Steak & Shrimp Loaded Yellow Rice Plate – A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Feast

By
Spread the love

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, colorful, and flavor-rich dinner that brings steakhouse vibes to your kitchen, this Steak & Shrimp Loaded Yellow Rice Plate is exactly what your tastebuds are craving. Combining juicy steak bites, buttery Cajun garlic shrimp, and vibrant sautéed veggies over aromatic yellow rice, this dish is more than a meal—it’s a celebration on a plate.

Whether you’re cooking for a weekend dinner party, a cozy night in, or just want to impress your family with something deliciously different, this recipe is built for bold palates and big appetites. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and fancy enough for guests. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour!

Let’s dive into what makes this dish irresistible and how you can whip it up like a pro.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is perfect for:

  • Meat and seafood lovers who enjoy surf and turf meals
  • Busy home cooks looking for a restaurant-style dinner without the long prep
  • Meal preppers seeking a protein-packed and flavorful option
  • Families who want to add a little spice and color to their dinner routine

The combination of steak and shrimp alone is enough to get mouths watering. But when you layer that over golden yellow rice and pair it with crisp-tender veggies? That’s when dinner becomes a standout experience.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Yellow Rice:

  • 2 cups long grain rice
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

For the Steak Bites:

  • 1 lb sirloin or ribeye, cut into chunks
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter

For the Garlic Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

For the Veggies:

  • 1–2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • ½ red onion, sliced
  • Olive oil, salt, and garlic to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Yellow Rice

Start by toasting the long grain rice in butter or olive oil with turmeric, paprika, and onion powder. Toasting the rice adds a nutty aroma and enhances the texture. Once fragrant, add the chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes until fluffy and vibrant.

2. Sear the Steak Bites

Season your steak chunks with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet with olive oil and butter until shimmering, then sear the steak in batches to ensure a good crust. Cook to your desired doneness—medium rare or medium is ideal for juicy, tender bites. Set aside and tent with foil to keep warm.

3. Cook the Garlic Shrimp

In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and season with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and curl. Finish with a squeeze of lemon to brighten everything up.

4. Sauté the Veggies

Toss the broccoli, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and garlic. Sauté in a hot pan until the veggies are tender-crisp with a slight char—this brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky touch.

5. Assemble the Plate

Start with a generous scoop of yellow rice as your base. Layer on the steak bites and top with the buttery shrimp. Add the sautéed veggies to the side and spoon over any remaining pan juices for a final drizzle of flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
  • Medium saucepan with lid (for rice)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Tips & Variations

Flavor Boosts:

  • Add a pinch of saffron to the rice for a deeper golden hue and subtle floral note.
  • Deglaze the steak pan with a splash of white wine or beef broth for an extra savory pan sauce.
  • Add a drizzle of garlic butter on top for extra indulgence.

Protein Swaps:

  • Swap the steak for chicken thighs or pork tenderloin for a different twist.
  • Use scallops or lobster instead of shrimp for a luxurious upgrade.

Veggie Add-Ins:

  • Add corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety.
  • For a spicier kick, sauté the veggies with a touch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Keep rice, protein, and veggies separate for best texture when reheating.

Reheating:

  • Reheat rice with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
  • Warm steak and shrimp gently in a pan over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking.

Freezer Friendly?

  • You can freeze the cooked steak and shrimp, but rice is best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, do so separately and reheat with care to maintain texture.

Food & Drink Pairings

Beverage Ideas:

  • A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp.
  • A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with the steak.
  • For non-alcoholic options, try citrusy sparkling water or iced green tea with lemon.

Side Suggestions:

  • Serve with a simple garden salad with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Warm garlic naan or toasted baguette makes a great accompaniment to soak up the juices.
  • Want extra heat? Add a side of spicy jalapeño crema or chipotle aioli.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the rice, steak, and veggies a day in advance. Reheat everything gently and assemble just before serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth and Cajun seasoning are certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning?

You can use Old Bay, blackening seasoning, or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and thyme.

What type of rice works best?

Long grain rice (like jasmine or basmati) is ideal. Avoid short grain or sticky rice for this dish.

Final Thoughts

This Steak & Shrimp Loaded Yellow Rice Plate is the kind of meal that leaves everyone asking for seconds. It’s bold, colorful, satisfying, and comes together in under an hour—what’s not to love?

Similar Posts