Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread
Highlighted under: World Table
I absolutely love the balance of flavors in this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread. Combining the rich depth of beef with the fresh zest of seafood creates a truly indulgent experience. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner. I appreciate how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels like a gourmet treat. The layers of flavor just come together beautifully, making it hard to stop at one serving. Trust me, this spread will become a highlight of your culinary repertoire!
When I first attempted this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread, I was amazed by how easy it was to elevate a classic dinner recipe into something truly spectacular. I experimented with both grilled steak and succulent shrimp, blending them into a creamy base that just works wonders. The flavors meld perfectly, and I learned that marinating the beef beforehand really enhances its tenderness.
One of my best tips is to use freshly chopped herbs in the mixture; they will brighten the overall taste, allowing each bite to shine through. The use of quality ingredients makes all the difference, and I find that sourcing local produce adds a personal touch that everyone will appreciate. Trust me, this spread will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The luxurious combination of beef and seafood creates a memorable flavor experience.
- Rich, creamy texture pairs perfectly with crunchy bread or crackers.
- Simple preparation makes it an ideal choice for entertaining guests.
Crafting the Perfect Texture
Achieving the right texture in this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread is crucial. The combination of cream cheese and sour cream provides a luscious base, while the beef and shrimp add delightful contrast. Make sure to soften the cream cheese thoroughly before mixing; this will help you avoid any lumps in your spread. Using a hand mixer can speed up the process, creating a silky-smooth consistency that’s easy to spread on crackers or bread.
Another aspect to consider is the cooking time for the steak and shrimp. You want both to be cooked just until tender, as overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. For the ribeye, aim for medium-rare, which allows the meat to remain juicy. Similarly, cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes. These careful cooking times ensure every bite is a perfect combination of creamy and savory.
Ingredient Substitutions
While this recipe highlights ribeye and shrimp, there are plenty of substitutions that can suit different dietary preferences or availability. For a lighter option, you can use grilled chicken in place of steak or even sautéed scallops instead of shrimp. Vegetarian versions can incorporate smoked tempeh or mushrooms, which can add a rich umami flavor without the meat. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors of your chosen substitute.
When it comes to the creamy base, if you're looking to reduce calories, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It will add a similar tang while making the spread lighter. Additionally, if you want to skip dairy entirely, consider a nut-based cream cheese alternative. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors while adapting the ingredients to suit your needs.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread is an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings. Prepare the spread up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allowing it to sit overnight helps the flavors meld, making it even more delicious when served. I often find that the taste becomes richer after a day in the fridge, enhancing that savory and creamy profile that everyone loves.
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure that it is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any other flavors from the fridge. Reheating is generally not recommended, as the texture can change, but you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften it slightly. This way, you’ll still enjoy the delightful spread without compromising its creamy texture.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this amazing spread.
For the Spread
- 8 oz ribeye steak, diced
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread.
Prepare the Steak and Shrimp
Season the diced ribeye steak with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the steak for about 5 minutes until browned but slightly rare. Remove and let rest. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.
Make the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Beat until smooth. Stir in chopped green onions, parsley, and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
Combine and Chill
Gently fold the cooked steak and shrimp into the cream cheese mixture. Transfer to a serving dish and cover. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Enjoy your delicious spread with your favorite crackers or vegetables!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or horseradish to the mixture!
Serving Suggestions
For a stunning presentation, consider serving the spread in a bread bowl or on a charcuterie board alongside an assortment of crackers and sliced baguette. Pair it with fresh vegetables like celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a refreshing crunch. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction on top can add an elegant finish that beautifully contrasts with the creamy spread.
If you're hosting a larger gathering, consider doubling the recipe; it scales up easily. Just ensure you mix the ingredients in a larger bowl. You can also serve it with a selection of dipping options to cater to various tastes, allowing your guests to explore different flavor combinations with each bite. Having an array of accompaniments makes for a fun and interactive experience.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you find that your spread is too thick and hard to spread, you can adjust the consistency by mixing in a teaspoon of milk or sour cream at a time until you reach your desired texture. This is often necessary if the cream cheese was still too firm when you started mixing. Remember to stir well, as even small additions can significantly change the spreadability of the mixture.
On the flip side, if you feel it's too loose, adding a touch more cream cheese or a small amount of grated parmesan can help thicken it up without altering the flavor too much. Just make sure to combine thoroughly so the added ingredients blend seamlessly into the existing mixture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this spread a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
→ What can I substitute for shrimp?
You can use crab meat or even cooked lobster for a more decadent version.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this spread?
Absolutely! You can substitute the meat with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread
I absolutely love the balance of flavors in this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread. Combining the rich depth of beef with the fresh zest of seafood creates a truly indulgent experience. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner. I appreciate how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels like a gourmet treat. The layers of flavor just come together beautifully, making it hard to stop at one serving. Trust me, this spread will become a highlight of your culinary repertoire!
What You'll Need
For the Spread
- 8 oz ribeye steak, diced
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Season the diced ribeye steak with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the steak for about 5 minutes until browned but slightly rare. Remove and let rest. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Beat until smooth. Stir in chopped green onions, parsley, and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
Gently fold the cooked steak and shrimp into the cream cheese mixture. Transfer to a serving dish and cover. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or horseradish to the mixture!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Sodium: 430mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 32g