Grilled Shrimp and Filet Mignon

Name: Grilled Shrimp and Filet Mignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 ounces each); Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Highlighted under: The Family Table Recipes

When I think about impressing guests at dinner parties, grilled shrimp and filet mignon always come to mind. The combination of tender, juicy steak paired with succulent shrimp bathed in a light marinade creates a flavor sensation that is hard to resist. This dish is not only visually stunning, but it also showcases the beauty of grilling. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious meal at home, this recipe is guaranteed to elevate your dining experience.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:06:30.290Z

What I love about grilling shrimp and filet mignon together is the wonderful harmony of flavors and textures they create. I remember the first time I marinated the shrimp with garlic and herbs – the aroma wafted through the kitchen and excited our taste buds even before we sat down to eat. The key is to not overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes on the grill to become juicy and full of flavor.

As I plated the dish, the vibrant color of the shrimp against the perfectly seared filet was breathtaking. I’ve found that letting the steak rest after grilling enhances its juiciness. Pair it with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that even the most discerning palate will appreciate. Once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly grilled shrimp with a zesty marinade
Tender filet mignon cooked to your preferred doneness
An impressive dish for special occasions or date nights

      

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade for the shrimp is a crucial component that infuses the seafood with flavor. Utilizing fresh garlic and lemon juice not only brightens the dish but also helps in tenderizing the shrimp. Make sure to whisk the marinade until fully combined; a homogenous mixture ensures every shrimp gets an even coating of the flavorful ingredients. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mix, which can elevate the dish even further.

For the best results, choose high-quality olive oil; its fruity notes can enhance the overall taste. It's also important to reserve half of the marinade before adding the shrimp, as this will be used for brushing during the grilling process. This technique allows for continuous flavor enhancement without running the risk of cross-contamination.

Grilling Techniques

When it comes to grilling shrimp, you want to ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high, roughly 400°F to 450°F. This temperature range guarantees that the shrimp cook quickly and evenly, preventing them from becoming rubbery. Look for a shimmering appearance on the grill grates and an aroma of heated oil to confirm it's ready for grilling. Using skewers can help keep them from falling through the grates; consider soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

For the filet mignon, achieving the perfect doneness is key. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. After grilling, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes; this allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. I recommend slicing against the grain for an optimal texture, enhancing the pleasant mouthfeel of the beef.

Serving Suggestions

When plating the grilled shrimp and filet mignon, consider pairing them with seasonal sides like grilled asparagus or a light, tangy salad to balance the richness of the meat. A drizzle of extra lemon juice can brighten the dish even further and prepare your tastebuds for the rich flavors as you dig in. If you want to impress at dinner parties, a simple garlic butter sauce served alongside can also add an elegant touch.

For leftovers, store the grilled shrimp and filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can easily be reheated in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave until just warmed through, avoiding overcooking, which can lead to dryness. Another delicious option is to chop the leftovers and toss them into a fresh pasta dish or a zesty stir-fry for a delightful twist.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp and Filet Mignon

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 ounces each)
Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Make sure to prepare your grill and let the shrimp and filet mignon come to room temperature before grilling.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious grilled meal.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reserve half the marinade for brushing while grilling.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.

Season the Filet Mignon

Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper, then brush with the remaining marinade.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it's well-oiled to prevent sticking.

Grill the Seafood

Add the shrimp to the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Grill the Filet Mignon

Place the filet mignon on the grill and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the time according to your preference.

Let the Meat Rest

Remove the filet mignon from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Serve

Plate the grilled shrimp and filet mignon, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your grilled shrimp and filet mignon while they are hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of your favorite white wine to the marinade.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing fresh, high-quality shrimp is vital for this recipe, as they are the star of the dish. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight ocean scent, not a strong fishy smell. If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp; they often have better flavor and texture than farmed varieties. You can also substitute shrimp with scallops or even chicken breast for a different but equally impressive protein option.

Filet mignon, known for its tenderness, significantly benefits from a simple seasoning of salt and pepper. However, if you're looking to elevate the flavor further, consider a steak rub with herbs like rosemary or thyme. Remember, the key to a juicy steak is not only the quality of the cut but also the resting period after grilling, which allows the juices to settle.

Marinating and Storage Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can marinate the shrimp up to one hour in advance to deepen the flavors. Just keep in mind that marinating too long can lead to a mushy texture due to the acidity in the marinade. For outstanding results, I suggest sticking to the 15-minute marinating time for the shrimp. The filet mignon can also benefit from marinating, so feel free to use the same mixture for a more cohesive flavor profile.

For those interested in meal prep, grilled shrimp and filet mignon can be made in batches. Both can be refrigerated and served later; however, to maintain texture, avoid microwaving directly. Instead, reheat on a skillet or a grill pan to recapture that grilled flavor and aroma. Remember to add a touch of oil or melted butter while reheating to prevent sticking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before marinating.

→ What is the best way to tell if the filet mignon is cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer; 130-135°F is medium-rare, while 140-145°F is medium.

→ How can I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Ensure your grill is well-oiled and preheated before adding the shrimp.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic mashed potatoes are great options.