Loaded Surf & Turf Fries bring together the best of both worlds by combining tender, juicy steak with succulent shrimp atop a bed of crispy golden fries. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and rich flavors enhanced by creamy cheese sauce and fresh, zesty salsa.
Perfect for gatherings or a delicious appetizer, this dish satisfies seafood and steak lovers alike, making every bite a gourmet experience with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
- This dish combines the savory depth of steak with the delicate sweetness of shrimp for an unbeatable surf and turf flavor.
- Crispy french fries serve as the perfect base, adding satisfying crunch to every mouthful.
- The creamy cheese sauce and fresh salsa bring richness and brightness, balancing the dish beautifully.
- Easy to prepare at home, ideal for sharing with family and friends as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- Steak (1 lb): Tender ribeye or sirloin, diced for quick, even cooking and juicy texture.
- Large Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined, providing a sweet, tender seafood element.
- Frozen French Fries (1 bag): Crispy golden fries serve as the flavorful and crunchy base.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts smoothly for a creamy, tangy cheese sauce coating the toppings.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds richness and smoothness to the cheese sauce with subtle tang.
- Salsa (1/4 cup): Fresh and zesty, offering acidity and brightness to balance richness.
- Fresh Cilantro (1/4 cup): Chopped to provide fresh herbal notes and color garnish.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Used to sear steak and shrimp, enhancing flavor and juiciness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all ingredients’ natural flavors.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Bake Fries
Set your oven according to the frozen fries package instructions to ensure perfect crispiness. Spread the fries evenly on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and crunchy, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. This step creates the crispy base that’s crucial for texture contrast.
- Cook the Steak
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering. Add the diced steak, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is nicely browned but still tender, locking in juices for robust flavor.
- Add and Cook Shrimp
To the same skillet with the steak, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Continue cooking until shrimp turn pink and opaque, roughly 3-4 minutes. Combining shrimp here allows the flavors to meld, while cooking evenly without overcooking.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Stir consistently until smooth and fully melted, creating a luscious cheese sauce. The low heat prevents burning and ensures a velvety texture perfect for drizzling over fries.
- Assemble the Loaded Fries
Arrange the crisp fries on a large serving platter. Generously top with the steak and shrimp mixture, then drizzle warm cheese sauce evenly over. Spoon fresh salsa on top for a zesty kick, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness and visual appeal.
- Ensure the steak is not overcooked to keep it tender and juicy with maximum flavor.
- Choose high-quality shrimp for sweetness and proper texture in the surf portion.
- For extra crispiness, pat dry shrimp before cooking and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Storage Tips
Store leftover loaded fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help restore crispiness, as microwaving may make the fries soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Loaded Surf & Turf Fries as a shareable appetizer or a hearty snack with a side of fresh green salad or coleslaw. Pair with chilled drinks like craft beer or sparkling water with lime to balance the rich flavors.
- Use ribeye for extra marbling and juiciness or sirloin for leaner meat with strong beef flavor.
- Opt for fresh salsa or make your own salsa verde to enhance freshness and acidity.
- Customize the cheese sauce by adding a hint of smoked paprika or garlic powder for depth.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cut potatoes can be used but may require longer baking time to achieve the same crispness as frozen fries.
- What other cheeses can I use for the cheese sauce?
Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can add different flavor profiles.
- Is it okay to substitute shrimp with another seafood?
Absolutely, scallops or crab meat can work well and maintain the surf aspect of the dish.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure the fries and salsa do not contain gluten, and use gluten-free cheese sauces if store-bought.
- Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Prepare steak and shrimp in advance and reheat briefly, but assemble fries just before serving for best texture.
- What sides go well with Loaded Surf & Turf Fries?
Consider fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or simple steamed greens to balance the richness.
Loaded Surf & Turf Fries
Equipment
- 1 oven
- 1 skillet
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak ribeye or sirloin, diced
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 bag frozen french fries
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to french fries package instructions and bake fries on a baking sheet until crispy.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; add diced steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add shrimp to the skillet with steak and cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- In a small saucepan, combine cheddar cheese and sour cream; heat over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble by placing crispy fries on a serving platter; top with steak and shrimp mixture, drizzle cheese sauce, spoon salsa over, and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- Use ribeye for richer flavor or sirloin for leaner meat.
- Substitute salsa with pico de gallo for freshness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in oven for best crispiness.
