Craving a fancy dinner without the hassle of a reservation? Well, look no further! Combining a tender, juicy filet mignon with succulent jumbo prawns is the ultimate way to turn any night into a celebration. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, impressing guests, or just want to upgrade your weekend meal, this surf and turf combo checks all the boxes.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything from choosing top-quality cuts and shellfish, to grilling like a pro, serving it beautifully, and pairing it with sides that make the whole plate sing. And yep, it’s all broken down into digestible parts. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredient Guide for the Perfect Filet Mignon & Jumbo Prawn
If you want your surf and turf to truly impress, it all starts with what you bring home from the store. Choosing the right filet mignon cut and the freshest jumbo prawns makes a world of difference. Let’s break it down.
Choosing the Best Filet Mignon Cuts
Filet mignon is often dubbed the “king of steaks” — and for good reason. It’s ultra-tender, lean, and buttery soft when cooked right. But not all cuts are created equal.
What to Look for in Filet Mignon
- Thickness: Aim for steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick. Thinner cuts dry out too fast on the grill.
- Marbling: Even though filet is a lean cut, a bit of fine fat marbling adds essential flavor.
- Color: Fresh filet mignon should have a rich, reddish-pink color and a firm texture.
Grass-Fed vs Grain-Fed Filet Mignon
Both are great, but the flavor and texture differ:
- Grass-fed beef is leaner, with a slightly earthier taste — ideal if you’re eating clean.
- Grain-fed beef is often juicier and more buttery, which complements the prawns’ sweetness beautifully.
Selecting High-Quality Jumbo Prawns
Now let’s talk seafood. Jumbo prawns add the “surf” to your plate and bring a sweet, briny punch to balance the richness of filet mignon.
Fresh vs Frozen Prawns
- Fresh prawns should smell like the sea — not fishy. Look for firm, translucent flesh.
- Frozen jumbo prawns are totally fine too — just make sure they’re wild-caught and deveined. Thaw them slowly in the fridge for the best texture.
Cleaning and Prepping Tips
- Keep the tails on for presentation.
- Remove the vein by making a shallow cut down the back and pulling it out gently.
- Pat the prawns dry before seasoning — moisture can stop them from grilling properly.
Essential Marinades & Seasonings
Sure, filet mignon and jumbo prawns taste great on their own, but the right seasoning elevates everything.
Filet Mignon Marinade
- Olive oil
- Fresh rosemary
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic salt
- Cracked black pepper
Gently rub everything into the meat and let it marinate for at least an hour in the fridge.
Jumbo Prawn Seasoning
- Lemon thyme
- Chopped chives
- Fresh minced garlic
- Olive oil
- Sea salt and pepper
Let the prawns soak up these fresh flavors for 20–30 minutes before grilling.
Don’t Forget These Optional Add-Ons
Want to make your plate Instagram-worthy? Toss these into your prep:
- Lemon wedges (brighten up the prawns)
- Fresh parsley (adds color and aroma)
- Compound butter (place a slice on your filet for extra richness)
Coming up next, we’re turning up the heat — literally. Let’s dive into the best grilling techniques for getting that perfect sear on both steak and prawns.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Filet Mignon & Jumbo Prawn
Cooking a stunning surf and turf meal at home might seem intimidating, but with the right steps, it’s surprisingly simple. Here’s a foolproof, juicy guide to grilling both filet mignon and jumbo prawns — packed with pro tips for searing, seasoning, and serving like a chef.
How to Cook the Perfect Filet Mignon
Getting filet mignon just right means locking in flavor without drying it out. Follow these steps, and you’ll get a tender, mouthwatering result every time.
🔥 Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Steak
- Remove filet mignon from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking. This brings it to room temperature, which helps it cook evenly.
- Drizzle with olive oil, rub in garlic salt, rosemary, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Massage the seasonings into both sides and let it rest while the grill heats up.
🔥 Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
- Fire up your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 450°F).
- Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
🔥 Step 3: Sear Like a Pro
- Place steaks on the hottest part of the grill.
- Sear for 3 minutes, then rotate 45° to get those Instagram-worthy crisscross marks. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Flip once and move to a slightly cooler section of the grill.
🔥 Step 4: Finish and Rest
- Cook for another 4–6 minutes, depending on your desired doneness:
- Medium rare: 130–135°F
- Medium: 140–145°F
- Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5–7 minutes. This step is gold — it keeps the juices from spilling out when you slice it.
How to Grill Jumbo Prawns Like a Chef
These jumbo prawns cook up fast, so timing is everything. You want them tender, not rubbery.
🔥 Step 1: Season and Preheat
- Make sure prawns are patted dry — moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
- Toss them with olive oil, lemon thyme, chopped chives, and garlic.
🔥 Step 2: Get the Grill Hot
- Use medium heat (around 375–400°F).
- Prawns don’t need the intense sear that steak does.
🔥 Step 3: Grill with Care
- Place prawns on the grill and cook for 2 minutes per side.
- Flip once — when they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
🔥 Step 4: Serve Immediately
- Remove from heat and serve right away over your resting filet mignon.
Bonus: Use These Flavor Boosters While Cooking
- Brush steaks with melted herb butter in the final minute for extra richness.
- Toss prawns in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to cut through the richness of the beef.
Next up, we’re talking presentation — because let’s face it, your surf and turf deserves more than just a paper plate. Get ready to learn how to plate filet mignon and jumbo prawns like a true kitchen boss.
Delicious Variations of Filet Mignon & Jumbo Prawn
Delicious Variations of Filet Mignon & Jumbo Prawn
While the classic filet mignon and jumbo prawn combo is a total crowd-pleaser, there’s no rule saying you can’t shake things up. In fact, experimenting with surf and turf variations can turn a great dish into something unforgettable — or better yet, personalized to your taste buds.
Here are some irresistible twists that keep the wow factor without losing the heart of the original dish.
Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail: The Luxe Upgrade
Let’s be honest — lobster tail might be the OG “surf” in surf and turf. If you want to take your meal from “fancy” to “fine dining,” this is your move.
What Makes It Different?
- Lobster has a richer, slightly sweeter taste than prawns.
- The texture is firmer, giving a more “meaty” seafood bite.
- It’s often considered more luxurious, perfect for holidays or anniversaries.
Quick Tip:
Instead of grilling lobster, try broiling it with garlic-lemon butter until it’s just opaque — around 8–10 minutes.
Filet Mignon & Shrimp Skewers: Casual But Classy
If jumbo prawns aren’t available, large shrimp skewers make a great substitute. They’re perfect for backyard grilling and can soak up bold flavors like chili, paprika, and garlic.
Why This Works:
- Shrimp cook faster and are more budget-friendly.
- Skewers add a fun, interactive element — great for family-style dinners.
Just remember, shrimp cook quickly — around 2 minutes per side on the grill is plenty.
Filet Mignon with Grilled Scallops
Want a softer, buttery seafood profile? Swap prawns for grilled scallops. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor complements the beef beautifully.
- Scallops should be dry-packed and firm to the touch.
- Sear on a hot skillet or grill for about 2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
Vegan Surf & Turf Alternatives
Yes, even plant-based eaters can enjoy this duo — just swap the main proteins.
Plant-Based “Filet” Ideas:
- Grilled portobello mushrooms
- Marinated seitan or tofu steaks
Vegan “Prawns”?
- Pan-seared king oyster mushrooms (sliced into “scallop” shapes)
- Marinated hearts of palm with lemon and garlic
Drizzle everything with a garlic-herb vegan butter or chimichurri to bring the flavors together.
Spice It Up: Global Flavor Twists
Want to add a cultural flair? Here are some ways to bring global inspiration into your surf and turf game:
- Mexican-style: Use chipotle rubs on the filet and lime-cilantro prawns
- Asian-style: Marinade in soy, sesame oil, and ginger; serve with jasmine rice
- Mediterranean-style: Add oregano, olive oil, and lemon zest to everything
Each variation brings a whole new layer of flavor, and more importantly, makes the dish your own.
Coming up next: let’s talk presentation and plating tips, because if you’re putting this much love into your food — it better look as good as it tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Filet Mignon & Jumbo Prawn
Looking for quick answers about filet mignon and jumbo prawn surf and turf? You’re not alone. Here’s what people are asking — and what you need to know before firing up the grill.
What’s the difference between prawns and shrimp?
Although many folks use the terms prawns and shrimp interchangeably, they’re technically not the same.
- Prawns tend to be larger, have straighter bodies, and are commonly found in freshwater.
- Shrimp are typically smaller, slightly curved, and usually caught in saltwater.
In recipes like surf and turf, jumbo prawns are preferred because of their size and meatier bite — making them a perfect match for filet mignon.
Is filet mignon more tender than other steak cuts?
Yes, filet mignon is one of the most tender cuts of beef. It comes from the smaller end of the tenderloin — a muscle that doesn’t do much work. That’s why it’s:
- Lean, yet buttery soft
- Low in connective tissue
- Perfect for quick cooking at high heat
If you’re after that melt-in-your-mouth experience, this is the steak to pick.
How do I know when jumbo prawns are fully cooked?
Here’s a simple trick: watch the color.
- Raw prawns are gray and translucent.
- Cooked prawns turn pink and opaque, and curl into a tight “C” shape.
Be careful — overcooking prawns is easy and can make them rubbery. On a hot grill, they only need about 2 minutes per side.
What are the best sides to serve with filet mignon and prawns?
Here are some killer pairings that enhance your surf and turf without overpowering it:
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted asparagus or broccolini
- Lemon herb rice or wild rice
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
Each side brings balance — from starchy comfort to fresh crunch.
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