Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza
Highlighted under: World Cuisine
I absolutely love combining flavors, and this Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza is a perfect example of that. The earthy taste of the steak melds beautifully with the succulent shrimp, and when paired with fresh herbs and a creamy sauce, it becomes a bite of paradise. This recipe is relatively simple yet incredibly impressive, making it the ideal dish for gatherings or date nights. I can’t wait to share this delightful fusion of land and sea with you—it’s a tasty twist that you’ll definitely want to try!
When I first conceptualized this Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza, I thought about how perfect crusty flatbread would be as a base for all the delightful seafood and meat. I experimented with different types of sauces and toppings, but nothing excited my taste buds quite like a creamy garlic sauce topped with vibrant herbs. This combination truly brings out the rich flavors of both steak and shrimp, offering a luxurious experience with every bite.
One tip I discovered while perfecting this recipe is to make sure your steak is seared to just the right level of doneness before assembling the pizza. This ensures the meat remains juicy and tender, perfectly complementary to the succulent shrimp. I also love to finish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for that extra burst of flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A delicious balance of savory steak and sweet shrimp
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
- Unique twist on traditional pizza that impresses everyone
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of steak and shrimp brings a unique depth of flavor to this flatbread pizza. The steak's rich, earthy profile contrasts beautifully with the shrimp's natural sweetness, creating an interplay that is both exciting and satisfying. Experimenting with seasonings can elevate these flavors even further; consider a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for a little heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce.
Herbs play a crucial role in this recipe, not just for garnish but for elevating the overall taste. Fresh parsley is a great choice, but you could also use cilantro or even a hint of basil for a different flavor profile. Adding the herbs just after baking ensures they maintain their fresh flavor and vibrant green color, creating a visually appealing and aromatic dish.
Techniques to Perfect Your Pizza
Grilling the steak and shrimp adds a layer of smokiness that oven-cooked seafood and meat often lack. Ensure your grill or skillet is properly preheated to achieve those beautiful grill marks and to enhance the flavor. For the steak, a medium-high heat is ideal to sear quickly while keeping the inside juicy. Similarly, shrimp should cook just until they are opaque and firm, typically around 2-3 minutes per side; watch closely to prevent overcooking.
When assembling your flatbread pizzas, spread the creamy garlic sauce evenly to prevent sogginess. A thicker layer of sauce may lead to a soggy crust, while an even spread ensures a crispier end product. If you're concerned about the flatbread being too soft, consider toasting it lightly before adding your toppings to create a sturdier base.
Ingredients
For the flatbread pizza
- 2 flatbreads
- 8 oz steak (sirloin or ribeye), grilled and sliced
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup creamy garlic sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high heat. Season the steak and shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness, and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Assemble the Pizza
Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Spread the creamy garlic sauce evenly over each flatbread. Layer the sliced steak and grilled shrimp over the sauce, followed by the mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the flatbreads in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the flatbreads are crispy.
Once baked, let the pizza cool for a minute before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced jalapeños or banana peppers on top before baking.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to make this recipe lighter, you can substitute the steak with grilled chicken or even a plant-based protein like tempeh. These options will alter the flavor profile but can still provide satisfying meals when paired with shrimp. Similar substitutions can apply to shrimp; scallops or chunks of firm white fish would work wonderfully in this recipe.
For the sauce, if you’re short on time, store-bought creamy garlic sauces can be used, though making your own allows you to customize the flavors. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, consider using cashew cream blended with garlic and lemon juice for a rich, creamy alternative that still captures that garlicky essence.
Make-Ahead Tips
This pizza is delightful fresh but can be prepped ahead of time for quicker assembly. You can grill the steak and shrimp earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator, which helps the flavors meld. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before placing them on the flatbreads, as this promotes even cooking during final baking.
If you're planning to serve this dish at a gathering, consider assembling the flatbreads (without baking them) and covering them tightly with plastic wrap. They can sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before baking. This allows your guests to enjoy a freshly baked pizza without extensive kitchen time when entertaining.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! Scallops or clams would be delicious alternatives.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce or top with spicy sausage.
→ Can I prepare the steak and shrimp in advance?
Yes, you can grill them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator to assemble later.
→ What can I serve with this flatbread pizza?
It pairs well with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza
I absolutely love combining flavors, and this Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza is a perfect example of that. The earthy taste of the steak melds beautifully with the succulent shrimp, and when paired with fresh herbs and a creamy sauce, it becomes a bite of paradise. This recipe is relatively simple yet incredibly impressive, making it the ideal dish for gatherings or date nights. I can’t wait to share this delightful fusion of land and sea with you—it’s a tasty twist that you’ll definitely want to try!
What You'll Need
For the flatbread pizza
- 2 flatbreads
- 8 oz steak (sirloin or ribeye), grilled and sliced
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup creamy garlic sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high heat. Season the steak and shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness, and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Spread the creamy garlic sauce evenly over each flatbread. Layer the sliced steak and grilled shrimp over the sauce, followed by the mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the flatbreads in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the flatbreads are crispy.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced jalapeños or banana peppers on top before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 730mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g