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    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe Stuffed with Jalapeno

    June 21, 2009 By Lea Ann Brown 3 Comments

    BacShrimp stuffed with pickled jalapenos and wrapped in bacon served with a mayo chile sauce and garnished with pickled mexican vegetables

    This Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe is stuffed with a sliced pickled Jalapeno and then served with the best dipping sauce you’ve ever tasted. A quick marinade in balsamic vinegar adds a depth of flavor to make this shrimp appetizer recipe a show stopper. You’ve got to try this one.  AWESOME.

    Shrimp stuffed with pickled jalapenos and wrapped in bacon served with a mayo chile sauce and garnished with pickled mexican vegetables

    We all met up over at Tom and Kathy’s house for a typical Highlands Ranch All-American backyard BBQ.

    To preface a great meal of beef kabobs, there’s always note worthy appetizers. And one of those appetizers is so incredibly delicious and popular, I just had to share the recipe with you.

    Kathy’s Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe is a tradition with our group of friends. A recipe that the crowd simply goes crazy over. Let’s take a look. 

    How to make bacon wrapped shrimp

    how to make bacon wrapped shrimp

    These little bacon wrapped shrimp literally sprout wings and fly off that appetizer platter. They’re simply that irresistible. Easy to assemble and quick to cook. You can easily cook these bacon wrapped shrimp in the oven. Let’s take a look.

    • Sauce for bacon wrapped shrimp Prepare the dipping sauce. Recipe below. Place in refrigerator until ready to use.
    • Shrimp marinated in balsamic vinegar Purchase good quality large shrimp. Shrimp that tastes like shrimp. Look for Wild caught American shrimp. Remove shells, remove tails and devein the shrimp. Cut a deep enough slit down the back of the shrimp. Deep enough that you’ll be able to tuck that strip of jalapeno pepper into (see below). Let them marinate in balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes.
    • Soak the wooden toothpicks Soak the wooden toothpicks in water for 30 minutes.
    • Prepare the bacon I’ve used both thick sliced and regular bacon for this recipe. Even though the thick sliced worked pretty well, it took longer to cook which puts the shrimp at risk for over cooking. Take 12 strips of bacon and lay on a cutting board. Slice them crosswise in half.
    • Pickled Jalapeno I like to purchase La Costena canned pickled jalapenos. They’re sliced lengthwise as opposed to sliced into rings. They’re a perfect size for the shrimp and will tuck nicely into that cut down the back of the shrimp. Plus, it’s easy to remove the seeds from these wedges. Removing seeds will reduce the heat factor of the jalapeno. If you like the heat, leave them in. Cut the wedges of jalapenos in half and tuck 1 wedge into the shrimp.
    • Wrap the shrimp in bacon Place a shrimp on the narrow end of one of the slices of bacon. Wrap the end around the crook of shrimp and then continue to roll until the bacon surrounds the shrimp. Take one of the soaked toothpicks and drive it through the middle of the wrapped shrimp to hold everything together. Then continue this procedure with the rest of the shrimp.
    • Bacon wrapped shrimp in the oven As you finish wrapping each shrimp, place them on a baking sheet large enough so they don’t touch. Air space around each shrimp helps them crisp. Save the balsamic vinegar marinade for basting.
    • Cooking bacon wrapped shrimp Preheat the broiler in your oven. Move the top rack to the 2nd closest level from the broiler. Place the baking sheet in the oven and broil the shrimp for 2 – 3 minutes. Watch them closely so the bacon doesn’t burn. Turn the shrimp over, and baste with the balsamic vinegar. A silicone basting brush works well here.
    • Serve the shrimp Remove the shrimp to your favorite appetizer platter and place the bowl of dipping sauce on the platter. Stand back and watch that happy feeding frenzy unfold before your eyes.

    Bacon wrapped shrimp dipping sauce

    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp stuffed with with alapeno tucked inside, and a very special sauce.

    This sauce for bacon wrapped shrimp is a delicious combo of ingredients you most likely already have on hand:

    • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon chili sauce
    • 1 tablespoon pickle relish
    • 1 tablespoon minced red bell pepper for a little bit of crunch = Awesome.

    Recipe For Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Appetizer

    Broiled bacon wrapped shrimp with dipping sauce

    We all agree we could eat these things every day, every meal.  I’ve made them and they’re easy,  just a little time consuming to assemble, but well worth the effort.

    And they are a great make ahead shrimp appetizer. Just keep warm until ready to serve. They also travel well. Just give them a quick spin in the microwave just long enough to warm them up.

    I hope you give this bacon wrapped jalapeno shrimp recipe a try, and if you do, please come back and give the recipe a star rating and leave a comment about your experience with the recipe.

    And if you have a favorite party shrimp appetizer recipe, let me know, I’d love to give it a try.

    Looking for more appetizer recipes wrapped in bacon? Don’t miss this one for Apples on Horseback.

    More Shrimp Appetizer Recipes

    • Prosciutto wrapped shrimp drizzled with honey and chopped chives.
       Honeyed Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
    • Breaded shrimp with shrimp remoulade sauce.
      Pappas Bros Shrimp Remoulade
    • Shrimp Quesadillas on a blue plate served with black bean and corn salsa.
      Shrimp Quesadillas With Green Chile and Avocado
    • Grilled firecracker shrimp served on a white platter with blue cheese dressing dipping sauce.
      Super Easy Firecracker Shrimp

    And if you’re looking for more appetizer recipes, don’t miss my Appetizer category. You’ll find lots of fun party recipes, including the most popular shrimp appetizer on my site for Campechana, Mexican Shrimp Cocktail.

    If you liked this recipe, please leave a star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below and leave a comment. I always appreciate your feedback and hearing how everything went.

    And, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Make it a delicious day … every day.

    Best Shrimp Appetizer. Shrimp wrapped in bacon with a jalapeno tucked inside and a very special sauce.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Stuffed with Jalapeno

    Bacon wrapped shrimp stuffed with jalapeno pepper, cooked in the oven and dipped into a luscious dipping sauce. A crazy popular crowd pleasing appetizer.
    Prep Time20 minutes mins
    Cook Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time25 minutes mins
    Course: Appetizer Recipes
    Cuisine: American
    Servings: 24
    Calories: 92kcal
    Author: Lea Ann Brown

    Ingredients

    • 24 medium shrimp shelled and deveined and tails removed
    • ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
    • 24 wood toothpicks
    • 12 slices bacon
    • 24 pickled jalapeno slices
    • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 1 Tablespoon chili sauce See note below
    • 1 Tablespoon sweet pickle relish
    • 1 Tablespoon red bell pepper minced

    Instructions

    • Remove tails, remove shells and devein shrimp. Cut a wide slit down the back of the shrimp, large enough to hold a wedge of jalapeno pepper.
    • Place shrimp and balsamic vinegar in a large resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for about 15 min.
    • Soak toothpicks in water while shrimp is marinating. Cut bacon in half, crosswise.
    • Remove shrimp from marinade, reserving marinade. Put 1 piece of bacon on work surface, place on shrimp at the end, place one wedge of jalapeno in the slit of the shrimp, roll and secure with toothpick.
    • Stir together mayo, chili sauce, pickle relish, red pepper and 1 T. water. Refrigerate until ready to use.
    • Broil or grill shrimp brushing with marinade 2-3 minutes. Turn, marinade again and cook another 2-3 min.

    Notes

    If using sliced rings of pickled jalapeno just place the ring in the crook of the shrimp and then roll up in the bacon slices.
    Chili Sauce Options: 
    Heinz Chili Sauce: Heinz chili sauce contains horseradish and pepper seeds to give it spice. A milder heat option for this recipe.
    Sambal Oelek: An Indonesian hot chile sauce. Simple with ingredients, crushed red chiles, vinegar and salt. One tablespoon is roughly the equivalent of 1 jalapeno pepper.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 422mg | Potassium: 62mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 277IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg

    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp … It’s What’s For An Appetizer.

    Grilled Watermelon Salad with Curried Shrimp and Mache

    June 15, 2009 By Lea Ann Brown 2 Comments

    Grilled watermelon wedges with curried shrimp on greek yogurt with a watercress salad

    Fire up that grill for this light and refreshing Summer meal of grilled watermelon salad paired with curried shrimp and mache. An absolutely delicious combination of flavors.

    Grilled watermelon wedges with curried shrimp on greek yogurt with a watercress salad

    About This Recipe

    It’s just starting to get hot here in Denver, Summertime hot. And for a couple of weeks now, we’ve starting seeing huge bins of big beautiful green and white stripped watermelon in front of our markets. Hallelujah! I can eat the stuff all Summer long.

    The watermelons that are available to us right now are from Texas. Our famous Colorado Rocky Ford Melons won’t be available for another month.

    Did you know that the small town of Rocky Ford Colorado hails itself as the "Sweet Melon Capital of the World". That's because hot days, cool nights and a relatively high elevation help farmers grow some of the sweetest cantaloupe on the planet  And believe me, every single bite is lush and cherished.

    So back to this grilled Watermelon salad recipe.

    Never grilled watermelon? Grilling watermelon gives it a smoky nuance and a caramelized flavor. It’s divine if you do it right. Let’s take a look.

    Steps and Procedures

    How To Grill Watermelon

    • For The Caramelization Slice watermelon about 1 inch thick. Sprinkle with sugar on one side only.
    • Place on Grill Place sugared side down on a hot grill that’s been coated with oil.
    • How Long To Grill Watermelon? Grill for only 2 – 3 minutes, peeking underneath until you see good solid grill marks on the cooking side.
    • You’re Done: Don’t turn that watermelon over. Grilling on one side is enough to keep the fruit from getting soggy. It’s ready to serve. Grilled side up of course.

    Flavor Profile

    The grilled watermelon takes on a caramelized texture and taste due to the addition of sugar. And as with any grilled food, brings a smoky flavor to the dish.

    The bright flavor of curry pairs so well with sweet shrimp. Curry has such a unique flavor due to the combination of sweet and savory ingredients, like cumin and turmeric. It’s earthy flavor is a beautiful compliment to sweet tender shrimp.

    This recipe calls for Mache. What is Mache? Mache is a European salad green with small tender leaves. This little lettuce is sweet, soft and velvety. I hope you can find it. I’ve seen it at Whole Foods and Trader Joes. If you can’t find Mache, substitute tender butter lettuce.

    This grilled watermelon salad is beautiful and fresh, crunchy with cucumber, lively with lime juice and cool with mint.

    The real treat comes into play with the creamy Greek Yogurt. It’s tangy flavor seems to balance the whole flavor experience for the grilled watermelon salad.

    To Plate: Swirl a large dollop of the yogurt on each plate.  Arrange a slice of watermelon, the shrimp and greens on top. Mache works beautifully here or watercress.

    Be sure to swirl each fork full through the yogurt.

    It’s a unique and exciting light Summer meal. And healthy!

    grilled watermelon salad with curried shrimp, greek yogurt and watercress salad

    Recipe for Grilled Watermelon Salad with Curried Shrimp

    I hope you give this grilled watermelon salad a try. And if you do, please come back and give the recipe a star rating and leave a comment about your experience with the recipe.

    And if you have a favorite grilled watermelon recipe, let me know, I’d love to give it a try.

    More Summer Shrimp Salad Recipes

    • Blackened Shrimp Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette, A recipe from one of our favorite “high-brow” Denver restaurants. A refreshing entree that's light but in a hearty way.
    • Shrimp “lettuce wrap” Tacos, with lime dressing and crunchy vegetables is gloriously refreshing in flavor.
    • Avocado Shrimp Salad with Mango Dressing, A Jamaican roadside stand inspired dish with sweet shrimp simmered in a peppery broth.

    Note: For this photo, I couldn’t find mache so purchased watercress. Which I found to be a bit too bitter. You can also use tender butter lettuce.

    Grilled watermelon wedges with curried shrimp on greek yogurt with a watercress salad
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Grilled Watermelon Salad with Curried Shrimp

    Fire up that grill for this light and refreshing Summer meal of grilled watermelon paired with curried shrimp
    Prep Time15 minutes mins
    Cook Time8 minutes mins
    Course: Main Course Seafood
    Cuisine: American
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 439kcal
    Author: Lea Ann Brown

    Ingredients

    • For the Grilled Watermelon
    • 2 slices watermelon seedless, rind removed, sliced 1 inch thick
    • 2 teaspoons sugar
    • For the Curried Shrimp
    • 16 large shrimp peeled, deveined and tails left on
    • 1 teaspoon curry powder
    • ¼ cup olive oil
    • For the Salad
    • ½ English cucumber coarsely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon fresh mint coarsely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 Cup tender greens mache or watercress
    • ½ cup Greek-style whole-milk yogurt

    Instructions

    • For The Shrimp: In a bowl combine curry powder and oil and mix well. 
    • Add shrimp to the oil and curry mixture and marinate in refrigerator for one hour, covered.  In the meantime prepare the mache salad.
    • Heat a large fry pan over med-high heat.  Add some of the oil marinade, add shrimp and saute about 2 minutes per side. Or using a grill basket, grill shrimp for about 2 minutes per side.
    • For the Mache Salad: Combine all ingredients except yogurt in a bowl and toss well. Set aside.
    • For the Watermelon: Heat grill or grill pan to medium. Brush grates or pan with olive oil.
    • Sprinkle each slice of watermelon with sugar on one side only. 
    • Place sugared side down on hot grill.  Grill for 2 – 3 minutes peeking underneath until you see good grill marks on the cooking side. Don't turn, just grill on one side and serve. 
    • To Plate: Swirl a large dollop of the yogurt on each plate.  Arrange a slice of watermelon, the shrimp and the mache salad on top.  Serve and enjoy.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 439kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 123mg | Sodium: 403mg | Potassium: 574mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 2039IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 163mg | Iron: 3mg

     

    Kickin Chicken Sandwich with Oatmeal Stout BBQ Sauce

    June 4, 2009 By Lea Ann Brown 2 Comments

    Kickin Chicken Sandwich with Sausage and pickles.

    BBQ Chicken Sandwich with hand-pulled chicken. Layered with spicy sausage and drizzled with beer barbeque sauce made with oatmeal stout, molasses, mustard and chile sauce. Using an oatmeal stout, with it’s bold, full bodied, dark coffee oozing aroma you’ve got yourself an unforgettable beer bbq sauce. Let’s take a look at this Kickin Chicken Sandwich.

    Kickin Chicken Sandwich with Sausage and pickles.

    It seems we love our craft beer in Colorado and it appears these small breweries won’t be going away anytime soon. I read a 2016 report from the Denver Post that there are more than 350 breweries in the state who employ 7,776 people in 94 cities with industry sales at $882 million.

    Breckenridge Brewery Kickin Chicken Sandwich With BBQ Sauce

    Craft beer hit my radar early in the game, thanks to Breckenridge Brewery.

    Breckenridge Brewery opened its doors in 1990 in the mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado. It is the third-oldest craft brewery in the state. They then expanded to a location in Downtown Denver and then another south of Downtown on Kalamath Street.

    This craft beer bbq joint was a favorite of ours and I always ordered their Kicken Chicken Sandwich.

    Described on the menu as: described as:  Hand-pulled light and dark chicken, layered with spicy sausage and drizzled with Oatmeal Stout Barbeque Sauce.

    Post update April 2017: Since I wrote this post in 2009, a lot has changed with Breckenridge Brewery.

    In the summer of 2015, a 12-acre stretch of land that was once a carnation farm became their new production home. Also, they’ve sold to Anheuser-Busch. Located on South Santa Fe, their new campus happens to be right in my back yard.

    It’s a great place to visit, especially with out of town guests. You can tour the brewery, taste the beers, then have dinner in the adjacent Farmhouse restaurant.

    Breckenridge Brewery Kickin Chicken Sandwich Recipe

    This Kickin Chicken Sandwich was on the menu at their Kalamath location before it closed.. I haven’t seen this on their menu at the new location on Santa Fe.

    The BBQ Sauce made with their Oatmeal Stout beer is a true treat. With molasses, mustard and chili sauce = yum. Add some Oatmeal Stout, bold, full-bodied that oozes dark coffee aroma for an unforgettable BBQ sauce.

    I hope you give this Kickin Chicken Sandwich recipe a try, and if you do, please come back and give the recipe a star rating. And leave a comment about your experience with the recipe.

    And if you have a favorite bbq chicken sandwich recipe, let me know, I’d love to give it a try.

    More Chicken Sandwich Recipes

    • Toasted Pueblo Chile Chicken Sandwich
    • Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

    And if you’re looking for more Sandwich Recipes, don’t miss my Sandwich Category. You’ll find lots of delicious ideas including the most popular sandwich recipe on my site for Sloppy Joes.

    Kickin Chicken Sandwich with Sausage and pickles.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Kickin Chicken Sandwich with Spicy Sausage and Oatmeal Stout Beer-B-Q Sauce

    This Kickin' Chicken BBQ Chicken Sandwich is made special using a BBQ sauce made with Oatmeal Stout beer.
    Prep Time30 minutes mins
    Cook Time45 minutes mins
    Course: Main Course Chicken, Main Course Sandwiches
    Cuisine: American
    Servings: 6
    Calories: 496kcal
    Author: Lea Ann Brown

    Ingredients

    • For the sauce
    • ½ cup molasses
    • ¼ cup mustard
    • ½ cup chili sauce
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • ¼ cup powdered onion
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon pepper
    • ½ cup Breckenridge Oatmeal Stout
    • For the Sandwich
    • 1 pound Cooked chicken white and dark meat, hand shredded
    • ½ pound Spicy ground sausage crumbled and cooked. Jimmy Dean works good here.
    • 6 Hamburger Buns

    Instructions

    • For the sauce: Combine all the players in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
    • Roast bone in, skin on chicken breast and chicken thighs in 350 degree oven until cooked through. About 30 – 40 minutes. When done, let cool. Remove skin and meat from bones. Hand shred the meat. Add to the BBQ sauce, and mix until well coated.
    • To build to sandwich, place chicken on buns. Top with cooked sausage and don’t forget that dill pickle.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 496kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 1152mg | Potassium: 884mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 214IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 173mg | Iron: 5mg
    The Counter at the old Breckenridge Brewery – Kalamath Street

    Kickin Chicken Sandwich with Breckenridge Brewery Oatmeal Stout BBQ Sauce … It’s what’s for Dinner

    Cast Iron Skillet Flank Steak With Red Onion Chutney

    June 2, 2009 By Lea Ann Brown Leave a Comment

    Cast iron skillet flank steak served with onion chutney.

    Tender pan seared flank steak made easy using a cast iron skillet. Topped with red onion chutney, this is an amazing combination of flavors and easy enough for a weeknight meal. This cast iron flank steak will become one of your favorite go-to easy dinners.

    This recipe was first published in May of 2009 and updated with step by step instructions May of 2023.

    Sliced flank steak served with red onion marmalade.

    Using a cast iron skillet is an easy way to prepare Flank Steak. A cast iron skillet creates a beautiful seared crust on the steak… it’s like the two were made for each other.

    Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that benefits from high heat and a quick cooking time. And a cast iron skillet is just the tool for accomplishing that task.

    Cast iron skillets are fine tuned machines that provide intense heat. They retain that heat and do so in an evenly distributed way. It’s a perfect tool for creating that sought after golden brown crust that we all love, which is called Maillard Reaction. And doing so while keeping the interior of the steak nice and juicy.

    When cooked properly, a cast iron flank steak can be a tender and juicy entree that’s ready in just minutes. We think it’s the best way to cook flank steak.

    Keeping the seasonings simple, and with no steak marinade time, let’s get started.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    Ingredients to season cast iron flank steak.
    • Oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoking point to get a good outer sear on the steak. Canola oil, vegetable oil or avocado oil work well here.
    • Garlic: Fresh and chopped.
    • Kosher Salt: Why Kosher? Chefs prefer it for it’s pure salty flavor.
    • Red Chile Powder: My chile powder of choice is New Mexico Chimayo Chile Powder. Any New Mexico red powder will work, as well as Cayenne Pepper.
    • Flank Steak

    Ingredient Substitutions

    Seasoning: This simple but flavorful seasoning for flank steak is my “go-to” combination I’ve used for years for pan frying or grilling flank steak. If you want something more traditional and simpler, use a mix like Montreal Steak Seasoning.

    Step by Step Instructions, It’s Easy

    Red onion marmalade in a yellow bowl.
    1. Make the onion chutney: Using my recipe for this quick easy Red Onion Chutney, follow the instructions, and set aside while we make the steak. Tip: Make this chutney a day ahead to save time.

    This Red Onion Chutney is a perfect topping for this just right spicy flank steak. Made with red onion, vinegar, sugar and wine. And once on top of this cast iron flank steak, it creates a wonderful sweet, salty, spicy flavor combo. It’s easy to make, I hope you give it a try.

    Southwestern seasoning for cast iron flank steak.
    1. Make the flank steak seasoning paste: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with the minced garlic, red chile powder, salt and cumin. Use a small whisk to combine.
    Seasoning flank steak to cook in a cast iron skillet.
    1. Season the steak. Rub this mixture all over the steak.
    Cooking Cast Iron Flank Steak.
    Cooking side two of a flank steak in a cast iron skillet.
    1. Cook the steak: Heat a cast iron skillet, large enough to hold a flank steak, over medium high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the flank steak and cook until well browned on one side. This should take about 5 minutes.
    2. Turn the steak and cook the 2nd side for 5 more minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak reads 130 degrees. Remove flank steak to a cutting board and tent with foil. Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

    FAQ’s

    What Kind Of Cast Iron Skillet Is Best?

    Lodge Brand Cast Iron Skillets have been around since 1896. That’s 125 years of cast iron expertise. And they’re affordable. You can also use a Le Creuset enameled cast iron grill pan. It works very well, but also comes with a much higher price point than a Lodge skillet. I like this article from Bon Appetit regarding points to consider when choosing a cast iron skillet.

    What If My Cast Iron Skillet Isn’t Big Enough?

    If you don’t have a skillet large enough to hold a whole flank steak, you can cut the steak into 2 pieces pieces to fit neatly into the skillet. And keep in mind, a flank steak is thicker on one end, so that piece will take a little longer to cook.

    Can I Use This Recipe To Grill Flank Steak?

    Absolutely yes. And, there are no cook time adjustments necessary.

    Why Doesn’t This Flank Steak Use A Marinade?

    This flank steak recipe omits the use of a marinade and replaces it with a quick oil based seasoning. I’ve cooked many a flank steak, some with marinades and some without. While there are merits to infusing flank steak with flavor by using a marinade and long marinade time, I feel its beefy flavor shines well without one.

    Skirt Steak vs. Flank Steak

    If your grocery store doesn’t have flank steak on your shopping day, you can substitute skirt steak. It’s a natural alternative. Skirt steak contains a little more fat, making it juicier than flank steak. But both cuts of meat bring a wonderful beefy flavor to the table. Skirt steak is thinner, longer and skinnier in shape than Flank steak and will cook quicker. Use a meat thermometer when cooking either cut to insure a rare to medium rare experience. 130 – 135 degrees.

    Tips for Success

    • Make sure to let the steak come to room temperature before cooking. This will help it cook evenly and prevent it from being too tough.
    • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. This will ensure that it is cooked to your liking. I highly recommend cooking flank steak to a rare or medium rare. Low on fat and lean, a flank steak benefits from a more rare cooking temperature. 130 – 135 degrees.
    • Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
    • ALWAYS and no if’s, and’s or butt’s, slice a flank steak against the grain. This will shorten the fibers making this lean cut of meat as tender as possible.
    • Don’t try to pan sear any meat in a non-stick skillet. Most non-stick skillets do not get hot enough to properly sear meat.

    What To Serve with Cast Iron Skillet Flank Steak

    • If you’re looking for a low-carb meal, serve cast iron flank steak with a simple tossed salad.
    • Everyone loves a good Old Fashioned Potato Salad. Or a Traditional Macaroni Salad.
    • Try something fun like this popular Smoked Mozzarella Penne Pasta Salad.
    • Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans are always a good choice.

    Cast Iron Skillet Flank Steak with Onion Chutney

    Easy pan seared flank steak recipe with red onion marmalade

    I hope you give this recipe for cast iron Flank Steak a try. It’s a quick and easy dinner, that will fit beautifully in your meal plans. With minimal prep time, it’s on the table pronto and big on flavor.

    More Flank Steak Recipes

    • Grilled Flank Steak with Charred Caramelized Sweet Corn
    • Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
    • Orange Ginger Flank Steak
    • San Juan Grilled Flank Steak and Marinade
    • Grilled Flank Steak Fajitas

    And if you’re looking for more steak recipes, don’t miss my category for Beef Recipes. You’ll find lots of great ideas, including the most popular on my site for this Italian Beef Tagliata.

    If you liked this recipe, please leave a star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below and leave a comment. I always appreciate your feedback and hearing how everything went.

    And, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Make it a delicious day … every day.

    Cast iron skillet flank steak served with onion chutney.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Cast Iron Skillet Flank Steak with Onion Chutney

    A quick and delicious meat entree for a great little weeknight meal.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time20 minutes mins
    Total Time30 minutes mins
    Course: Main Course Beef
    Cuisine: American
    Diet: Gluten Free
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 556kcal
    Author: Lea Ann Brown

    Ingredients

    • 1 recipe Red Onion Chutney
    • 3 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
    • 1 ½ pounds Flank Steak
    • 1 ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
    • 3 cloves garlic fine chopped
    • 1 teaspoon Red Chile Powder New Mexico, or Cayenne
    • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin

    Instructions

    • Make Red Onion Chutney.
    • Heat a skillet large enough to hold a flank steak over medium high heat.
    • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with the minced garlic, red chile pepper, salt and cumin. Rub the mixture over the steak.
    • Cook steak until desired doneness. We happen to like medium rare, so about 5 minutes per side.
    • Transfer the steak to a platter and tent for about 5 minutes. Slice the steak against the grain. Transfer the steaks to plates and top with Red Onion Chutney.

    Notes

    If you don’t have a skillet large enough for a flank steak, cut the steak crosswise into 2 pieces lengthwise.
    There is no reason to put oil in the pan to cook the steak, as the steak is well coated with oil.
    And this flank steak omits the use of a marinade, instead using a quick oil based seasoning rub. I’ve cooked many a flank steak, some with marinades and some without. While there are merits to infusing flank steak with flavor by using a marinade and long marinade time, I feel its beefy flavor shines well without one.
    Tips for Success: 
    • Make sure to let the steak come to room temperature before cooking. This will help it cook evenly and prevent it from being too tough.
    • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. This will ensure that it is cooked to your liking.
    • Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
    • ALWAYS and no if’s, and’s or butt’s, slice a flank steak against the grain.
    • Don’t try to pan sear any meat in a non-stick skillet. Most non-stick skillets do not get hot enough to properly sear meat.
    Red Onion Chutney can be made up to a week in advance.
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 556kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 620mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 51g | Vitamin A: 104IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 3mg

    Cast Iron Skillet Flank Steak with Red Onion Chutney … It’s what’s for dinner.

    Shrimp Scallop Pasta With Orange Cream Sauce

    May 31, 2009 By Lea Ann Brown 4 Comments

    A bowl of shrimp scallop pasta with orange cream sauce.

    Shrimp and Scallop Pasta with Orange Cream Sauce will soon become your favorite seafood pasta recipe. Tender seafood drenched in a creamy orange sauce and served over fettuccini noodles. A lovely seafood recipe for date night or entertaining.

    Top Tip: Cooking Scallops: A perfect seared scallop should have a golden crust on the outside and soft and tender in the middle. Over cooked scallops or shrimp will have a rubbery texture. Don’t be afraid, it’s quite easy. You’ll find tips below.

    seared shrimp and scallops over fettuccini pasta with orange cream sauce.

    What You Can Expect From This Recipe

    If you love shrimp and scallops and a good creamy pasta recipe, you’re going to love this dish.

    This is a restaurant quality meal that’s easy to make in your own kitchen. The sweetness of the shrimp and scallops are a very good pairing for a cream sauce that’s laced with garlic, shallots, orange juice and vermouth.

    The sauce is easy to make and ready in about 20 minutes. It reminds me of a orange fettuccini Alfredo Sauce. And the shrimp and scallops are lightly floured then pan seared, which only takes a few minutes.

    This all can be done while the pasta is cooking and it’s ready to plate before you know it.

    And if you’ve never learned how to “supreme” an orange, you’ll add a culinary skill to your repertoire.

    You can expect a tremendous amount of deliciousness and a creamy texture that makes this recipe irresistible.

    Let’s take a look.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    Ingredients to make shrimp scallop pasta with orange cream sauce.
    • Vermouth: Dry vermouth can be used in many ways in cooking. Use it to deglaze a pan and in this case adding an herbal and slightly sweet flavor to this shrimp and scallop pasta.
    • Orange: We’ll use both orange juice for the cream sauce and and orange wedges for the final presentation.
    • Shallots: I can’t tell you how often and how many of shallots we used in Culinary school. A very versatile ingredient. Chef’s like shallots because they’re sweater than onions, and add a more delicate flavor.
    • Heavy Cream: Will add a luxurious element to the sauce for this recipe. This is not the time to skimp on fat calories and try and use milk.
    • Pasta: I like Fettuccine noodles for this recipe. You can also use spaghetti, bucatini noodles, or even delicate angel hair pasta. Stick with the longer shapes for ease in eating.

    Step by Step Instructions

    This isn’t a difficult recipe to make, however, it’s also not one of those bing – bam – on the table in a jiff meals.

    How to supreme an orange, Or how to peel an orange and not leave any white or peel.
    1. Step 1: Supreme the orange. Which means slicing off the skin and pith so those oranges will show beautifully when sprinkled over the finished pasta. It’s easy. Just cut off the top and the bottom of the orange. Then stand the orange upright and with a sharp chef knife, start at the top of the orange and slice the skin off, including the white membrane. Slice slices by cutting in between the membranes. Voila, perfect beautiful slices of citrus. Then lift out the orange wedges. Hey look, you’re a restaurant chef!
    Coating shrimp and scallops with flour to make shrimp scallop pasta.
    Sauteeing shallot and garlic to make orange cream sauce shrimp and scallop pasta.
    1. Step 2: Place the shrimp and scallops in a large bowl. Sprinkle with flour and use a spoon to toss to coat the seafood pieces.
    2. Step 3: Make the orange cream sauce. You can keep it warm on the stovetop while finishing the meal. In a sauce pan melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbles start to subside, add shallots and cook until tender, about two minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
    Adding vermouth to shallots and garlic to make shrimp scallop pasta sauce.
    Adding orange juice to pan ingredients to make shrimp scallop pasta sauce.
    1. Step 4: Start cooking fettuccine noodles according to package ingredients. Continue with the sauce: Pour vermouth over shallots and garlic, bring to a simmer and reduce by ½. About 3 minutes.
    2. Step 5: Add orange juice and simmer until reduced by ⅓, about 5 minutes.
    Adding cream to sauce ingredients to make shrimp scallop pasta.
    Frying shrimp and scallops to make shrimp scallop pasta.
    1. Step 6: Add the heavy cream to the sauce ingredients and simmer for about 10 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.
    2. Step 7: How to sear scallops and shrimp: In a heavy bottomed skillet add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium high heat. When the butter is hot and the bubbles start to subside, add the scallops, standing up. Brown the scallops, this will take 2 – 3 minutes and then with tongs, turn them over. Then add the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are golden brown and the scallops are cooked through. About another 2 – 3 minutes.
    Seared shrimp scallops with fettuccini noodles in an orange cream sauce topped with orange slices and fresh basil.
    1. Step 8: Drain the pasta and return to pan. Pour the orange cream sauce over the pasta and with tongs, turn to mix well. To serve, place the pasta into your favorite pasta bowls and top with the scallops and shrimp dividing them evenly between the bowls. Sprinkle on the orange slices and chopped fresh basil or dried basil.

    Pro Tip: Always choose good quality scallops. Some store bought scallops are soaked in a phosphate solution which plumps them up with water with also increases the price. It’s important to look for scallops that are labeled “dry” or “dry packed”. A phosphate soaked scallop can taste soapy. A dry packed scallop will sear quicker and and beautifully.

    Tips For Success On Searing Delicate Seafood

    • Searing Scallops and Shrimp: Don’t be afraid of heat, and choose a cast iron skillet or a French Carbon Steel Skillet. Both are excellent tools that distribute heat very well and will create a lovely brown sear on delicate seafood. Don’t use a non-stick skillet. They’re notorious for not getting hot enough to create a good sear. Save non-stick skillets for scrambled eggs.
    • Always start with dry scallops and shrimp. Use a paper towel to pat them dry before flouring and searing.
    • When time to turn the scallops, turn them in the order in which you placed them in the pan. Use the same method once the shrimp are ready to turn.
    • Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Leave space between the pieces of meat. Overcrowding will cause steam to form and will compromise a good sear.

    Resource: I love my French Carbon Steel Pan. It’s lighter weight than a cast iron skillet and easier to manage. Like a cast iron, it can go from stovetop to oven, which is great for searing steaks or seafood then finishing in the oven. I’ve provided an Amazon link for your convenience. If you purchase the Carbon Steel Pan through this link, I receive a small commission with no extra charge to you.

    Storage and Reheating

    Store any leftovers in air-tight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I like to store seafood separate from the leftover pasta.

    To reheat, the 50% power feature on your microwave is your friend. Gently reheat single serving portions of the pasta in 30 second increments. Then top with very gently reheated shrimp and scallops.

    I’m not a fan of freezing creamy leftovers. The texture of the fatty sauce will be compromised when defrosted.

    Recipe for Shrimp and Scallop Pasta with Orange Cream Sauce

    I hope you give this recipe for creamy shrimp scallops pasta a try. It’s truly one of my favorite pasta recipes on my site. And what a treat to find a creamy reason to prepare scallops and shrimp. And as far as shrimp and scallop pasta recipes go, this is got to be at the top of the list for being “the best”.

    More Creamy Pasta Recipes

    • Chicken Fajita Pasta in a large skillet.
      Creamy Chicken Fajita Pasta
    • Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe.
      Stove-Top Cowboy Spaghetti
    • Pappardelle pasta with ham and peas in a lemon cream sauce.
      Pasta with Ham and Peas In A Parmesan Lemon Cream Sauce
    • Lamb ragu with pappardelle pasta.
      Lamb Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta

    And the most popular recipe in my Pasta Recipes Category, Flemings Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Add some steamed lobster meat to this one for an elegant seafood pasta dinner.

    If you liked this recipe, please leave a star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below and leave a comment. I always appreciate your feedback and hearing how everything went.

    And, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Make it a delicious day … every day.

    A bowl of shrimp scallop pasta with orange cream sauce.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 4 votes

    Shrimp Scallop Pasta With Orange Cream Sauce

    Shrimp Scallop Pasta with Orange Cream Sauce will soon become your favorite seafood pasta recipe. Beautiful tender seafood drenched in a creamy orange sauce and served over Fettuccine. A lovely dish for entertaining.
    Prep Time20 minutes mins
    Cook Time20 minutes mins
    Total Time40 minutes mins
    Course: Main Course Seafood
    Cuisine: American
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 906kcal
    Author: Lea Ann Brown

    Ingredients

    • 1 good squeeze Fresh lemon juice
    • 12 jumbo Shrimp peeled and deveined
    • 12 Sea scallops
    • 3 Tablespoons All-purpose flour to dust the seafood
    • 4 tablespoons butter divided
    • 2 small shallots fine chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic chopped
    • ¼ cup dry vermouth
    • ⅔ cup orange juice
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • ½ teaspoon basil dried, or 4 fresh leaves chopped
    • 1 orange supreme cleaned and separated into wedges
    • 1 pound Fettuccini cooked according to package instructions

    Instructions

    • Supreme the orange. Remove skin and pith and divide into wedges, set aside.
    • Squeeze a little lemon juice on shrimp and scallops; toss them lightly in flour. Set aside.
    • In a sauce pan melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbles start to subside, add shallots and cook until tender, about two minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
    • Pour vermouth over shallots and garlic, bring to a simmer and reduce by ½. About 3 minutes. jAdd orange juice and simmer until reduced by ⅓, about 5 minutes. Add the heavy cream and simmer for about 10 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.
    • In the meantime, cook the fettuccini noodles according to package directions.
    • When the pasta is well underway cooking, heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. When the butter is hot, add the scallops, standing up. Brown the scallops, this will take 2 – 3 minutes and then with tongs, turn them over. Then add the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are golden brown and the scallops are cooked through. About another 2 – 3 minutes.
    • Drain the pasta and return to pan. Pour the orange cream sauce over the pasta and with tongs, turn to mix well.
    • To serve, place the pasta into your favorite pasta bowls and top with the scallops and shrimp dividing them evenly between the bowls. Sprinkle on the orange slices and chopped basil.

    Notes

    How To supreme the oranges. Which means slicing off the skin and pith so those oranges will show beautifully when sprinkled over the finished pasta. It’s easy. Just cut off the top and the bottom of the orange. Then stand the orange upright and with a sharp chef knife, start at the top of the orange and slice the skin off, including the white membrane. Just slowly move your knife down the orange. Voila, perfect beautiful slices of citrus. Then lift out the orange wedges. Hey look, you’re a restaurant chef! 🙂
    Tips For Cooking Scallops:
    • Searing Scallops and Shrimp: Don’t be afraid of heat, and choose a cast iron skillet or a French Carbon Steel Skillet. Both are excellent tools that distribute heat very well and will create a lovely brown sear on delicate seafood. Don’t use a non-stick skillet. They’re notorious for not getting hot enough to create a good sear. Save non-stick skillets for scrambled eggs.
    • Always start with dry scallops and shrimp. Use a paper towel to pat them dry before flouring and searing.
    • When time to turn the scallops, turn them in the order in which you placed them in the pan. Use the same method once the shrimp are ready to turn.
    • Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Leave space between the pieces of meat. Overcrowding will cause steam to form and will compromise a good sear.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 906kcal | Carbohydrates: 94g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 46g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Cholesterol: 263mg | Sodium: 465mg | Potassium: 589mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1527IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 131mg | Iron: 3mg

    Shrimp Scallop Pasta With Orange Cream Sauce. ..It’s whats for dinner.

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    I'm Lea Ann

    Welcome to my Colorado kitchen. If you're a fan of rustic homestyle cuisine, you've come to the right place. I'm a Culinary School Grad with a passion to inspire you to cook as often as you can. I offer reliable, approachable and easy to follow recipes. So grab that skillet and let's cook.

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