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Surf & Turf Golden Fries

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

Enjoy a savory combination of perfectly seared steak, juicy sautéed shrimp, and crispy hand-cut golden fries. The steak is seasoned and basted with garlic butter and fresh herbs, while the shrimp bursts with lemon and a touch of paprika. Crisp fries bring everything together with a satisfying crunch, cooked until deeply golden. Plate everything for striking color and maximum flavour, garnishing with herbs or a dollop of garlic aioli. This dish makes an impressive centerpiece, uniting land and sea flavors with irresistible texture and freshness.

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Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Wed, 28 May 2025 14:29:37 GMT
A plate of food with steak and fries. Save
A plate of food with steak and fries. | recipesfoodyummy.com

Surf and turf with golden fries is the ultimate crowd-pleaser comfort food platter. Juicy steak and buttery shrimp share the plate with crisp homemade fries so everyone gets what they love. Whether for a celebration or an indulgent weekend treat this dish always feels a little special without being complicated to pull off.

The first time I made this I served it for an at-home date night. Ever since it is our favorite meal to cook together and share after a busy week.

Ingredients

  • Ribeye or striploin steak: pick one at least one inch thick so it stays juicy
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: bring out the rich beefy flavor
  • Olive oil: use a robust variety for searing
  • Butter: adds richness and helps get a gorgeous crust
  • Garlic clove: smashed releases more flavor when basting the steak
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme: choose aromatic sprigs for classic pairing with beef
  • Large shrimp: look for them peeled and deveined to save time
  • Lemon juice: use real lemon for brightness
  • Paprika: choose sweet or smoked for subtle flavor on the shrimp
  • Russet potatoes: cut thick for authentic fries and crisp texture
  • Vegetable oil: choose one with a high smoke point like peanut or canola
  • Salt: season every component generously for best flavor
  • Optional garlic powder and parmesan: for amping up the fries extra tip never skip if you love bold fries
  • When shopping: pick fresh steak with good marbling firm potatoes and shrimp that smell like the sea not fish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Fries:
Cut russet potatoes into thick sticks. Soak them in cold water for at least thirty minutes to remove excess starch for extra crispiness. Drain and dry completely using towels.
Fry the Potatoes:
Bring a deep pot of oil to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding and fry until they are golden and crisp about three to five minutes. Remove fries and drain on a paper towel lined tray. Toss with salt and seasonings while still hot.
Prepare the Steak:
Let the steak reach room temperature for even cooking. Pat dry then season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a heavy skillet until very hot and add olive oil. Sear steak for two to three minutes per side pressing gently for an even crust. During the last minute add butter smashed garlic and rosemary. Tilt the skillet and use a spoon to baste the steak in sizzling butter for a deeper flavor.
Rest and Slice the Steak:
Transfer the steak to a warm plate and let it rest uncovered for at least five minutes. Slice against the grain to keep every bite tender and juicy.
Sauté the Shrimp:
In a separate pan heat olive oil over medium high. Add minced garlic and cook quickly until fragrant about thirty seconds. Add shrimp and paprika with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté shrimp for one to two minutes per side until bright pink. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top and remove from heat.
Plating for Maximum Deliciousness:
Arrange steak slices fanned out on half the plate. Nestle shrimp beside the steak and pile golden fries on the remaining side. For a gourmet touch sprinkle parsley and serve with garlic aioli or herbed butter.
A plate of food with meat and fries. Save
A plate of food with meat and fries. | recipesfoodyummy.com

My favorite part is basting the steak with garlicky butter and herbs. Sometimes everyone gathers around the skillet to watch and it feels like a mini cooking show at home. That herby aroma always signals dinner is about to be special.

Storage Tips

Leftover steak keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently so it does not get tough. Fries are best eaten fresh but you can crisp them up in a hot oven the next day. Cooked shrimp should be eaten within two days. For meal prep store each element separately to keep the fries from getting soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

No steak Try boneless chicken breast or thick portobello mushrooms for a twist. Swap shrimp for scallops or even lobster pieces if you want to splurge. For the fries sweet potatoes work well and add a touch of sweetness. Out of fresh herbs dried rosemary is a solid backup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or classic coleslaw. Add little ramekins of aioli or spicy ketchup for dipping the fries. Garlic butter or a pat of blue cheese on the steak takes things over the top. This dish shines at family dinners date nights or anytime you want something a little indulgent.

Cultural Context

Surf and turf is a classic steakhouse favorite that brings together land and sea on one plate—a true symbol of indulgence. Fries on the side amp up that casual but celebratory vibe. The dish is loved across North America and often feels like a restaurant treat you can easily conquer at home.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you achieve a golden, crispy fry?

Soak potato slices in cold water to remove excess starch, dry them thoroughly, and fry in hot oil at 350°F until crisp and golden. Season immediately afterward.

→ What’s the best way to cook steak for juicy results?

Let the steak reach room temperature, season well, sear at high heat, then baste with butter, garlic, and herbs, and rest before slicing.

→ How do you keep shrimp tender and flavorful?

Cook shrimp quickly over high heat, adding garlic and spices, then finish with lemon juice. Avoid overcooking for juicy texture.

→ Can the fries be made with different potatoes?

Russet potatoes are ideal for crispness, but Yukon Golds can work for a creamier inside and crisp exterior.

→ What are good garnishes to enhance the dish?

Fresh parsley, a drizzle of garlic aioli, or herb butter complement the steak and seafood beautifully when served.

Surf & Turf with Golden Fries

Tender steak and shrimp paired with homemade golden fries for a classic, crowd-pleasing combination.

Prep Time
40 mins
Cooking Time
20 mins
Total Duration
60 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: International

Portions Yielded: 2 Serving Size (1 steak, 8–10 shrimp, and golden fries)

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Steak

01 1 ribeye or striploin steak, 2.5–4 cm thick
02 Salt, to taste
03 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
04 15 ml olive oil
05 15 g unsalted butter
06 1 garlic clove, smashed
07 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme

→ Shrimp

08 8–10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
09 15 ml olive oil
10 1 garlic clove, minced
11 Juice of ½ lemon
12 Pinch of paprika
13 Salt, to taste
14 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Fries

15 2 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
16 Vegetable oil, for frying
17 Salt, to taste
18 Optional: garlic powder or grated parmesan, for garnish

Steps To Follow

Step 01

Soak the cut russet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and dry thoroughly with kitchen paper.

Step 02

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 175°C. Fry potatoes in batches for 3–5 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove to paper towels and season immediately with salt and, if desired, garlic powder or grated parmesan.

Step 03

Allow steak to come to room temperature. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 04

Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add olive oil, then place steak in pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until medium rare (internal temp approximately 54°C).

Step 05

During the final minute of searing, add butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary. Tilt pan and baste steak with foaming butter. Transfer steak to a board and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.

Step 06

Heat olive oil in a hot skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Finish with lemon juice.

Step 07

On a clean white plate, fan out the steak slices to display the pink center. Place sautéed shrimp beside or overlapping the steak. Pile freshly cooked fries on one side. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with garlic aioli or herb butter.

Notes and Tips

  1. Properly drying potatoes before frying ensures maximum crispness.
  2. Resting steak after cooking allows juices to redistribute and enhances tenderness.

Required Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
  • Kitchen paper towels
  • Tongs
  • Sharp carving knife

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp)
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Contains possible egg (if garlic aioli is served)

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 850
  • Fats: 47 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Proteins: 54 g