Step 1: Prepare the Baked Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and poke a few holes in each with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Season the Shrimp: While the potatoes are baking, season the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the New York Strip Steak
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add the olive oil and, once hot, sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Baste the Steaks: In the last minute of cooking, add the butter, garlic, and rosemary to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter and herbs for extra flavor.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Shrimp Baked Potatoes
- Cut and Fluff the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done baking, slice them open lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork. Add a small pat of butter to each potato.
- Load the Potatoes: Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, shrimp, crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. Add extra cheese if desired, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the Dish: Place the sliced New York strip steak on a serving plate next to the loaded shrimp baked potato. Optionally, garnish the steak with fresh herbs or serve with a side of sautéed vegetables for added color and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Steak and Baked Potato:
- Steak Doneness Guide: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks: 125°F (52°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 160°F (71°C) for well done.
- Extra Flavor: For more flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the potatoes or mix some garlic butter into the mashed potato filling.
- Make it Saucy: Drizzle the steak with a simple sauce made from the pan drippings, butter, and garlic, or serve with steak sauce on the side.
Conclusion
This New York strip steak with loaded shrimp baked potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal. With its rich, buttery steak and a baked potato packed with cheesy, shrimp-filled goodness, it’s perfect for a special occasion or whenever you’re craving an indulgent, savory dinner.