Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs are a flavorful grilled dish that combines tender steak and juicy shrimp on skewers, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe brings together the best of land and sea in one delicious meal. Because the ingredients cook quickly and evenly on skewers, these kabobs are perfect for backyard grilling, family dinners, or weekend gatherings.
The term “surf and turf” refers to the pairing of seafood with meat, most commonly shrimp with steak. When grilled together and brushed with garlic butter, the flavors become rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs highlight this classic combination while adding the convenience of skewers that make cooking and serving simple.
Another reason this dish is so popular is its versatility. These kabobs can be served as a main dish with rice or vegetables, or they can be prepared as a fun grilled appetizer for guests. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can prepare this flavorful meal at home.
In this guide, you will learn everything about making Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs from scratch. We will explore the ingredients, preparation methods, grilling techniques, helpful tips, and serving ideas to help you achieve perfectly grilled kabobs every time.
JUMP TO
Table of Contents
What Are Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs are skewers that combine pieces of steak and shrimp, grilled together and coated with garlic butter.
The Meaning of Surf and Turf
The phrase “surf and turf” refers to dishes that combine seafood with meat. This pairing is popular because it blends two different flavors and textures in one meal.
Steak provides a rich and hearty flavor, while shrimp adds a lighter seafood taste.
Why Kabobs Work So Well
Using skewers allows the steak and shrimp to cook together evenly on the grill. Kabobs also make the dish easier to handle during grilling and serving.
Additionally, skewers allow marinades and sauces to coat each piece of food evenly.
Garlic Butter Flavor
Garlic butter plays an important role in this recipe. The butter adds richness, while garlic brings a strong and savory aroma that complements both steak and shrimp.
When brushed over the kabobs during grilling, the garlic butter enhances the flavor of every bite.
Why Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs Are So Popular
This dish has become popular because it combines bold flavors with simple preparation.
A Perfect Combination of Steak and Shrimp
The combination of steak and shrimp provides both variety and balance. Steak offers a deep, savory flavor, while shrimp adds a slightly sweet and delicate seafood taste.
Together, they create a satisfying dish that appeals to many people.
Quick Grilling Time
Because both steak and shrimp cook quickly, Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs can be ready in a short amount of time.
This makes them ideal for busy evenings or casual gatherings where you want a delicious meal without long cooking times.
Great for Outdoor Cooking
Kabobs are especially popular for grilling because they are easy to cook and flip on the grill.
| Occasion | Serving Idea |
|---|---|
| Backyard BBQ | Serve fresh off the grill |
| Family dinner | Pair with rice or salad |
| Weekend gathering | Prepare multiple skewers |
| Casual party | Serve as appetizers |
The simple presentation also makes these kabobs visually appealing.
Ingredients Needed for Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs
Understanding the ingredients helps ensure the best flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Steak (sirloin or ribeye) | Provides rich meat flavor |
| Shrimp | Adds seafood flavor |
| Butter | Creates garlic butter sauce |
| Garlic | Adds strong aroma |
| Olive oil | Helps coat ingredients |
| Lemon juice | Adds freshness |
| Black pepper | Adds mild spice |
| Fresh parsley | Garnish |
These ingredients combine to create a savory and aromatic dish.
Choosing the Best Steak
Tender cuts such as sirloin or ribeye work well for kabobs. These cuts cook quickly and remain juicy when grilled.
Cut the steak into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
Selecting Good Shrimp
Large shrimp are best for kabobs because they hold their shape during grilling.
Shrimp should be peeled and deveined before cooking.
Kitchen Tools You Will Need
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs require only a few basic cooking tools.
Essential Equipment
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Grill or grill pan | Cook the kabobs |
| Skewers | Hold steak and shrimp |
| Mixing bowl | Prepare garlic butter |
| Knife | Cut steak |
| Cutting board | Prepare ingredients |
If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water helps prevent burning during grilling.
How the Garlic Butter Sauce Works
The garlic butter sauce is what gives these kabobs their signature flavor.
Preparing the Garlic Butter
The sauce is typically made by melting butter and mixing it with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.
This mixture becomes a rich coating that enhances both steak and shrimp.
Marinating the Ingredients
Although the kabobs cook quickly, brushing them with garlic butter before grilling helps develop flavor.
Additional garlic butter can be brushed on while grilling.
Flavor Development on the Grill
As the kabobs cook, the garlic butter caramelizes slightly and creates a savory coating on the steak and shrimp.
This process enhances the aroma and adds depth to the flavor.
Preparing the Surf and Turf Kabobs
Before grilling, the steak and shrimp must be prepared and assembled.
Cutting the Steak
Cut the steak into cubes that are roughly the same size as the shrimp. This helps ensure both ingredients cook evenly.
Threading the Skewers
Alternate steak and shrimp pieces on the skewers. Leaving a small space between pieces helps heat circulate evenly.
Preparing the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grilling Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs
Grilling is the best cooking method for these kabobs because it adds smoky flavor.
Ideal Grill Temperature
A medium-high grill temperature allows the steak to develop a slight char while cooking the shrimp quickly.
Cooking Time
The kabobs usually cook in 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of the steak cubes.
Turn the skewers occasionally to cook them evenly.
Checking for Doneness
The steak should reach the desired level of doneness while the shrimp should turn pink and opaque.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as it can become tough.
Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs Recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Steak (sirloin or ribeye) | 1 pound |
| Large shrimp (peeled) | 1 pound |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley | Optional garnish |
Instructions
- Cut the steak into evenly sized cubes.
- In a bowl, melt the butter and mix it with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.
- Thread steak and shrimp alternately onto skewers.
- Brush the kabobs with the garlic butter mixture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill.
- Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush with additional garlic butter while grilling.
- Remove once the shrimp are pink and the steak is cooked to your preference.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic and good-quality butter produce the best flavor.
Cut Even Pieces
Uniform steak cubes ensure even cooking.
Do Not Overcook Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly and should be removed from the grill as soon as it turns pink.
Serving Ideas for Surf and Turf Kabobs
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs pair well with many side dishes.
Rice
Steamed rice absorbs the garlic butter sauce.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms complement the kabobs.
Fresh Salad
A simple salad adds freshness and balance to the meal.
Flatbread
Warm flatbread or pita can be served alongside the kabobs.
How to Store Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs
Refrigeration
Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Freezing
The cooked steak pieces can be frozen, but shrimp is best eaten fresh.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs
Can I cook these kabobs in the oven?
Yes, they can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 minutes.
Can I use other seafood?
Yes, scallops can be used instead of shrimp.
Can I marinate the steak?
Yes, marinating the steak for a short time can add extra flavor.
Can vegetables be added to the skewers?
Yes, bell peppers and onions work well.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs are a delicious grilled dish that combines tender steak and juicy shrimp with rich garlic butter flavor. Because they cook quickly and require simple ingredients, they are perfect for both casual dinners and outdoor gatherings.
Whether served with rice, vegetables, or fresh salad, these kabobs deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture that make them a favorite grilling recipe.
PrintGarlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs – Easy Grilled Steak and Shrimp
Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Kabobs are flavorful grilled skewers made with tender steak and juicy shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or weekend grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into cubes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cut the steak into evenly sized cubes.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.
- Thread steak and shrimp alternately onto skewers.
- Brush the kabobs with the garlic butter mixture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush the kabobs with additional garlic butter while grilling.
- Cook until the shrimp turn pink and the steak reaches your desired doneness.
- Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling.
- Cut steak cubes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp, as they cook quickly and can become tough.
- You can add vegetables such as bell peppers or onions to the skewers.
- Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
