Imagine sitting down to a meal that brings the whole family together, filled with laughter, stories, and the incredible aroma of perfectly cooked steak and shrimp. This Surf & Turf Steak with Cajun Shrimp, Loaded Mashed Potatoes, and Smothered Onions is that meal! It’s not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a dish that’s sure to create cherished memories around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love Surf & Turf Steak with Cajun Shrimp, Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Smothered Onions
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and on the table in about 30 minutes.
- Easy: With a simple “cook and serve” method, even beginner cooks can shine.
- Crowd-pleasing: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner date.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of Cajun spices and rich toppings will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for a special occasion.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, they add a delightful seafood flair.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: This will give your shrimp a spicy kick!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the steaks to perfection.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to both the shrimp and the onions.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for a fragrant touch in the shrimp dish.
- Lemon wedges: For a bright and zesty finish.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes: The base for our creamy mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: For that creamy, tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: To make the mash smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because everything is better with cheese!
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: For freshness and a pop of color.
- 2 large onions: The star of our sweet and savory smothered onions.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For caramelizing those onions to perfection.
- Salt: A pinch will do to enhance the onion’s natural sweetness.
How to Make Surf & Turf Steak with Cajun Shrimp, Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Smothered Onions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by boiling the cubed potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add the sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, and keep them warm.
- Cook the Onions: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and let them cook until caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook the Steaks: Season your ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook to your desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Once done, remove from the skillet and let them rest.
- Prepare the Cajun Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, toss in the shrimp and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the steaks and top them with the Cajun shrimp. Serve alongside the loaded mashed potatoes and smothered onions. Don’t forget to garnish with lemon wedges for that extra zing!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these swaps:
- For the steak, you can use filet mignon or sirloin if you prefer.
- Switch up the shrimp for scallops or even grilled chicken for a different protein.
- Add some heat with diced jalapenos in the mashed potatoes!
- If you’re a fan of veggies, toss in some steamed broccoli or asparagus on the side.
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the onions! Allow them to caramelize slowly for the best flavor.
- Let the steaks rest after cooking to ensure they stay juicy.
- Feel free to prep the mashed potatoes ahead of time; just reheat before serving!
How to Store Surf & Turf Steak with Cajun Shrimp, Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Smothered Onions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes to revive their creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning? You can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Can I make this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and smothered onions ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
What side dishes pair well with this meal? A fresh salad or some garlic bread would complement this dish beautifully!
For more delicious recipes, check out Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes or Taco-Loaded Baked Potatoes for treats you will love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty inspirations!
Surf & Turf Steak with Cajun Shrimp, Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Smothered Onions
Imagine sitting down to a meal that brings the whole family together, filled with laughter, stories, and the incredible aroma of perfectly cooked steak and shrimp. This Surf & Turf Steak with Cajun Shrimp, Loaded Mashed Potatoes, and Smothered Onions is that meal! It's not only quick and easy to prepare, but it's also a dish that’s sure to create cherished memories around the dinner table.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
For the Steak and Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning This will give your shrimp a spicy kick!
- 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking the steaks to perfection.
For the Loaded Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lb russet potatoes The base for our creamy mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream For that creamy, tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk To make the mash smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Because everything is better with cheese!
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions For freshness and a pop of color.
For the Smothered Onions
- 2 large onions The star of our sweet and savory smothered onions.
- 2 tbsp butter For caramelizing those onions to perfection.
- Salt and pepper Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- Lemon wedges For a bright and zesty finish.
Instructions
- Step 1: Start by boiling the cubed potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add the sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, and keep them warm.
- Step 2: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and let them cook until caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Set aside.
- Step 3: Season your ribeye steaks with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook to your desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Once done, remove from the skillet and let them rest.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, toss in the shrimp and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 5: Plate the steaks and top them with the Cajun shrimp. Serve alongside the loaded mashed potatoes and smothered onions. Don’t forget to garnish with lemon wedges for that extra zing!
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes to revive their creamy texture.
