Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Shrimp & Broccoli
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally satisfying as a loaded baked potato. But what if we told you that you could take this beloved classic to the next level with the rich, savory goodness of steak bites, succulent shrimp, and steamed broccoli, all topped with a smooth, creamy cheddar cheese sauce?
This Loaded Baked Potato with Steak, Shrimp & Broccoli is a hearty, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy meal that comes together easily in your home kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you want something indulgent without the hassle of a complex recipe.
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer
This is not your average baked potato. With the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and cheesy decadence, this dish hits all the right notes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, entertaining guests, or treating yourself to a gourmet comfort meal, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser.
It’s versatile, easy to customize, and ready in under an hour with minimal prep work. Plus, the combination of textures and flavors — crispy potato skin, tender steak, buttery shrimp, and creamy cheddar sauce — is completely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 1/2 lb steak, cut into bite-sized cubes (sirloin or ribeye works best)
- 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Checklist
- Baking sheet
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Saucepan (for cheese sauce)
- Steamer or microwave (for broccoli)
- Knife and cutting board
- Fork (for fluffing potatoes)
- Mixing spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub and dry the russet potatoes. Prick each one a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Place directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Once baked, remove from the oven, cut a slit down the center, and fluff the insides with a fork.
2. Cook the Steak and Shrimp
- While the potatoes are baking, season steak cubes and shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil.
- Add the steak bites and sear for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and keep warm.
3. Steam the Broccoli
- While proteins cook, steam the broccoli florets until just tender. This can be done using a steamer basket, or microwaved with a splash of water in a covered bowl for about 3 minutes.
4. Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a light simmer.
- Gradually add the cheddar cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce is fully melted and silky smooth. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes
- Take each baked potato and load it generously with steak bites, shrimp, and steamed broccoli.
- Pour the warm cheddar sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Variations & Swaps
- Spice it up: Swap the cheddar sauce for a spicy queso or pepper jack cheese for added heat.
- Low-carb version: Use roasted cauliflower halves instead of baked potatoes for a keto-friendly option.
- Add bacon: Crumble crispy bacon on top for a smoky crunch.
- Sauce twist: Use garlic herb butter or a creamy horseradish sauce instead of cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Surf & turf tacos: Repurpose the filling into flour tortillas with a drizzle of chipotle crema.
Leftover Storage & Reheating Tips
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave in 60-second bursts until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or extra cheese sauce if needed to revive the moisture.
Freezing: Not recommended, as potatoes and cheese sauce may separate and lose texture upon thawing.
Ideal Pairings
- Drink: A robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a light lager pairs beautifully with the richness of the steak and cheddar.
- Side: A simple garden salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic green beans balances out the indulgence.
- Dessert: Finish the meal with something light, like fresh berries and whipped cream or a tangy lemon sorbet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes. Yukon Golds also work well for their creamy texture, though russets have the best fluffiness and skin for loading.
What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?
Tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even filet mignon work best. Avoid tougher cuts unless marinated well in advance.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can bake the potatoes, steam the broccoli, and prepare the proteins a few hours ahead. Reheat and assemble just before serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes — as long as your cheddar cheese and seasonings are gluten-free (always double-check labels).
A Final Bite
This Loaded Baked Potato with Steak, Shrimp & Broccoli recipe proves that comfort food can be decadent, nutritious, and gourmet, all at once. Whether you’re indulging on a Friday night or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish delivers flavor, satisfaction, and style.
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Let me know if you’d like to discover more savory one-dish meals or get inspired with creative topping combos.