Steak & Shrimp Loaded Yellow Rice Plate: A Flavor-Packed Dinner That Delivers

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If you’re looking for a show-stopping meal that’s hearty, vibrant, and full of layered flavors, this Steak & Shrimp Loaded Yellow Rice Plate is it. Combining tender, juicy steak bites, buttery Cajun shrimp, golden-hued spiced rice, and sautéed veggies, this recipe is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Whether you’re cooking for a special date night, impressing dinner guests, or simply treating yourself to a next-level homemade dinner, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with surprisingly accessible ingredients. And the best part? It all comes together in under an hour, making it both indulgent and realistic for busy home cooks.

Let’s dive into how to make this bold and beautiful plate—and all the little details that will help you nail it.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect for:

  • Foodies who love rich, flavorful meals with a blend of spices and textures.
  • Busy home cooks who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Meal preppers looking for high-protein, balanced plates that reheat well.
  • Entertainers hosting dinner with family or friends—this dish has “wow” factor.

With a beautiful presentation and that “surf-and-turf” flair, it’s a great recipe to elevate your weeknight dinner game or impress a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Layered Flavors: From the spiced yellow rice to the savory steak and Cajun garlic shrimp, every bite offers something new.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable to your dietary needs and preferences.
  • Meal-Prep Friendly: Components can be made ahead and stored for easy weekday lunches or dinners.
  • One Pan Per Component: Minimal cleanup with maximum impact.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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 lemon

For the Veggies:

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

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot with lid (for rice)
  • Two large skillets or sauté pans (for steak and shrimp/veggies)
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Citrus squeezer (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Yellow Rice

Start by melting butter or heating olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add your rice, turmeric, paprika, and onion powder. Toast the rice for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant and the rice begins to look slightly golden.

Pour in the chicken broth, add salt to taste, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Pro Tip: Want even more depth of flavor? Try adding a bay leaf or a small pinch of saffron while the rice cooks.

2. Sear the Steak Bites

Season your steak chunks generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and butter. Once hot, sear the steak bites on all sides until browned and cooked to your desired doneness—about 4–6 minutes total depending on size.

Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest.

Shortcut Tip: Buy pre-cut stew beef to save time on slicing.

3. Cook the Garlic Shrimp

In the same or another skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly curled.

Finish with a generous squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Variation: Swap Cajun seasoning for Old Bay or lemon-pepper for a twist.

4. Sauté the Veggies

Toss your broccoli, sliced bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt. Sauté in a hot skillet until just tender and slightly charred—about 5–7 minutes.

Time-Saver: Use frozen broccoli florets—just be sure to thaw and drain well before sautéing.

5. Assemble the Plate

Now the fun part: build your plate!

  • Start with a generous scoop of yellow rice.
  • Layer on your juicy steak bites.
  • Top with the buttery garlic shrimp.
  • Add sautéed veggies on the side for color, texture, and nutrients.
  • Spoon over any pan juices from the shrimp or steak for an extra flavor bomb.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This dish holds up beautifully as leftovers.

To store:

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Keep rice, protein, and veggies together or separate depending on your preference.

To reheat:

  • Microwave on medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to the rice to prevent drying out.
  • Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or oil.

Freezing? The rice and steak freeze well. Shrimp and veggies are better enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if needed.

Pairing Suggestions

Drinks:

  • A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer pairs beautifully with the shrimp and spices.
  • Prefer non-alcoholic? Try sparkling water with lemon or a ginger-lime mocktail.

Sides:

  • A simple side salad with citrus vinaigrette.
  • Warm garlic naan or crusty bread to soak up those pan juices.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time and liquid slightly—brown rice generally takes 40–45 minutes and about 3 cups of broth.

What if I don’t eat shrimp?

You can swap the shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even a spicy plant-based sausage for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a gentle kick thanks to the Cajun seasoning, but it’s not overwhelming. You can dial up or down the heat to your liking.

Can I grill the steak and shrimp instead?

Yes! Grilling adds an extra smoky depth to both. Just keep an eye on the shrimp—they cook fast.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Steak & Shrimp Loaded Yellow Rice Plate is everything we love in a dinner: bold, colorful, protein-packed, and endlessly satisfying. With just a few key ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be serving up a dish that rivals any restaurant special.

Try it once, and it’s bound to become part of your go-to dinner rotation.

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