Mozzarella-Stuffed Steak with Garlic Butter Shrimp

3 tbsp unsalted butter

3–4 garlic cloves, finely minced

½ tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

½ tsp lemon pepper (optional, enhances brightness)

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Lay the steaks flat on a clean cutting board. If they aren’t already thin-cut, pound them gently with a meat mallet until about ¼-inch thick.
Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Place mozzarella evenly down the center of each steak, leaving space near the edges.
Roll up each steak tightly, jelly-roll style, starting from one short end.
Secure with toothpicks or wrap with butcher’s twine. You want the rolls tight enough that cheese won’t leak out during cooking.

Optional: Chill the rolled steak for 10 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat.
Sear steak rolls on all sides until browned — about 2–3 minutes per side.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and cook for 8–10 more minutes, until the internal temp reaches 130–135°F for medium-rare or longer for desired doneness.
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes under foil to lock in juices.

In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant — don’t let it brown.
Toss in shrimp, paprika, lemon pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink and curl slightly.
Finish with lemon juice and chopped parsley. Stir to coat evenly.

Don’t overcook the shrimp — they should be juicy and tender, not rubbery.

Carefully remove toothpicks or twine from the steak rolls.
Slice the steak into thick medallions or serve whole if preferred.
Spoon garlic butter shrimp over the steak.
Drizzle extra garlic butter from the pan for extra richness.
Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked pepper, or a few chili flakes if you like heat.

Cheese Options: Try gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Add Greens: Roll in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
Upgrade the Shrimp: Marinate shrimp in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs before cooking for deeper flavor.
Oven Finish: After searing the steak rolls, transfer to a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to cook through while freeing up the stove for shrimp.

Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec pairs beautifully with the richness of the steak and mozzarella.
White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or buttery Sauvignon Blanc complements the shrimp and lemon butter sauce.