When it comes to hearty, satisfying dishes, few can compete with a loaded baked potato paired with tender steak bites. This classic dish brings together the perfect combination of textures and flavors — the creaminess of the potato, the savory richness of the steak, and the freshness of accompanying vegetables and toppings. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive meal to serve at your next dinner party or just want to indulge in a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe will meet all your expectations.
Our step-by-step guide will show you how to make the most delicious loaded baked potato with steak bites. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, you’ll be able to prepare this dish to perfection. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
To create the ultimate loaded baked potato, the selection and preparation of ingredients are crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the Baked Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes (scrubbed clean)
- Olive oil (for coating)
- Kosher salt (for seasoning)
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 pound of sirloin steak (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 strips of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- ½ cup of butter (room temperature)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites
1. Preparing the Baked Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the russet potatoes and, using a fork, poke several holes on all sides. This will allow steam to escape while the potatoes bake, preventing them from bursting. Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle generously with kosher salt. Place them directly on the middle oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Cooking the Steak Bites
While the potatoes are baking, it’s time to prepare the steak bites. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the steak cubes, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the steak is evenly coated.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside, covering with foil to keep warm.
3. Assembling the Loaded Baked Potatoes
Once the potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut a lengthwise slit down the center of each potato and gently press the ends to open them up.
Using a fork, fluff the insides of the potatoes, then add a generous spoonful of butter. Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper. Next, add shredded cheddar cheese while the potato is still hot, allowing the cheese to melt. Top with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
4. Adding the Steak Bites
Place a handful of the seared steak bites on top of each loaded baked potato. The combination of the juicy, tender steak and the creamy, cheesy potato filling is what elevates this dish to the next level.
Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potatoes
Choosing the Right Potato
When making loaded baked potatoes, always opt for large russet potatoes. Their starchy texture results in a fluffy interior, and the thick skin crisps up perfectly in the oven, providing the ideal base for your toppings.
Cooking the Potatoes
To ensure evenly baked potatoes, place them directly on the oven rack without wrapping them in foil. Foil traps moisture and results in steamed, rather than baked, potatoes. For a crispier skin, brush the potatoes with a bit of melted butter halfway through the baking process.
Perfecting the Steak Bites
Choosing the right cut of steak is important. We recommend using sirloin steak because it’s lean, flavorful, and easy to sear. Make sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender. For added flavor, you can deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine or beef broth after cooking the steak bites and drizzle this over the potatoes.
Delicious Variations to Try
If you want to switch up your loaded baked potatoes with steak bites, try these variations:
- Mushroom and Swiss: Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a rich, savory twist.
- Tex-Mex Style: Top with salsa, guacamole, and jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Style: Mix in barbecue sauce with the steak bites and add cheddar and fried onions for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a meal in itself, but you can also serve it with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. A glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a cold beer pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of this dish.
Conclusion
With the right ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can create a memorable loaded baked potato with steak bites that rivals any restaurant dish. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just indulging in a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.