Description
Shrimp & Cheeseburger with Loaded Fries
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
4 burger buns
8-10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 slices cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp hot sauce
For the Loaded Fries:
4 large potatoes, cut into fries
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup cheese sauce
2 tbsp green onions, chopped
1 tbsp paprika
Instructions:
Prepare the fries: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the potato fries with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Cook the shrimp: While the fries are baking, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
Prepare the burgers: While the shrimp cooks, form the ground beef into 4 burger patties. Season with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until desired doneness. Add a slice of cheddar cheese on top during the last minute of cooking to melt.
Assemble the burgers: Toast the burger buns in a skillet or on the grill. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cheeseburger patty, followed by a few shrimp. Top with the other half of the bun.
Make the loaded fries: Once the fries are done, drizzle them with cheese sauce, and sprinkle with green onions and extra paprika for a little kick.
Serve and enjoy: Plate your shrimp cheeseburger alongside the loaded fries. Drizzle a bit of ketchup, mayonnaise, and hot sauce on the fries for a creamy and spicy finish!
This surf-and-turf burger and loaded fries combo will definitely hit the spot!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Bake Fries: Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut potatoes into uniform fries, toss with oil and seasonings, and bake on a single layer for 20-25 mins, flipping once.
2. Season & Cook Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Set aside.
3. Form & Cook Patties: Gently form beef into four equal patties, making a slight indent in the center. Season and cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Add cheese to melt in the last minute.
4. Toast & Build: Lightly toast the cut sides of the buns. On the bottom bun, layer lettuce, the cheeseburger patty, and 2-3 shrimp. Cap with the top bun.
5. Load the Fries: Transfer baked fries to a serving platter. Drizzle with warm cheese sauce and garnish with chopped green onions and a pinch of paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty meal on a large platter for a casual, shareable feast. Offer small bowls of extra ketchup, mayo, and hot sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, pair with a light, crisp coleslaw or a simple garden salad to balance the richness. A cold lager or an iced tea makes an excellent beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
This dish combines a classic cheeseburger with seasoned shrimp and loaded fries. The key steps are: baking seasoned potato fries until crispy, pan-searing paprika-garlic shrimp, grilling cheeseburger patties, and assembling. Finally, the fries are topped with cheese sauce and garnishes for the ultimate side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fries? Absolutely. Using frozen fries can save 15-20 minutes. Choose a sturdy, thick-cut variety and bake or air-fry according to package directions before loading.
What’s the best way to prevent burger patties from shrinking? Make a shallow thumbprint indent in the center of each raw patty. This helps the patty cook evenly and maintain a flat shape instead of puffing up.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. You can season the shrimp, form the burger patties, and cut the potatoes up to a day in advance. Store them separately, covered, in the refrigerator.
What are good shrimp substitutes? For a different surf-and-turf twist, try scallops or lump crab meat. For a purely turf option, crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms are excellent burger toppers.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking? Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” and become rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the ground beef when forming patties, as this makes them tough. Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp, as they will steam instead of sear. For the fries, ensure they are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet; piling them leads to soggy results. Finally, don’t skip toasting the buns, as it adds crucial texture and prevents sogginess.
Conclusion
This Shrimp & Cheeseburger with Loaded Fries is a show-stopping meal that masterfully blends land and sea. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a weekend gathering or a special treat that is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying combination.