Surf & Turf Loaded Fries (EBT-Friendly)

June 10, 2026

This recipe is part of our EBT Surf & Turf Collection.

Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $12–16 total
Cost Per Serving: $3.00–$4.00

Why You’ll Love It

Imagine a giant platter of crispy fries loaded with juicy steak bites, garlic butter shrimp, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce.

This is the kind of appetizer you’d pay $18–25 for at a sports bar or gastropub. At home, it’s surprisingly affordable and perfect for family movie nights, game days, parties, or when you simply want comfort food that feels special.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~700

Protein: ~35g

Carbohydrates: ~50g

Fat: ~38g

Ingredients:

0.5x
1x
2x
4x
 
 
 
 
 
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Ingredients are subject to availability at local stores. Unavailable items will be automatically substituted at best-effort.

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Step 1: Cook the Fries

Preheat your oven according to the directions on the frozen fries package.

  1. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  2. Bake until deep golden brown and crispy, usually 22–30 minutes, depending on the brand.
  3. For extra crispy fries, cook 3–5 minutes longer than the package recommends.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
  2. Cut into small bite-sized pieces.
  3. Season with:
    • Salt
    • Pepper
    • Paprika
    • Garlic powder
  4. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cold running water.
  2. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
  3. Season with:
    • Salt
    • Pepper
    • Paprika

Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Greek yogurt
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 5: Cook the Steak

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add:
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. Once hot, add the steak pieces in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 2–3 minutes without moving.
  5. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking.
  6. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 6: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Reduce the heat slightly to medium.
  2. Add:
    • 2 tablespoons butter
  3. Once melted, add the shrimp.
  4. Cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until pink and opaque.
  6. Remove from heat immediately.

Step 7: Build the Loaded Surf & Turf Fries

  1. Transfer the hot fries to a large serving platter or baking dish.
  2. Immediately sprinkle with:
    • Shredded cheddar cheese

The heat from the fries will begin melting the cheese.

  1. Top with:
    • Steak bites
    • Garlic butter shrimp

Step 8: Finish & Serve

  1. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the loaded fries.
  2. Sprinkle generously with sliced green onions.
  3. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Budget Stretch Version

Need to lower the cost?

Use:

  • ½ pound steak
  • ½ pound shrimp

Keep the full amount of fries.

The fries provide plenty of volume, so most people won’t notice the reduction in protein.

Optional Variations

Cheeseburger Loaded Fries

Add:

  • Diced pickles
  • Burger sauce

Cajun Surf & Turf Fries

Replace the paprika with:

  • Cajun seasoning

Buffalo Shrimp Version

Toss the cooked shrimp in:

  • Buffalo sauce

Steakhouse Version

Top with:

  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Caramelized onions

Leftover Tips

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh.

If storing leftovers:

  • Keep the garlic sauce separate.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat fries in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
  • Avoid microwaving if possible, as the fries can become soft and soggy.

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