink and opaque—they cook fast, so don’t wander off!

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter and Combine

With the shrimp nearly done, add the last 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan, followed by the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute—just until the garlic releases its heavenly aroma and infuses the bubbling butter. Now, add the steak bites back into the skillet. Toss everything together so each piece gets glossy and coated in that luscious garlic butter.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove your skillet from the heat and scatter the chopped parsley all over for a fresh burst of color and flavor. If you like, add lemon wedges on the side—just a quick squeeze will wake up all the savory richness. Serve immediately, straight from the skillet, while everything is hot and glistening!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can truly make your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet shine! A generous shower of fresh chopped parsley brightens each bite and balances the buttery goodness. For extra zing, serve with lemon wedges—guests can squeeze as little or as much as they like for a custom touch. If you love a bit of flair, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving adds sparkle and crunch.

Side Dishes

This skillet superstar loves cozy sides. Pile it over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or steamed veggies for a hearty, satisfying dinner. Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or even a crisp green salad all complement the rich flavors of the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing twist, skewer the steak and shrimp for a surf-and-turf platter, or serve over garlicky toast for a rustic appetizer. Try spooning everything into lettuce cups for a fun interactive meal—perfect for casual gatherings. This dish is also amazing paired with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet, transfer leftovers to an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days—just know the shrimp is best enjoyed sooner rather than later to maintain that fresh, tender bite.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for shrimp, but you can freeze the steak bites separately for up to 2 months. Let them cool, then seal tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently (see below). For best results, cook fresh shrimp just before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, place everything back in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of extra butter or a drizzle of olive oil and cook, stirring gently, just until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent overcooking the shrimp—it only takes a few minutes on the stovetop to bring everything back to life.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While sirloin delivers tenderness and flavor, other quick-cooking cuts like ribeye or filet mignon work marvelously. Just cut the steak into even, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly alongside the shrimp.

What size shrimp should I buy?

Large shrimp (often labeled 21/25 count per pound) are perfect for this dish—they’re big enough to stay juicy, but cook quickly and pair well with the steak bites. If you use smaller shrimp, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative and you’ll still get plenty of flavor. Just be sure to choose one that’s unsalted and suitable for sautéing at higher heat to avoid burning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It sure is! Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet contains no wheat or gluten ingredients, making it a naturally gluten-free dinner option. Always double-check your seasoning blends to ensure they’re gluten-free if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

You can absolutely double or even triple it—just cook the steak and shrimp in batches to avoid crowding the pan so everything stays beautifully browned and flavorful. Toss it all together at the end before serving for a party-ready centerpiece.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s both easy to make and totally crowd-pleasing, look no further than Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet. This recipe transforms simple staples into something restaurant-worthy, right in your own kitchen. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite way to treat yourself (and your loved ones) on busy nights. Give it a try—and let the compliments roll in!

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