Surf and Turf Garlic Bread Open-Faced Sandwich

A loaded open-faced sandwich featuring juicy garlic-butter steak, tender shrimp, and gooey melted cheese piled onto crispy, buttery garlic bread. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for an indulgent lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Bread:

• 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Steak:

• 12 oz (340 g) sirloin steak or ribeye
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Shrimp:

• 12 oz (340 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Topping:

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded provolone
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Slice the baguette lengthwise to create two large open-faced pieces.

Mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt.

Spread the garlic butter generously over the cut sides of the bread.

Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 7–9 minutes, until lightly crisp and fragrant.

Remove from the oven and set aside.

2. Prepare the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the steak and cook for approximately 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Add the butter and minced garlic during the final minute. Spoon the garlic butter over the steak.

Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes.

Slice thinly against the grain.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Reduce the skillet to medium heat.

Add the butter and minced garlic.

Add the shrimp, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes per side, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Remove from the heat and toss with fresh lemon juice.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches

Arrange the sliced steak over the toasted garlic bread.

Place the garlic-butter shrimp evenly over the steak.

Sprinkle mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan over the top.

5. Melt the Cheese

Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven.

Bake for 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.

For a more golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely so the bread doesn’t burn.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Cut into portions and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings:

• Calories: 720
• Protein: 52 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fat: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 1,250 mg

Nutrition will vary depending on the bread, steak, shrimp, butter, and cheese brands used.

Nut Information

• Peanuts: No
• Tree nuts: No
• Other nuts: No
• Nut-free: Yes, as written
• Dairy: Yes
• Eggs: No
• Shellfish: Yes — shrimp
• Gluten: Yes — bread
• For gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free bread and verify all packaged seasonings and cheese.

Q & A

Q: What steak works best?
A: Sirloin is a great balance of flavor and affordability. Ribeye gives the sandwich a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Q: Can I use leftover steak?
A: Yes. Slice it thinly and warm it gently in the skillet before assembling.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw completely and pat them very dry before cooking.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely. Monterey Jack, cheddar, Swiss, fontina, or provolone all work well.

Q: Can I make the garlic bread extra crispy?
A: Toast it for an additional 2–3 minutes before adding the steak and shrimp, but watch it closely.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes. Sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or spinach make excellent additions.

Q: How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?
A: Toast the garlic bread well before adding the toppings and avoid using excess sauce or liquid.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: The steak and shrimp can be prepared ahead, but assemble and bake the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.

Q: How should leftovers be stored?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave to help keep the bread crisp.