Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice

Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Imagine transforming your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality feast with this irresistible Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice. Whether you’re craving the perfect balance of juicy grilled steak and succulent shrimp or seeking a hearty side that combines creamy cheese with tender vegetables, this recipe delivers an easy yet elegant meal that impresses every time. Developed by Chef Lalybeth, this dish stands out for its irresistibly cheesy broccoli, which adds a gooey, comforting twist to the classic surf and turf. In the first few minutes of preparation, you’ll experience how simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that make this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice a go-to favorite for home cooks everywhere.

The allure of this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice lies in its tantalizing textures and aromas that awaken the senses. Picture the steak’s charred exterior giving way to a tender, juicy interior, perfectly complemented by the plump, savory shrimp that burst with oceanic freshness. The broccoli, transformed into a velvety, extra cheesy delight, offers a creamy contrast, while the fluffy rice absorbs all the rich flavors, creating a harmonious blend on your plate. Each bite delivers a symphony of smokiness from the grill, the subtle sea-inspired notes from the shrimp, and the comforting melt of cheddar that makes this dish unforgettable.

What sets this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice apart on cookinwithlalyta.com is Chef Lalybeth’s expert touch, honed through years of kitchen trials to ensure foolproof results. This version isn’t just another recipe—it’s the ultimate guide, packed with insider tips, detailed explanations, and a Chef’s Secret that elevates your cooking game. You’ll learn how to achieve that irresistible cheesy broccoli that’s extra creamy and perfectly melted, avoiding common pitfalls for a stress-free experience. Dive in for comprehensive instructions that build your confidence and turn every meal into a success story.

Why This Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret to this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice lies in the irresistibly cheesy broccoli preparation, where mixing freshly steamed broccoli with high-quality shredded cheddar cheese creates an extra creamy texture that takes center stage. This technique ensures the cheese melts evenly, coating the florets in a luscious, gooey layer that balances the boldness of the grilled steak and shrimp. By using fresh broccoli and letting it steam just until tender, you lock in its vibrant green color and nutrients, making this dish not only flavorful but also visually appealing.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind this recipe’s texture comes from the careful grilling of the sirloin steak, which allows for a perfect medium-rare finish with a seared crust that retains moisture, thanks to the high-protein structure of the meat. Combined with the quick sauté of shrimp, which prevents overcooking and maintains its tender snap, and the fluffy rice that absorbs flavors without becoming mushy, every element delivers a satisfying mouthfeel that’s both hearty and refined.

Foolproof for a Reason: This Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice has been tested multiple times in real home kitchens to guarantee success, even for beginners. With straightforward steps and precise timing, you’ll avoid common errors like tough steak or rubbery shrimp, making it a reliable choice for any occasion. Its American cuisine roots keep it accessible while adding a modern twist with the extra cheesy broccoli element.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

For the 1 lb sirloin steak, this cut is essential as it provides a robust, beefy flavor and tender texture that forms the hearty base of your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice. Quality matters here—opt for grass-fed beef for better marbling and taste. If substituting, flank steak works well, but marinate it for 30 minutes to enhance tenderness and prevent it from becoming chewy.

The 1/2 lb large shrimp bring a sweet, oceanic essence to the dish, pairing beautifully with the grilled steak in this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice. Fresh or frozen wild-caught shrimp is key for optimal flavor and sustainability; always choose deveined options to save time. For substitutions, scallops offer a similar seafood profile, but cook them briefly to avoid toughness, maintaining the dish’s luxurious feel.

Fresh broccoli florets, at 2 cups, add a nutritious crunch and vibrant color, making the cheesy broccoli component in your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice irresistible. Quality fresh broccoli ensures it’s packed with vitamins; select firm, dark green heads. If needed, substitute with cauliflower for a low-carb twist, but steam it lightly to preserve its texture and absorb the cheese effectively.

Long-grain rice, measuring 1 cup, serves as the fluffy foundation that soaks up the flavors in this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice recipe. High-quality rice from reputable brands prevents clumping; rinse it thoroughly before cooking. Basmati rice can be substituted for a fragrant variation, but adjust cooking times to keep it light and airy, complementing the other elements perfectly.

Shredded cheddar cheese, at 1 cup, is what makes the broccoli extra cheesy and creamy in this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice. Using freshly shredded cheese ensures smooth melting and rich flavor; avoid pre-shredded for better results. For a dairy-free option, vegan cheddar alternatives work, but add a bit of nutritional yeast for that tangy depth without compromising the gooey texture.

Olive oil, at 2 tablespoons, is crucial for sautéing the shrimp, adding a subtle earthiness to your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice. Extra-virgin olive oil provides the best flavor profile; choose cold-pressed varieties. Avocado oil is a great substitute for a higher smoke point, ensuring your shrimp cooks evenly without any bitter tastes.

Salt and pepper to taste are the simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors in this Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice. Freshly ground pepper and sea salt make a difference in intensity; they’re versatile. If adjusting for dietary needs, use garlic salt for added zest, but measure carefully to avoid overpowering the dish’s delicate balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Steak

Start by taking your 1 lb sirloin steak and generously seasoning it with salt and pepper on both sides. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its natural taste. Place the steak on a clean plate and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Pro Tip: Let the steak rest after seasoning to allow the salt to draw out moisture and then reabsorb it, resulting in a juicier final product in your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice.

Step 2: Grilling the Steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, flipping only once to achieve an even sear. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 135°F.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Overflipping the steak can lead to uneven cooking and a tougher texture; flip it just once to keep it tender and juicy for your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice.

Step 3: Sautéing the Shrimp

In a separate pan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the 1/2 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp, spreading them out evenly. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the shrimp sear properly; this quick cook method keeps them succulent and flavorful in your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice.

Step 4: Steaming the Broccoli

Place 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green, retaining its nutrients.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Oversteaming can make the broccoli mushy; check for tenderness with a fork to maintain the perfect crunch for your cheesy broccoli in the Surf & Turf Plate.

Step 5: Cooking the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of long-grain rice, reduce to a simmer, and cover. Cook according to package instructions, typically 15-18 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and all water is absorbed.

Pro Tip: Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring light, separate grains that pair beautifully with the other components in your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice.

Step 6: Mixing the Cheesy Broccoli

Transfer the steamed broccoli to a bowl and immediately stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy, creating that irresistible extra cheesy element.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Adding cheese to broccoli that’s too cool can result in clumping; use hot broccoli straight from the steamer for a smooth, even melt in your Surf & Turf Plate.

Step 7: Plating the Dish

On serving plates, arrange the grilled steak and sautéed shrimp alongside the cheesy broccoli and cooked rice for a balanced presentation.

Pro Tip: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices, making your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice look and taste professionally plated.

Serving & Presentation

For an impressive presentation of your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice, slice the steak against the grain and fan it out on the plate, then nestle the shrimp around it for visual appeal. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives as a garnish to enhance the colors and add a burst of freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or crusty garlic bread to round out the meal, making it ideal for date nights or family dinners. The extra cheesy broccoli provides a comforting side that complements the savory proteins, creating a well-balanced plate that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the rice and steam the broccoli up to 3 days in advance; store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the steak and shrimp, season the steak ahead and marinate the shrimp overnight for enhanced flavor, but cook them fresh for the best results in your Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice.

Storing Leftovers: Cool any leftovers completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness, or freeze portions for up to 2 months to preserve the flavors of this Surf & Turf Plate.

The Best Way to Reheat: For optimal texture, reheat the steak and shrimp in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out, and warm the cheesy broccoli and rice in the microwave with a splash of water, stirring occasionally, to restore their original creaminess and fluffiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Print

Surf & Turf Plate with Cheesy Broccoli and Rice

---

• Author: Chef Lalybeth
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A savory dish featuring grilled steak and shrimp, accompanied by cheesy broccoli and fluffy rice.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb sirloin steak
• 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the shrimp in olive oil for 3-4 minutes until pink.
4. Steam the broccoli for 5 minutes until tender.
5. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
6. Mix the steamed broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Plate the steak and shrimp with cheesy broccoli and rice.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and avoid overcooking the shrimp.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Method: Main
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 40g