Garlic Butter Steak Shrimp

This garlic butter steak and shrimp pasta combines juicy steak cubes with tender shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Tossed with fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, and pasta, it offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. The melted butter and optional Parmesan add a rich, creamy finish that turns a simple weeknight dinner into something special.

I first tried this recipe on a whim when craving something a little fancy but quick to make. It quickly became a favorite for both casual dinners and impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Sirloin or ribeye steak: cut into bitesized cubes for tenderness and a rich flavor profile choosing meat with good marbling is key
• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined fresh or frozen work fine just avoid preseasoned shrimp to control the seasoning
• Spaghetti or linguine: classic pasta shapes that hold the sauce well select good quality pasta for better texture
• Olive oil: extra virgin preferred to add depth and healthy fats
• Butter: divided between searing and making the sauce to create a luscious finish
• Fresh garlic: minced because fresh is essential for that vibrant garlicky punch
• Italian seasoning: a blend with basil oregano and thyme adds herbal warmth
• Smoked paprika: provides subtle smokiness that elevates both steak and shrimp
• Salt and cracked black pepper: enhance all flavors naturally
• Fresh spinach: adds freshness and color balancing the richness
• Chopped roasted red peppers: bring mild sweetness and softness
• Grated Parmesan: optional but adds a salty nutty topping
• Fresh parsley: for garnish offers a bright herbal note

Instructions

Sear the Steak Bites:

Season steak cubes generously with salt pepper and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over mediumhigh heat until shimmering. Add steak in a single layer and cook undisturbed for approximately two minutes to develop a caramelized crust. Flip and sear for another two minutes until browned but still juicy inside. Remove steak from the pan and set aside to rest ensuring the flavor is locked in and texture remains tender.

Sauté the Shrimp:

In the same skillet melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook it for about thirty seconds until fragrant but not browned which helps release its full aroma. Add shrimp and sprinkle smoked paprika with a pinch of salt. Cook shrimp for two to three minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque staying careful not to overcook for the best texture. This step infuses the shrimp with buttery garlicky richness complemented by the subtle smoky paprika.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente which provides the ideal firm bite. Reserve a small cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Toss immediately with remaining butter while still warm coating each strand with a silky buttery layer making a perfect sauce base.

Build the Dish:

Add fresh spinach and chopped roasted red peppers to the warm pasta and stir gently. The spinach wilts just right without becoming mushy adding freshness and color. Fold in the shrimp so every bite has a hint of seafood mingled with vegetables and sauce. Mix gently to combine all flavors and textures evenly.

Top and Serve:

Plate the shrimp pasta first then pile seared steak bites on top. Sprinkle Parmesan on the dish if using and scatter fresh parsley for an herbal brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between tender pasta and juicy steak accompanied by garlicky shrimp.

Smoked paprika quickly became my favorite ingredient here. I was initially unsure about adding a smoky note but it really pulls all the flavors together beautifully. One of my most memorable moments was sharing this dish with my partner on a cozy night at home when they took the first bite and declared it an instant favorite.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid freezing cooked steak and shrimp with pasta as the texture tends to suffer and best to cook fresh portions for the best taste and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If smoked paprika is unavailable use regular paprika or a small pinch of cayenne for a different but pleasant warmth. Chicken breast can replace steak for a leaner meal though flavor will change. Kale or arugula can substitute for spinach to vary the green with a bit more chew and bite. Parmesan can be swapped with pecorino or left out entirely to make the dish dairyfree.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Choose a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir to complement flavors nicely.

This garlic butter steak and shrimp pasta gives you a restaurantworthy dinner in under 40 minutes. With a balance of hearty proteins and bright veggies wrapped in a luscious sauce it is a meal that always hits the spot.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do you keep the steak tender?

Cut steak into small cubes and sear quickly over medium-high heat. This locks in juices and produces a flavorful crust while keeping the interior juicy.

→ What’s the best way to cook shrimp here?

Sauté peeled shrimp with minced garlic, smoked paprika, and butter for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and firm but not rubbery.

→ Can I use different pasta types?

Yes, spaghetti, linguine, or other long pasta work well since they hold the garlic butter sauce elegantly.

→ How to keep spinach bright and fresh?

Add fresh spinach at the end of mixing so it wilts just enough to retain a vibrant color and slight crunch.

→ Is Parmesan cheese necessary?

Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish but can be omitted or replaced by another hard cheese to suit preferences.