Shrimp Scampi with Steak Bites

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Steak Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 pound steak bites (sirloin or ribeye); 4 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup white wine; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of shrimp and steak in this Shrimp Scampi with Steak Bites recipe. The rich, buttery garlic sauce perfectly complements the tender, juicy steak and succulent shrimp. It's a dish that feels fancy enough for a special occasion but is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. I guarantee that once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again for family gatherings or cozy date nights. Trust me, this is a meal that will impress without causing you to spend hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:34:27.401Z

When I first decided to combine shrimp and steak, I never anticipated the explosion of flavors that would come from such a simple idea. The iconic garlic butter sauce in shrimp scampi, combined with perfectly seared steak bites, created a delicious harmony on the plate. I fondly remember the first time I served it; my friends were blown away by the bold, savory flavors and the delightful juiciness of the proteins.

One key to making this dish a showstopper is to not overcrowd the pan when cooking. This ensures that both the shrimp and steak get that beautiful sear we all crave. I also like to finish with a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up even more. Trust me, it takes this dish to another level!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious combination of juicy steak and succulent shrimp
Rich, garlic buttery sauce that elevates the dish
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

      

The Magic of Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is what truly elevates this Shrimp Scampi with Steak Bites dish. The combination of butter and minced garlic creates a rich and fragrant base that complements both the shrimp and steak beautifully. When cooking the garlic, it’s crucial to keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly. Aim for a golden color and a fragrant aroma, about one minute over medium heat, to achieve that perfect balance without bitterness.

As the sauce simmers with the addition of white wine and lemon juice, the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. The acidity from the lemon not only brightens the sauce but also cuts the richness of the butter, balancing each bite perfectly. This sauce can be adjusted to your taste; consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild heat or a splash of seafood broth for a deeper flavor profile.

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp and Steak

Cooking the shrimp and steak properly is essential for the best texture and flavor. For the steak bites, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding them in. The heat should be medium-high to achieve a beautiful sear, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Under-searing can lead to a chewy texture, while over-searing can dry them out—look for a nice crust that gives way to tender juicy bites inside.

When it comes to the shrimp, their cooking time is short—typically 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be cautious not to overcrowd the skillet; doing so can cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful dish. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed and soaked in cool water to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking!

For the Shrimp Scampi and Steak Bites

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound steak bites (sirloin or ribeye)
4 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a flawless dish!

Sear the Steak Bites

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak bites with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes, or until browned.

Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Return the steak to the skillet and add white wine and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in the remaining butter and sprinkle with parsley. Serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi with Steak Bites!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp
they only need a few minutes to turn pink and tender. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though this is unlikely!), store the shrimp scampi and steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid toughening the shrimp or steak. Adding a splash of broth or water can help rehydrate the meal and make sure the sauce remains luscious.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, keeping in mind that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon thawing. To reheat from frozen, place the container in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before gently warming the dish on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of pasta or crusty bread, perfect for soaking up that incredible garlic butter sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of fresh greens or alongside roasted vegetables. The combination of flavors can also be enhanced with a side of lemon wedges for an extra citrusy kick at the table.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding seasonal vegetables to the skillet while cooking the shrimp, like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. They will absorb the sauce’s flavor, adding color and freshness to your meal. This can also be a delightful way to sneak in some extra nutrients!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking for the best texture.

→ What type of steak is best for this recipe?

Sirloin or ribeye steak works wonderfully for tenderness and flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the steak ahead of time.

→ What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi and Steak Bites?

It pairs well with garlic bread, pasta, or a fresh green salad.