If you are searching for a comforting yet impressive dish to satisfy everyone at the table, this Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a perfectly baked russet potato bursting with fluffy, tender insides, generously topped with buttery, garlicky shrimp, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. This recipe brings together a delightful balance of textures and flavors that elevate a simple baked potato into a restaurant-worthy main course. It’s a seafood twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to become a household hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, color, and texture that complement one another perfectly.
- 4 large russet potatoes: The star of the dish, these spuds provide a fluffy, hearty base.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a perfectly crisp potato skin when baked.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps cook the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender, protein-packed seafood that makes this dish special.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the shrimp with a deep, aromatic good flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a pop of smoky warmth.
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional): A little kick for those who love bold tastes.
- ½ cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy, it balances the spices and richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly over the hot potato and shrimp for ultimate indulgence.
- 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled: Crispy bits that bring irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Freshness and a subtle bite to brighten the dish.
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish: Adds a lovely pop of green and fresh aroma.
How to Make Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick each russet potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Rub each potato with olive oil and season generously with salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack to bake for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know they’re perfectly done when a fork easily pierces through to the fluffy center and the skin turns crisp and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While your potatoes are baking, melt a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the minced garlic, paprika, and Cajun seasoning if you’re using it. Cook the shrimp for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. This step is where all those savory and smoky flavors develop in the shrimp that make this Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Fluff and Load the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully slice each one open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the insides without breaking the skins. This fluffy texture is the cozy heart of your dish. Then, generously add half a cup of sour cream, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Pile the sautéed shrimp on top, scatter the crumbled bacon, and finish with the sliced green onions.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For the perfect final touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over your loaded potatoes. This not only adds a fresh pop of color but also an herbal brightness that balances the richness beautifully. Serve your Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe immediately while the cheese is gooey and the shrimp warm.
How to Serve Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes truly transform this recipe. Chopped parsley or chives add a vibrant green accent that livens up the dish visually and enhances the flavor profile with a subtle freshness. You can also sprinkle an extra dash of paprika or a squeeze of lemon for a hint of brightness to complement the shrimp.
Side Dishes
This Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even steamed broccoli can round out the plate nicely. The freshness and crunch of a salad contrast the creamy richness of the potato and shrimp toppings perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving these loaded potatoes halved and arranged on a large platter for a shareable family-style presentation. Alternatively, stuff smaller potatoes and turn them into bite-size appetizers for a party. Whatever way you present them, the impressive combination of shrimp and loaded toppings will wow your guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
It’s common to have leftovers of this delicious Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe, so store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, though shrimp is best when eaten fresh, so try to consume within a day if possible for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing
While it’s possible to freeze components like the cooked shrimp or baked potatoes separately, the full loaded potato doesn’t freeze well because the texture of the potato and toppings changes. If you do freeze shrimp or potatoes, thaw thoroughly and reheat gently to maintain quality.
Reheating
To reheat leftover loaded potatoes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the potato soggy and the shrimp rubbery. Reheating in the oven preserves that lovely crispy skin and tender interior.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are preferred for this Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe due to their starchy, fluffy texture when baked. However, you can try Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture, but results will vary slightly.
Is it necessary to peel the shrimp?
Yes, peeling and deveining the shrimp before cooking improves the texture and allows the seasoning to penetrate better, making the shrimp more enjoyable to eat on the potato.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil, replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or avocado, and use a non-dairy cheese alternative to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.
How spicy is this Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe?
The optional Cajun seasoning adds a gentle but noticeable kick. You can adjust the amount or omit it entirely for a milder flavor that still shines with the paprika and garlic.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can bake the potatoes ahead of time and store them. The shrimp is best cooked fresh, but you can prepare the seasoning mix in advance to speed up the cooking process.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe is truly a show-stopper that brings simple ingredients together with a touch of elegance and bold flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish offers the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Give it a try—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato recipe combines fluffy oven-baked russet potatoes topped with garlic-spiced sautéed shrimp, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, and creamy sour cream. A hearty and flavorful American main course perfect for a satisfying dinner that brings together seafood and classic comfort food flavors seamlessly.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shrimp Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
Additional Toppings
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick each scrubbed russet potato several times with a fork. Rub them all over with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to season the skins. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack.
- Bake Potatoes: Bake the potatoes for 45 to 60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a knife. This ensures a fluffy interior perfect for stuffing.
- Cook Shrimp: While the potatoes bake, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, minced garlic, paprika, and Cajun seasoning if using. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Potatoes for Topping: When the potatoes are fully baked and tender, carefully slice each one open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the insides, creating a soft base to hold your toppings.
- Assemble Loaded Potatoes: Spoon a dollop of sour cream inside each potato, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Top with the sautéed shrimp, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
- Enhance your loaded potato by adding steamed broccoli or drizzling ranch dressing over the top.
