Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce

Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce is a luxurious and indulgent dish that combines the tender, juicy flavor of filet mignon with the rich, creamy seafood goodness of shrimp and lobster. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The combination of surf and turf brings a balance of bold flavors with the succulent texture of shrimp and lobster cream sauce, making it a restaurant-quality dish you can easily prepare at home.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-ounce) filet mignon steaks
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 ounces lobster meat, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Preparation:

Step 1: Season the Steaks

• Take your filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to ensure even cooking. Season each steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Filet Mignon

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steaks to the skillet.
• Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. If you prefer your steaks to be cooked to a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly (6-7 minutes for medium, or 8 minutes for medium-well).
• After searing, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover them with aluminum foil to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the finely chopped shallots. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until softened, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp and Lobster

• Add the shrimp and chopped lobster meat to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp and lobster turn opaque and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as seafood can become tough if cooked too long.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

• Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add an extra depth of flavor to the sauce.

Step 6: Add Cream and Herbs

• Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the fresh thyme leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent the cream from curdling.

Step 7: Finish with Butter

• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. The butter will melt into the sauce, giving it a glossy, rich texture. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary.

Step 8: Serve

• Place the seared filet mignon steaks on plates and spoon the shrimp and lobster cream sauce generously over each steak. Serve immediately.

Cooking Note:

• For the best results, make sure the filet mignon steaks are at room temperature before cooking. This allows them to cook evenly and achieve the perfect sear.
• You can adjust the thickness of the cream sauce by letting it simmer a bit longer if you prefer a thicker consistency, or add a splash more chicken broth if you’d like it to be thinner.

Serving Suggestions:

• This rich and decadent dish pairs well with simple side dishes that won’t compete with the bold flavors of the filet mignon and seafood sauce. Consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or roasted vegetables. A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette could also complement the creamy sauce and balance the dish.

Tips:

• Resting the Steak: After cooking, always let your steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite.
• Seafood Prep: To save time, you can buy pre-cooked lobster meat. However, for the freshest flavor, cook your lobster and shrimp yourself.
• Herbs: While thyme adds a nice earthy note to the dish, you can substitute it with other herbs like tarragon or parsley, depending on your taste preference.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 690 Kcal per serving
• Protein: 45g per serving
• Sodium: 620mg per serving (depending on the seasoning and stock used)

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp and lobster?

• A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and lobster. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and to avoid adding extra water to the sauce.

Q: What is the best way to ensure the filet mignon is cooked to the right temperature?

• A: The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 135°F, for medium, aim for 145°F, and for well-done, it should be 160°F or higher.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

• A: The seafood cream sauce is best made fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and lobster in advance and reheat them in the sauce before serving. Just be careful not to overcook the seafood when reheating.

Q: What other cuts of steak can I use?

• A: If filet mignon is not available, you can substitute with ribeye or New York strip, though the texture will be slightly different.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

• A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth if you have any concerns about cross-contamination.

Conclusion:

Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce is a show-stopping dish that elevates any dinner. The combination of rich, tender beef with creamy, buttery seafood sauce makes it a perfect meal for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this elegant dish in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a celebratory gathering, this surf and turf recipe will surely leave everyone asking for more.

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