Surf and Turf Foil Packets with Sirloin and Shrimp
These foil packets are a simple, flavorful way to cook a surf and turf meal. Juicy sirloin steak and succulent shrimp are cooked together with vegetables, butter, garlic, and herbs, locking in all the juices and flavors. Perfect for a backyard grill, oven, or campfire dinner.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: ~30–35 minutes
Ingredients
For the packets
450 g (1 lb) sirloin steak, cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces
12–16 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter, divided
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat oven or grill
Oven: 200°C (400°F)
Grill: Medium-high heat
2. Prepare foil packets
Cut 4 large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (~12–15 inches each).
3. Season steak and shrimp
In a bowl, toss sirloin with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and half the minced garlic. In a separate bowl, toss shrimp with remaining garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble packets
Divide steak evenly among foil sheets. Arrange vegetables around steak. Add shrimp on top. Place ½ tbsp butter on each packet and sprinkle herbs evenly. Fold foil to create sealed packets.
5. Cook packets
Oven: Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, until steak is cooked to your desired doneness and shrimp are pink.
Grill: Place packets on grill, cover, and cook 12–15 minutes.
6. Serve
Carefully open foil packets (steam will escape!) and serve directly. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired.
Tips for Best Results
Slice steak thinly for faster, even cooking
Use heavy-duty foil to prevent leaks
Don’t overcook shrimp—they cook very quickly
Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice inside the packets for extra flavor
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—assemble packets and refrigerate up to 4 hours before cooking.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes—substitute shrimp with scallops, lobster chunks, or chicken.
Can I freeze the packets?
Yes—freeze uncooked packets up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before cooking.
Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce before sealing packets.
Variations
Mediterranean version: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta
Asian-inspired: Toss steak and shrimp with soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger
Herb butter: Mix fresh parsley and garlic into softened butter for extra richness
Vegetarian packet: Replace steak and shrimp with tofu, mushrooms, and bell peppers
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g