Classic Surf and Turf Feast

Name: Classic Surf and Turf Feast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ribeye steaks, about 1 inch thick; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 4 lobster tails; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love hosting dinner parties, and my Classic Surf and Turf Feast always steals the show! The combination of succulent steak paired with luscious lobster tail creates a truly decadent meal that feels luxurious without being overly complicated. I take pride in using fresh ingredients and simple techniques to make the most of each component’s flavors. With just a few key tips, anyone can impress their guests with this delightful dish. Let’s dive into this unforgettable culinary experience that’s perfect for special occasions.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:54:29.957Z

When I first experimented with creating a surf and turf dinner, I learned a valuable lesson about timing. Cooking the steak and lobster simultaneously is the key to ensuring everything is served hot and fresh. I like to sear my steaks to perfection, letting the natural flavors shine through, while boiling the lobster tails gives them that tender, juicy crunch.

Another tip is to balance the flavors with a simple garlic herb butter. This sauce enhances both the steak and the lobster, creating a cohesive dish that elevates your dining experience. I promise you’ll feel like a gourmet chef when you serve this beauty!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Indulgent combination of rich steak and sweet lobster
Perfectly cooked proteins that melt in your mouth
Elevates any dinner occasion to fine dining level

      

Mastering the Art of Cooking Steak

Achieving the perfect steak is all about timing and heat. Start by bringing your ribeye steaks to room temperature, which allows for more even cooking. Using a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan is ideal because it retains heat well. Searing your steaks on high heat ensures a beautifully golden crust while keeping the interior juicy. I recommend a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F for medium-rare ensures that melt-in-your-mouth texture you want.

Once your steaks are cooked to your liking, let them rest for at least five minutes before slicing. Resting redistributes the juices, preventing them from flowing out when cut. For added flavor, consider topping the steak with a pat of compound butter made with herbs or blue cheese right before serving. It’s the small touches that elevate this dish.

Perfectly Cooked Lobster Tails

Cooking lobster tails can be intimidating, but with a bit of knowledge, it becomes a delightful experience. When boiling, make sure your water is at a rapid boil before adding the lobster tails. This not only helps in cooking them evenly but also locks in moisture. The shells should turn a vibrant red and the meat should look opaque when they are done. To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the time—set a timer for around eight minutes and adjust according to the size of the tails.

An essential tip is to split the lobster tails before cooking. This not only allows for easier eating but also ensures the meat cooks evenly. When you cut through the top shell, be careful not to cut too deep; you want to expose the meat while leaving the shell intact for presentation purposes later. Pair the lobster with a squeeze of fresh lemon, or drizzle more garlic butter just before serving for an extra touch of richness.

Serving Suggestions and Wine Pairings

When plating your surf and turf, presentation matters. I like to arrange the steak and lobster side by side, drizzling the lobster with garlic butter while adding a pinch of fresh parsley for color. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple arugula salad or roasted asparagus to balance out the richness of the steak and lobster. This will make your plate visually appealing and complement the meal's flavors.

Pairing wine with your feast can enhance the dining experience. A full-bodied red, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, contrasts beautifully with the richness of the steak. For the lobster, a crisp Chardonnay or a light Prosecco brings out the sweetness of the shellfish. Offering both options at your dinner party invites guests to explore and choose their favorites, making the occasion even more special.

Ingredients

For the Steak

4 ribeye steaks, about 1 inch thick
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

For the Lobster

4 lobster tails
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Make sure to choose high-quality ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Steak

Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and rosemary. Sear each steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust according to your preference.

Cook the Lobster

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lobster tails, cooking them for 8-10 minutes until the shells are bright red and the meat is opaque. Remove and cool briefly, then slice the shells to expose the meat.

Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and lemon juice, allowing it to cook until fragrant. Drizzle the mixture over the cooked lobster tails.

Serve

Plates the steak alongside the lobster tails, and spoon the garlic butter over both. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Enjoy your luxurious meal!

Pro Tips

For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Also, consider grilling the steak for an added smoky flavor!

Ingredient Substitutions and Dietary Swaps

If ribeye isn’t available, feel free to use sirloin or filet mignon for your steak option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness and cut. For a leaner option, you might also consider grilled chicken or fish, but make sure to adjust the marinade to complement the seafood flavors in the dish.

For those following a gluten-free diet, be assured that this recipe is naturally gluten-free! The only thing to watch out for is the seasoning mix you may use for the steak. Be cautious with pre-mixed spice blends and ensure they are labeled gluten-free.

Make-Ahead Tips

While surf and turf is a meal best served fresh, there are some components you can prepare in advance. For instance, you can season your steaks with salt, pepper, garlic, and rosemary a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the taste when cooked.

For the garlic butter, you can melt and mix the ingredients ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and warm it up just before drizzling over your lobsters. This not only saves you time but ensures flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to give it a gentle reheat to bring back its luscious consistency.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

If you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare), store the steak and lobster tails separately in airtight containers. Properly cooled and sealed, they can stay fresh in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, avoid the microwave; instead, gently warm them in a skillet on low heat to prevent dryness.

For the best results, consider slicing the steak before warming it and adding a splash of beef broth to the skillet. The broth will keep the meat moist and add flavor. For the lobster, a brief reheat in the garlic butter will help restore some of its original moisture and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the steak and lobster in advance?

It's best to cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables or a simple salad with vinaigrette complement the surf and turf beautifully.

→ Can I use a different type of steak?

Absolutely! Filet mignon or T-bone are excellent alternatives for a classic pairing.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for surf and turf?

You can substitute steak with grilled portobello mushrooms and use seafood-style plant-based lobster alternatives.