Seared Steak and Scallops with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans – A Gourmet Surf-and-Turf Delight! 🥩🦪🥔

Looking for a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make at home? This Seared Steak and Scallops with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans is the ultimate surf-and-turf experience, combining the rich, savory flavors of perfectly seared steak with the delicate sweetness of scallops. Paired with crispy roasted baby potatoes and tender, garlicky green beans, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner, celebrating a milestone, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe will impress with its balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into this gourmet meal and learn how to bring it to life in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Surf-and-Turf Recipe
This dish is a celebration of contrasts: the hearty, robust flavor of a seared steak meets the delicate, buttery sweetness of scallops, creating a perfect harmony of land and sea. The roasted baby potatoes add a comforting, crispy element, while the green beans bring freshness and a pop of color to the plate. It’s a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent yet balanced, offering protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense vegetables. Plus, it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it accessible for home cooks who want to elevate their dinner game. Get ready to impress your family, friends, or even yourself with this stunning dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need 🍽️
Here’s what you’ll need to create this gourmet masterpiece:
For the Steak and Scallops:
- 1 ribeye or sirloin steak (about 12 oz, 1-inch thick) – A well-marbled cut ensures a juicy, flavorful result.
- 6 large sea scallops, patted dry – Fresh or frozen (thawed) scallops work well; just ensure they’re dry for a good sear.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided – For searing the steak and scallops.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided – Adds richness and helps with basting.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings for both the steak and scallops.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle savory boost on the steak.
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional) – For aromatic basting of the steak.
For the Roasted Baby Potatoes:
- 1 lb baby potatoes (mix of yellow and red), halved – These small potatoes roast beautifully and have a creamy interior.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth to the potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For a fresh, colorful garnish.
For the Sautéed Green Beans:
- 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed – Look for bright, firm beans for the best texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing.
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – For a punch of savory goodness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To season the beans.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional) – For a bright, citrusy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create a stunning surf-and-turf meal:
- Roast the Baby Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley (if using) and set aside, keeping warm.
- Prepare the Steak: Remove the steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature—this ensures even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add the steak and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F/57°C internal temperature), or adjust to your preferred doneness. During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon butter and a sprig of thyme to the pan, tilting it slightly to spoon the melted butter over the steak for extra flavor. Remove the steak, tent with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute the juices.
- Sear the Scallops: While the steak rests, prepare the scallops. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of a good sear! Season both sides with salt and pepper. In the same skillet used for the steak (wipe it out if there’s too much residue), heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms and the centers are slightly translucent. Add 1 tablespoon butter during the last minute, basting the scallops as they finish cooking. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Green Beans: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallot and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the green beans, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re crisp-tender and slightly charred. Finish with a pinch of lemon zest (if using) for a bright, fresh note.
- Assemble & Serve: Slice the rested steak against the grain into thick strips. On a large plate, arrange the sliced steak, seared scallops, roasted baby potatoes, and sautéed green beans in an appealing manner. The vibrant colors—golden scallops, charred steak, bright green beans, and crispy potatoes—make this dish a feast for the eyes. Serve immediately, with an optional drizzle of pan juices or a squeeze of lemon over the scallops for extra zing.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Nutritional Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories: ~600 per serving
- Protein: ~45g per serving
This meal is a hearty, protein-packed option with a good balance of healthy fats and carbs, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Tips for a Perfect Surf-and-Turf Dinner
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. Medium-rare (135°F/57°C) is ideal for tenderness, but adjust as needed.
- Scallop Searing: Dry scallops thoroughly and avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve a perfect golden crust. Don’t move them while searing to let the crust form.
- Potato Crispiness: Parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes before roasting to ensure a fluffy interior and extra-crispy exterior.
- Green Bean Texture: Don’t overcook the green beans—they should retain a slight crunch for the best texture and flavor.
- Timing Tip: Start with the potatoes since they take the longest, then cook the steak, scallops, and green beans in sequence to ensure everything is hot when served.
Variations to Customize Your Meal
This recipe is highly adaptable! Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Herb Butter Finish: Make a quick herb butter with garlic, parsley, and lemon zest to dollop on the steak and scallops for extra richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the potatoes or green beans for a subtle heat.
- Different Veggies: Swap the green beans for asparagus, broccolini, or sautéed spinach for variety.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you prefer a creamier side, mash the roasted potatoes with butter, cream, and roasted garlic.
- Sauce Addition: Serve with a side of chimichurri, garlic aioli, or a red wine reduction for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
This surf-and-turf meal is a nutritional powerhouse! The steak and scallops provide high-quality protein and healthy fats, including omega-3s from the scallops, which support heart health. The baby potatoes offer complex carbs and fiber, while the green beans add vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal that’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for low-carb diets by reducing the potato portion or swapping with a lighter veggie like zucchini. For a lighter option, use less butter and oil during cooking.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is a complete meal, but you can elevate the experience with thoughtful pairings. Serve with a glass of bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the steak, or a crisp white, like a Chardonnay, to pair with the scallops. A side of crusty bread or a light Caesar salad can round out the meal. For dessert, a refreshing option like a lemon tart or berries with whipped cream will provide a sweet contrast without being too heavy.
Why This Meal is Perfect for Special Occasions
This Seared Steak and Scallops with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans is ideal for date nights, celebrations, or any time you want to treat yourself to something special. The combination of premium ingredients like steak and scallops makes it feel luxurious, while the simple preparation keeps it approachable. The presentation is stunning—golden scallops, juicy steak, vibrant green beans, and crispy potatoes make for a plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress your guests or make a weeknight feel extraordinary.
Final Thoughts
This Seared Steak and Scallops with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans recipe is a testament to the magic of combining simple ingredients with thoughtful cooking techniques. The tender steak, succulent scallops, crispy potatoes, and fresh green beans come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and gourmet. It’s a dish that celebrates the best of surf and turf, offering a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. So, fire up your skillet, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dinner that’s as memorable as it is delicious!
Have you tried a surf-and-turf combo before? What’s your favorite way to prepare steak or scallops? Share your thoughts, tips, or variations in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next special dinner and follow us for more mouthwatering ideas.