Description
Loaded Surf-and-Turf Baked Potato
Take your baked potato game to the next level with this fully loaded surf-and-turf version! Packed with steak, shrimp, broccoli, and gooey cheese sauce, this dish is a meal in itself. Perfect for indulgent dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
:
For the baked potatoes:
4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the toppings:
1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cubed
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
:
Bake the potatoes:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Pierce each potato with a fork.
Bake directly on the oven rack for 1 hour, or until tender.
Cook the steak:
Season the cubed steak with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Cook the shrimp and broccoli:
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3–4 minutes.
Make the cheese sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over low heat. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the loaded potato:
Slice each baked potato open and fluff the insides with a fork. Layer with steak, shrimp, and broccoli.
Drizzle generously with the cheese sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve and enjoy:
Plate the loaded potatoes and serve warm. Each bite is bursting with savory, cheesy goodness!
This Loaded Surf-and-Turf Baked Potato is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines comfort food with an elevated twist. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, scrub the potatoes thoroughly. After oiling and salting, place them directly on the center oven rack with a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any drips. For the steak, ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the cubes to get a proper sear. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. For the cheese sauce, keep the heat low and stir constantly to prevent the cheese from seizing or the sauce from splitting. Steam the broccoli just until bright green to retain texture.
Serving Suggestions
This loaded potato is a complete meal, but it pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp side salad to balance the richness. For a dinner party, consider serving individual potatoes on a plate with a steak knife. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on the side allows guests to customize their dish. For a casual gathering, set up a loaded potato bar with extra toppings like crispy bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or green onions.
How-to Summary
Bake oiled and seasoned russet potatoes at 400°F for one hour. Sear seasoned steak cubes, then cook shrimp in the same pan. Steam broccoli until tender-crisp. Create a simple cheese sauce by melting butter, cream, and cheddar. Split the baked potatoes, fluff the insides, and layer with the cooked steak, shrimp, and broccoli. Top with the warm cheese sauce and a garnish of fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. You can bake the potatoes, cook the steak and shrimp, and steam the broccoli up to a day in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently and make the cheese sauce fresh before assembling.
What are good substitutes for heavy cream in the cheese sauce? Whole milk or half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. For a lighter version, consider a roux-based cheese sauce made with milk.
How do I know when the baked potato is fully cooked? The skin should be crisp, and the potato should yield easily when squeezed (use an oven mitt). You can also insert a fork or skewer into the center; it should meet no resistance.
Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them very dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly instead of steaming.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reassemble the potato and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving is quicker but can make the potato skin soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid wrapping potatoes in foil before baking, as this steams them and results in a soggy skin. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they become rubbery. When making the cheese sauce, resist using high heat, which can cause the dairy to separate. Ensure your steak cubes are patted dry before seasoning and searing to achieve a good crust. Finally, do not skip fluffing the potato interior with a fork, as this creates pockets for the toppings and sauce to settle into.
Conclusion
This Loaded Surf-and-Turf Baked Potato masterfully combines the hearty satisfaction of steak with the delicate flavor of shrimp, all brought together by a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It transforms a humble baked potato into a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can confidently create a restaurant-quality dish at home that is sure to impress. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a luxurious twist.