Loaded Surf & Turf Cheesy Fries

🧀🍤 Loaded Surf & Turf Cheesy Fries

Crispy golden fries topped with seasoned beef, juicy shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and a dollop of sour cream — the ultimate comfort food platter!

📝 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the Fries:

• 4 large potatoes (or 800g frozen thick-cut fries)

• 2 tbsp oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Beef Topping:

• 300g beef strips or shredded beef

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 small onion (finely chopped)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (optional for extra flavor)

For the Shrimp:

• 250g medium shrimp (peeled & deveined)

• 1 tbsp butter or oil

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Pinch of salt

• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp flour

• 1 cup milk

• 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

Toppings:

• Sour cream (or garlic yogurt sauce)

• Dried herbs (parsley or oregano)

• Extra shredded cheese (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

1. If using fresh potatoes: peel and cut into thick fries.

2. Soak in cold water for 20–30 minutes (removes excess starch).

3. Pat dry completely.

4. Toss with oil, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.

5. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 30–40 minutes or air fry at 190°C for 18–20 minutes until crispy and golden.

(If using frozen fries, cook according to package instructions.)

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add onions and sauté until soft.

3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4. Add beef strips, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

5. Cook until browned and tender (6–8 minutes).

6. Stir in BBQ sauce if using.

7. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat butter in a pan.

2. Add shrimp and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden.

4. Add lemon juice and remove from heat.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan.

2. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute (forms a roux).

3. Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.

4. Cook until thickened (2–3 minutes).

5. Add shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.

6. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Place crispy fries in a tray or serving dish.

2. Top with cooked beef.

3. Add shrimp evenly over the top.

4. Pour generous cheese sauce over everything.

5. Sprinkle dried herbs.

6. Add a swirl of sour cream in the center.

🔥 Optional Add-Ons

• Jalapeños for spice

• Crispy bacon bits

• Green onions

• Hot sauce drizzle

🍽 Serving Tip

Serve immediately while hot and cheesy! Perfect for sharing, game nights, or indulgent weekend dinners.