Steak, Shrimp, and Veggie skillet

Looking for an easy yet impressive meal? This steak and shrimp skillet is a flavor-packed, keto-friendly recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes. With only 4 net carbs per serving, it’s the perfect choice for a healthy, low-carb dinner without sacrificing taste. Featuring tender steak tips, juicy shrimp, and a mix of fresh vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, and bell peppers, this dish is a complete meal that will quickly become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a quick meal prep option, it’s sure to be a hit.

Why Steak and Shrimp is a Winning Combo

Steak and shrimp, also known as Surf and Turf, is a combination that exudes luxury. The rich, meaty flavor of steak paired with the delicate sweetness of shrimp creates an irresistible contrast. Although many associate Surf and Turf with fancy restaurant dinners, this simple skillet recipe makes it achievable at home in under 30 minutes. Plus, by using a single pan, cleanup is minimal, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than scrubbing dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients required for this surf-and-turf keto dish. For exact quantities and instructions, continue reading for the full recipe.

• Steak Tips: You can use steak tips or 1-inch cubes of your favorite cut of steak. Ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin all work well.
• Shrimp: Use shrimp that have been peeled, deveined, and thawed.
• Vegetables: Fresh veggies like zucchini, asparagus, bell peppers, and onions provide both flavor and color to this dish.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the ingredients.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds a bit of heat and depth of flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it or use your favorite all-purpose seasoning blend.

These simple ingredients make for a nutrient-dense, low-carb meal packed with protein and vibrant vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing Your Ingredients

Before cooking, it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Start by cutting your steak into 1-inch cubes and peeling and deveining your shrimp if they aren’t already.

• Steak Tips: Aim for uniform cubes so the steak cooks evenly.
• Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed if frozen, and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture during cooking.
• Vegetables: Slice your zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and asparagus. The vegetables should be roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

2. Seasoning the Steak and Shrimp

Next, place the steak, shrimp, and vegetables into a large bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, making sure everything is evenly coated. Then, sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount of seasoning, as Cajun spice can be quite bold. For those who enjoy more heat, feel free to add extra seasoning to taste.

3. Cooking Your Surf and Turf

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You can use a cast iron skillet for extra depth of flavor, or a non-stick pan for convenience. If you have access to a Blackstone griddle, this recipe is perfect for outdoor grilling as well.

• Single-Layer Cooking: When adding the steak, shrimp, and veggies to the hot skillet, aim to arrange everything in a single layer for even cooking. This ensures that the meat sears properly, creating a delicious crust on the steak while keeping the shrimp juicy.
• Cooking Time: Allow the steak and vegetables to cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes. Then, stir everything and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink, and the vegetables should be tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Checking the Doneness of Your Steak

Steak doneness can be a personal preference, so use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. Here’s a quick guide to temperatures and doneness:

• Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
• Medium: 145°F (63°C)
• Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
• Well Done: 160°F (71°C)

For shrimp, you’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque, with the tails curling inward.

Tips for Perfect Steak and Shrimp

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you don’t have a large enough skillet, cook the steak and shrimp in batches. This prevents steaming and ensures a nice sear on the meat and veggies.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a bit of extra time, consider marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice adds a burst of flavor.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Cajun seasoning brings heat to the dish, but you can control it to match your taste preferences. For a milder option, use less Cajun spice or opt for an all-purpose seasoning. For more heat, consider adding extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.

Variations and Ingredient Substitutions

• Vegetables: While the recipe calls for zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and asparagus, feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies. Mushrooms, broccoli, or even cherry tomatoes make excellent additions.
• Shrimp Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try swapping it with another seafood option like scallops or even lobster for an extra luxurious take on this dish.
• Low-Carb Sides: To keep this meal low-carb, serve it with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad. If carbs aren’t a concern, it pairs beautifully with a warm, crusty bread.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well for up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• To Reheat: Reheat your steak and shrimp either in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the microwave, heat in 30-second increments until warmed through. On the stovetop, warm the skillet over medium heat and sauté for a few minutes. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheat, which will help maintain the crispiness of the vegetables.

Make It Ahead for Meal Prep

This steak and shrimp skillet is great for meal prepping. You can easily double or triple the recipe, storing the leftovers in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Steak, Shrimp, and Veggie skillet

This steak and shrimp skillet is an easy, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes. It’s a keto-friendly option with only 4 net carbs per serving. Follow the steps below to prepare this delicious Surf and Turf dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb steak tips or 1-inch cubes of your preferred steak
• 1 lb thawed shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups sliced zucchini
• 1 cup sliced asparagus
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• ½ cup chopped red onion
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning

Instructions:

1. Combine steak, shrimp, and veggies in a large bowl. Toss with olive oil and Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and spray with cooking oil.
3. Add the seasoned steak, shrimp, and vegetables to the skillet in a single layer.
4. Cook for 3 minutes without stirring, then toss and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the shrimp is pink and the vegetables are tender.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 321 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6.4g
• Protein: 39g
• Fat: 15.6g
• Cholesterol: 173mg
• Sodium: 1106mg
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Sugar: 3.1g