Surf and Turf Bites

When entertaining, it is important to have a variety of heavy and light hors d’oeuvres on the menu. I choose ones that do not take much time and are simple to make. In particular, I love remixing classic combinations, which is how these surf and turf bites joined my surf and turf board and my caviar board.

For this recipe, I used a ribeye steak; however, you can use your preferred cut of beef. If beef is not your favorite, replace it with chicken or salmon. With this in mind, it is as flexible as my pear and bleu cheese skewers and my mini fig and brie bites.

This recipe is super simple. You will surprise yourself and impress your guests. What’s more, I pair it with three dipping sauces: spicy mustard, cocktail sauce and creamy horseradish. As a result, it holds its own on a table of elevated New Year’s Eve appetizers next to cheesy shrimp and crab dip.

What Are Surf and Turf Bites?

In essence, they are a steakhouse classic in one bite. Seared ribeye is sliced into bite-sized pieces and skewered on toothpicks with sautéed shrimp, then served with dipping sauces.

Ingredients (With Purpose & Flavor Notes)

• Ribeye steak (1 pound, or your preferred cut). The turf.
• Raw 31/40 shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined, tail on). The surf. The numbers mean 31 to 40 shrimp per pound.
• Olive oil. For the shrimp and the skillet.
• Minced garlic (1 tablespoon, divided). Some seasons the shrimp; the rest goes in the pan.
• Sea salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. The seasoning.
• Garlic butter (1 stick). Melts over the resting steak.
• Toothpicks (1 package). For skewering.
• Optional garnishes. Spicy mustard, cocktail sauce, creamy horseradish and mint.

Everything I Love for This Recipe

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Cast Iron Skillet

For a deep sear on the steak.

Second Skillet

For the shrimp.

Tongs

For turning steak and shrimp.

Instant-Read Thermometer

Takes the guesswork out of doneness.

Chef’s Knife

For slicing the ribeye into bites.

Cutting Board

With a groove to catch the juices.

Mixing Bowl

For seasoning the shrimp.

Cocktail Picks

A dressier alternative to toothpicks.

Small Dipping Bowls

For the three sauces.

Round Serving Platter

For arranging the bites, as in my photos.

Cocktail Napkins

A must for finger food.

Butter Dish

For the garlic butter.

How To Make Surf and Turf Bites

Step 1: Rest the Steak

Take the ribeye out of the refrigerator and let it sit for 15 minutes before seasoning.

Step 2: Season the Steak

Heavily season the ribeye with sea salt and pepper, and set aside.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, lightly coat the shrimp with olive oil. Season with some of the garlic, sea salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Set a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and the remaining garlic.

Step 5: Cook the Steak

Cook the steak to your desired doneness. While it rests, top it with the garlic butter.

Step 6: Sauté the Shrimp

In another skillet, sauté the shrimp for about two minutes per side, until slightly opaque. Set aside.

Step 7: Slice

Slice the ribeye into bite-sized pieces.

Step 8: Skewer and Serve

On toothpicks, layer the shrimp and steak until you run out. Serve with spicy mustard, cocktail sauce and creamy horseradish for dipping.

KEEP HOSTING

More to make and share — elegant bites and party-ready appetizers.

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Bright, zesty shrimp tucked into fresh lettuce wraps.

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RECIPE

Pear and Bleu Cheese Appetizer Skewers with Arugula and Pecans

Skewers of pear, bleu cheese, arugula, and toasted pecans.

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Variations

Change the Cut

Use your preferred cut of beef.

Swap the Beef

Chicken or salmon can replace the steak.

Change the Sauces

Serve one, two or all three.

Make It a Board

Turn it into the surf and turf board linked above.

When I Love Serving Surf and Turf Bites

New Year’s Eve

Set the scene with my New Year’s Eve tablescape.

Holiday Parties

See how I host a holiday dinner party.

Cocktail Hour

Furthermore, they pair with a martini board.

Date Night In

Steakhouse flavor at home.

Game Day

Equally important, they are easy to eat standing up.

Anniversary Dinners

A special starter.

What To Serve With Them

A Board

A smoked salmon charcuterie board or a cheese platter.

Another Seafood Bite

Easy crab toast with lemon mayo, catfish and grits shooters or cilantro lime shrimp lettuce wraps.

A Dip

Creamy spinach dip.

A Drink

The peartini or lemonade prosecco punch.

Shelf Life & Storage Tips

• Serve warm. Skewer and serve soon after cooking.
• Prep ahead. Season the steak and shrimp before guests arrive and cook just before serving.
• Leftovers. Refrigerate in a covered container.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of steak should I use?

I used ribeye; your preferred cut works.

What size shrimp?

31/40 shrimp, which means 31 to 40 per pound.

How long do the shrimp cook?

About two minutes per side, until slightly opaque.

What sauces go with them?

Spicy mustard, cocktail sauce and creamy horseradish.

Can I use something other than beef?

Yes. Chicken or salmon can replace it.

Final Thoughts

All things considered, this is one of those appetizers that looks far more complicated than it is. Without a doubt, your guests will be impressed. Serve and enjoy!

SAVE NOW, MAKE LATER!