- Bake the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prick the potatoes with a fork, rub them with olive oil and salt, then wrap them in foil. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Steak, Chicken, and Shrimp:
- Season the steak, chicken, and shrimp separately with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak slices to your desired doneness, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and cook the chicken slices until no longer pink and fully cooked. Set aside with the steak.
- In the same skillet, cook the shrimp until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside with the steak and chicken.
- Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
- Cut a slit in the top of each baked potato and gently squeeze the sides to open it up. Add a dollop of butter inside each if desired.
- Divide the cooked steak, chicken, and shrimp among the potatoes, stuffing them inside.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meat and shrimp. The residual heat should help melt the cheese, or you can place the potatoes back in the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
- Top each potato with sour cream, sliced green onions, bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, and diced tomatoes as desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the loaded potatoes immediately while hot, with additional sour cream and toppings on the side if desired.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Tips for Success:
- Potato Selection: Choose large, evenly-sized russet potatoes for the best results, as they have the ideal texture for baking and stuffing.
- Meat Preparation: Ensure the steak and chicken are thinly sliced for quick cooking. You can marinate them beforehand for extra flavor if desired.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Other great additions include avocado, jalapeños, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
This loaded potatoes recipe is a feast in itself, combining the flavors of shrimp, steak, and chicken with the comforting base of baked potatoes. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes, making it perfect for a special dinner or to enjoy during game nights.