Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan is a delicious blend of tender steak and succulent shrimp topped with rich Parmesan cheese and savory seasonings. This dish perfectly balances bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it a favorite for those who love surf and turf with a cheesy twist.
Recreating this restaurant-style meal at home lets us enjoy a gourmet experience without the wait. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can bring that signature Applebee’s taste right to our dinner table. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Let’s dive into making this irresistible Steak and Shrimp Parmesan that’s sure to impress family and friends while satisfying our cravings for a hearty, cheesy meal.
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan, we need to gather fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in capturing the authentic taste of this surf and turf classic.
Steak Ingredients
We prefer to use tender cuts for the best texture and flavor. Here’s what we need:
- 8 oz sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into 1-inch strips
- Salt — 1 teaspoon, divided
- Black pepper — 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Olive oil — 2 tablespoons, for searing
Shrimp Ingredients
The shrimp must be perfectly cooked to complement the steak’s richness:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
- Garlic powder — 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika — 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt — 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper — a pinch
- Olive oil — 1 tablespoon, for sautéing
Parmesan Sauce Ingredients
The creamy Parmesan sauce ties this dish together with its cheesy depth:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Dried Italian herbs | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Additional Ingredients
To complete our Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan, we add these staples:
- Fresh parsley, chopped — 2 tablespoons for garnish
- Lemon wedges — for squeezing over shrimp
- Cooked fettuccine pasta — 8 oz, optional for serving
With these ingredients assembled, we’re ready to start cooking this delicious Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan at home and savor every bite.
Equipment Needed
To master the Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan recipe, having the right equipment is essential for perfect results. Here is what we need to prepare and cook this delicious surf and turf dish with ease and precision.
Essential Cookware and Tools
- Skillet or Sauté Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably non-stick or cast iron, for searing the steak and sautéing shrimp to a perfect golden brown.
- Medium Saucepan: For preparing the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly without burning.
- Tongs: To handle the steak and shrimp safely while turning without piercing the meat, preserving juices.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife to trim and slice the sirloin steak cleanly and peel or devein shrimp if needed.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, clean surface for prepping all ingredients safely.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mixing Bowl: To toss pasta or mix ingredients if necessary during preparation.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the creamy Parmesan sauce smoothly without scratching cookware.
- Plate or Resting Board: To rest the steak after cooking, allowing juices to redistribute for tenderness.
Additional Helpful Equipment
- Meat Thermometer: Optional but useful to check the steak’s internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Colander: To drain cooked pasta efficiently before serving.
- Grater: If using fresh Parmesan, a fine grater ensures the cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skillet / Sauté Pan | Searing steak and shrimp | Cast iron preferred |
| Medium Saucepan | Making Parmesan sauce | Medium heat control needed |
| Tongs | Turning steak and shrimp | Avoids piercing meat |
| Chef’s Knife | Trimming and slicing steak and shrimp prep | Sharp blade essential |
| Cutting Board | Food prepping | Clean and sturdy |
| Measuring Tools | Accurate ingredient portions | Cups and spoons |
| Mixing Bowl | Tossing or mixing ingredients | Medium size |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Stirring sauce | Non-metal recommended for non-stick pans |
| Plate / Resting Board | Resting steak after cooking | Helps maintain juices |
| Meat Thermometer | Checking steak doneness | Optional |
| Colander | Draining pasta | Quick and easy draining |
| Grater | Fresh Parmesan cheese preparation | Fine grate |
Having this equipment ready and organized before cooking will make the process smooth and enjoyable, helping us recreate the authentic Applebee’s experience right in our kitchens.
Prep Work
Before we bring together the Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan masterpiece, it’s essential to prepare each component carefully. Precise prep work ensures every element shines with the perfect texture and flavor.
Preparing the Steak
- Choose an 8 oz sirloin steak with good marbling for tenderness and flavor.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is critical for a perfect sear.
- Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking. This allows even cooking throughout.
“A well-prepared steak is the foundation of our surf and turf delight.”
Preparing the Shrimp
- Use 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, leaving the tails on for presentation.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly.
- Lightly season the shrimp with salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Set aside for quick cooking later, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming.
Making the Parmesan Sauce
To create that signature rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, follow these steps:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Melted |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Finely minced |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Room temperature |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup | Freshly grated |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tablespoon | Chopped (for garnish) |
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—avoid browning.
- Slowly whisk in heavy cream, bringing it just to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Keep the sauce warm over low heat until serving.
Cooking Directions
Let’s bring together the flavors of Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan by cooking each component with precision. Follow these steps carefully for a delicious and perfectly balanced surf and turf meal.
Cooking the Steak
- Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it is very hot.
- Pat dry the 8 oz sirloin steak with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat.
- Carefully place the steak in the skillet. Avoid moving it for about 3 to 4 minutes to develop a rich crust.
- Flip the steak and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes for medium-rare, or increase time for desired doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125 |
| Medium Rare | 135 |
| Medium | 145 |
| Medium Well | 150 |
| Well Done | 160+ |
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a plate tented with foil for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Rinse 12 large shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly.
- Lightly season the shrimp with salt and a pinch of paprika for flavor and color.
- In the same skillet used for steak, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer, avoiding crowding the pan.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until pink and slightly golden.
- Flip shrimp and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until opaque and firm.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Combining Steak and Shrimp with Parmesan Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low. In the skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Slice the rested steak into thin strips.
- To serve, arrange steak strips and shrimp on a plate or over cooked fettuccine pasta.
- Generously spoon the rich Parmesan sauce over the steak and shrimp.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh aroma.
Our Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan is now ready to impress with its perfect balance of tender meat, succulent shrimp, and a creamy cheesy sauce.
Assembling the Dish
To assemble our Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan, we will layer each component thoughtfully for maximum flavor and presentation.
- Start with a bed of cooked fettuccine on each serving plate. The pasta provides a rich base that soaks up the luscious Parmesan sauce.
- Slice the rested sirloin steak into thin strips against the grain. This keeps the meat tender and easy to enjoy.
- Arrange the steak slices over the pasta evenly to showcase the juicy sear and tender interior.
- Place the sautéed shrimp on top of the steak. Their golden-pink hue and slight char add vibrant contrast both visually and flavor-wise.
- Ladle the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the steak, shrimp, and pasta. This step ties all components together with its rich, cheesy texture.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
Here is a step-by-step assembly guide summarized in the table below:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lay cooked fettuccine on plate | Base layer to absorb sauce |
| 2 | Slice steak thinly against grain | Tenderness and easy eating |
| 3 | Arrange steak over pasta | Visual appeal and flavor balance |
| 4 | Top with sautéed shrimp | Adds texture and color |
| 5 | Pour Parmesan sauce over all | Unites flavors with creamy richness |
| 6 | Garnish with parsley | Enhances aroma and presentation |
“The key to this dish lies in the seamless integration of steak, shrimp, and Parmesan sauce—each layer builds upon the last to create a dinner that is both indulgent and balanced.“
When plating, ensure the sauce covers the proteins slightly but does not drown the pasta. This keeps each bite flavorful without becoming too heavy.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan, we recommend thoughtful pairing and presentation that enhances both the flavors and the overall dining experience.
Ideal Side Dishes
Complement this rich surf and turf with sides that balance its creamy, savory notes:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, they absorb the Parmesan sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Asparagus or Broccoli: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and vibrant color contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing counterpoint.
Beverage Pairings
Our flavors call for drinks that amplify richness or cleanse the palate:
| Beverage Type | Recommendation | Pairing Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Red Wine | Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot | Bold fruit flavors balance steak |
| White Wine | Chardonnay | Complements creamy Parmesan sauce |
| Beer | Amber Ale | Malty notes enhance shrimp’s sweetness |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling Water with Lemon | Cleanses the palate after richness |
Presentation Tips
Serve the dish on a warm plate to maintain temperature. Arrange sliced steak evenly over the bed of fettuccine, place shrimp on top, then ladle the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the entire dish. Finish with a vibrant sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for aromatic appeal.
“Presentation is the first bite we savor; the inviting look of our Steak and Shrimp Parmesan elevates anticipation and enjoyment.“
Garnishing Ideas
- Fresh parsley or basil finely chopped for aroma
- A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon zest for a subtle citrus twist that brightens the dish
By following these Serving Suggestions we ensure each plate of our Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan delights the senses from sight to last bite.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the full richness of Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan while saving time, we recommend preparing key components ahead of time. Here are our top tips for make-ahead success without compromising flavor or texture.
Steak Preparation
- Season and rest: Season the sirloin steak with salt and pepper as instructed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the seasoning to penetrate deeply.
- Par-cook option: For faster dinner assembly, sear the steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until medium-rare. Let it cool, then wrap and chill. Finish cooking it briefly before serving to maintain juiciness.
Shrimp Prep
- Clean and dry: Peel, devein, and rinse the shrimp. Pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
- Store properly: Place shrimp in an airtight container, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Season lightly just before cooking to maintain freshness.
Parmesan Sauce
- Make ahead: Prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce in advance and store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently: To reheat, warm the sauce over low heat while stirring frequently to maintain its smooth texture without separating.
Pasta
- Cook in advance: Boil the fettuccine al dente, drain, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Storage: Transfer pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat by briefly tossing it in a hot skillet with a splash of water.
Make-Ahead Schedule Summary
| Component | Preparation Timing | Storage Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steak | Season 24 hrs ahead or par-cook up to 24 hrs | Refrigerate up to 24 hours | Briefly re-sear before serving |
| Shrimp | Clean, dry, and store up to 12 hrs | Refrigerate up to 12 hours | Season and sauté fresh |
| Parmesan Sauce | Prepare up to 3 days ahead | Refrigerate up to 3 days | Warm gently over low heat |
| Pasta | Cook and oil to prevent sticking | Refrigerate up to 2 days | Toss in hot skillet with water |
Final Assembly Tip
For the freshest flavor, assemble the dish just before serving. This ensures the steak and shrimp retain their optimal texture, and the sauce stays creamy and luscious.
Conclusion
Bringing Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan to your kitchen is a rewarding way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal anytime. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, we can create a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
This recipe not only satisfies cravings for surf and turf but also offers the flexibility to tailor flavors and presentation to our liking. Whether for a special night or a cozy dinner, it’s a fantastic way to impress without the hassle.
With the right preparation and attention to detail, we can serve a memorable meal that delights every palate and elevates our home dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan at home?
You’ll need 8 oz sirloin steak, 12 large shrimp, butter, garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and cooked fettuccine pasta. These simple ingredients combine to create the dish’s rich flavor.
What equipment is essential for cooking this dish perfectly?
A heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan for searing, a medium saucepan for the sauce, and tongs for handling steak and shrimp are essential. Optional tools include a meat thermometer, colander, and grater for best results.
How should I prepare the steak and shrimp before cooking?
Choose well-marbled sirloin, season it well, and let it rest to ensure even cooking. Rinse, dry, and lightly season the shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
What is the best way to cook the steak and shrimp for this recipe?
Sear the steak in a hot skillet to your preferred doneness, using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Cook the shrimp in the same skillet until they turn pink and firm.
How do I make the creamy Parmesan sauce?
Sauté garlic in butter, then add heavy cream and whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
What’s the proper way to assemble Applebee’s Steak and Shrimp Parmesan?
Start with cooked fettuccine as a base, layer thinly sliced steak, top with sautéed shrimp, pour the Parmesan sauce over, and finish with fresh parsley for garnish.
What side dishes and drinks pair well with this meal?
Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus or broccoli, and Caesar salad complement the dish. Pair with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, amber ale, or sparkling water with lemon.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes. You can season and rest the steak up to 24 hours ahead, make the Parmesan sauce up to three days in advance, and cook fettuccine up to two days early. Assemble right before serving for freshness.
How do I ensure the best presentation of the dish?
Serve on a warm plate, arrange ingredients neatly, and garnish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or lemon zest for an attractive, restaurant-quality look.