Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe
The loaded baked potato is a classic dish that is both comforting and versatile. It serves as a perfect side or a main course when topped with delicious ingredients. By adding steak bites, you elevate this dish to a new level, transforming it into a satisfying meal that’s ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to weekend gatherings.
This recipe combines fluffy baked potatoes with tender steak bites, smothered in cheese, sour cream, chives, and crispy bacon. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this scrumptious loaded baked potato with steak bites!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and Prep Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Pierce the Potatoes: Using a fork, pierce each potato several times on all sides. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents the potatoes from bursting.
- Season the Potatoes: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites
- Prepare the Steak: While the potatoes are baking, take the sirloin steak and trim any excess fat. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size.
- Season the Steak: In a mixing bowl, combine the steak pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Steak Bites: Add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes without stirring to develop a nice sear. Then, flip the steak pieces and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is about 130°F or 54°C).
- Remove from Heat: Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes
- Check the Potatoes: After baking, check the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork. If it goes in easily, the potatoes are ready.
- Slice the Potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each potato lengthwise, creating an opening for the toppings.
- Fluff the Potatoes: Using a fork, gently fluff the inside of each potato to create a light and airy texture.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese into each potato. The heat from the potato will melt the cheese slightly.
- Top with Steak Bites: Divide the cooked steak bites evenly among the baked potatoes, placing them on top of the cheese.
- Add Bacon and Sour Cream: Spoon sour cream over the steak bites, followed by the crumbled bacon.
- Garnish: Finish with chopped chives or green onions and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if desired.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the loaded baked potatoes warm, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy this hearty dish. You can offer additional toppings, such as hot sauce, extra cheese, or guacamole, to customize each potato to individual tastes.
Tips for Perfect Loaded Baked Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for baking because they have a fluffy interior and a thick skin that holds up well to toppings. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or yellow potatoes for this dish.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Ensure the potatoes are baked until fully tender. Baking time can vary based on the size of the potatoes, so check them periodically.
- Searing Steak Bites: For maximum flavor, let the steak come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better searing.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure about the doneness of the steak, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should read 130°F (54°C); medium is around 140°F (60°C).
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or different types of cheese for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Loaded baked potatoes with steak bites can be enjoyed in various settings:
- Casual Family Dinner: Serve as a hearty main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Game Day Snack: Cut the baked potatoes into halves or quarters for easy serving during parties or gatherings.
- Meal Prep: Make several loaded potatoes in advance and reheat them for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
To store leftover loaded baked potatoes:
- Cool Completely: Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate: Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the potatoes in foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave Method: Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through, checking halfway through.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one loaded baked potato with steak bites (based on the recipe yielding 4 servings):
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional Benefits
Loaded baked potatoes with steak bites provide several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: The steak bites contribute a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
- Healthy Fats: Adding toppings like sour cream and cheese can contribute healthy fats and calcium.
Conclusion
Loaded baked potatoes with steak bites are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines comfort food with gourmet flair. With fluffy baked potatoes topped with juicy steak, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives, this dish is sure to please anyone at your table.
By following this detailed recipe, you can easily recreate this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy experimenting with toppings and flavors to make this dish your own, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe
The loaded baked potato is a classic dish that is both comforting and versatile. It serves as a perfect side or a main course when topped with delicious ingredients. By adding steak bites, you elevate this dish to a new level, transforming it into a satisfying meal that’s ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Baked Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- Optional: hot sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub the russet potatoes under running water and pat them dry.
Prick each potato several times with a fork, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until fork-tender. - Cook the Steak Bites:
While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Season the steak pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Once the skillet is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring to get a good sear.
Flip the steak bites and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and set aside. - Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Carefully slice each potato open lengthwise, fluffing the insides with a fork.
Divide the steak bites evenly among the potatoes, and top with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and sliced green onions. - Serve:
If desired, drizzle with hot sauce for extra flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy your loaded baked potatoes with steak bites!
Notes
- Steak Cut: You can use any steak cut you prefer, such as ribeye or tenderloin, for more tenderness.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace steak bites with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorites, such as jalapeños, avocado, or different types of cheese.