Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter Shrimp Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more complex flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine or beef stock after removing the steak and before adding the butter. This helps lift the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the skillet, creating a deeper, more professional sauce.

Let the liquid reduce by half before adding the butter and garlic to concentrate the flavors into a rich, velvety consistency that clings perfectly to the proteins.

If you prefer a brighter finish, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, providing a necessary balance that enhances the sweetness of the shrimp and the savory depth of the filet mignon. Freshly chopped parsley or chives can also be sprinkled over the top for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that rounds out the dish beautifully.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the butter along with the garlic for a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the butter sauce just before serving to add a fresh aroma.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheat

Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a teaspoon of water or butter until warmed through, avoiding high heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep the steak and shrimp in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Note that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon reheating, so it is best to enjoy this dish fresh. To store, place the proteins and any remaining butter sauce together in the container to keep them moist.

While this dish is best enjoyed immediately, you can prepare the ingredients in advance to speed up the process. Peel and devein the shrimp and keep them chilled. Mince the garlic and measure out your butter. You can also prepare the steaks for cooking, but avoid seasoning them too far in advance, as the salt will draw moisture out of the meat and affect the quality of the sear.

Serving ideas

Present the dish on warmed plates to ensure the butter sauce does not solidify too quickly. Place the filet mignon in the center of the plate and arrange the garlic butter shrimp elegantly on top or alongside.

Spoon any remaining sauce from the skillet over the proteins, ensuring that the garlic bits are evenly distributed. A simple side, such as steamed asparagus or a light green salad, complements the richness of the surf and turf perfectly.

When serving, provide a sharp steak knife to ensure clean slices through the filet mignon. Encourage guests to enjoy the combination of the steak and shrimp in a single bite to experience the full range of flavors.

If serving for a special occasion, consider pairing with a glass of dry white wine or a medium-bodied red wine, which will stand up well to the garlic butter and the savory profile of the beef without overwhelming the seafood.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter Shrimp

Prep 10 minCook 15 minRest 5 minTotal 30 minServes 2

Ingredients

• 2 each filet mignon steaks, 6-8 oz each
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steaks in the pan and sear without moving for 4 to 5 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for at least 3 minutes.
2. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the shrimp. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping once, until the shrimp turn opaque and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Place the rested steaks on serving plates and top with the cooked shrimp. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top and serve immediately while hot.

Contains: milk, crustaceans

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

480

Protein

42 g

Carbohydrates

1.5 g

Fat

32 g

Fiber

0.2 g

Sugar

0.5 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.