Description

Mozzarella-Stuffed Steak with Shrimp is a rich, restaurant-style dish that combines juicy seared steak filled with melted mozzarella and topped

with tender, garlic-butter shrimp. The contrast between the savory beef, creamy cheese center, and delicate seafood creates a bold yet

balanced plate perfect for special dinners or elevated home cooking.

Ingredients

For the Steak

• 2 large ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 2.5–3 cm thick)

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure)

For the Shrimp

• 250 g (½ lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket horizontally into the side of each steak without slicing all the way through.

2. Stuff the pocket generously with mozzarella cheese.

3. Secure the opening with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine.

4. Pat the steak dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat.

2. Place the stuffed steaks in the hot pan and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms.

3. Reduce heat slightly, add butter, and baste the steaks with melted butter for extra flavor.

4. Continue cooking to your preferred doneness:

   • Medium-rare: 57–60°C (135–140°F)

   • Medium: 63°C (145°F)

   • Medium-well: 65–68°C (150–155°F)

5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5–7 minutes.

Resting helps the juices redistribute and keeps the steak tender.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.

4. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

5. Finish with lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Do not overcook shrimp - they should be firm but tender.

Step 4: Assemble

1. Remove toothpicks from steak.

2. Slice carefully to reveal the melted mozzarella center.

3. Place shrimp over or beside the steak.

4. Spoon a little garlic butter from the shrimp pan over the top.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

• Pair with asparagus or sautéed spinach for freshness.

• A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness.

Tips

• Use fresh mozzarella for better melting texture.

• Let steaks come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.

• If cheese leaks slightly during cooking, it will create delicious crispy edges.

• For extra flavor, deglaze the steak pan with a splash of white wine and drizzle over the finished dish.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the steak.

Mozzarella-Stuffed Steak with Shrimp delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and elegant presentation — a perfect combination of land and sea

on one plate.