This loaded baked potato is a warm and filling treat topped with juicy steak bites, sour cream, and cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you’re feeling extra hungry!
Who can resist all that cheesy goodness? I love how you can throw everything together in one meal—no fuss, just deliciousness. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress friends! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for baking because of their fluffy interior. If you can’t find Russets, Yukon Gold potatoes can work too, as they have a creamy texture when baked.
Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are delicious options for this recipe. If you’re on a budget, consider using flank steak or even ground beef. Both will still give you a tasty result!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix it up a bit! Try a blend of Monterey Jack or even some pepper jack for a little kick. Dairy-free cheese alternatives are also available if you prefer.
Sour Cream: If sour cream isn’t your thing, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute! You can also try ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.
Bacon: Bacon bits add a nice crunch. For a vegetarian option, try crispy fried onions or even mushrooms sautéed in olive oil. They add a great umami flavor!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Fluffy Baked Potatoes?
Fluffy baked potatoes begin with the right baking method, and it’s easier than you think! Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes cook evenly.
- Poke holes in the potatoes using a fork. This lets steam escape and prevents them from bursting in the oven.
- Scrub the potatoes and coat them lightly with olive oil and salt. This step helps create a crispy skin.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack, not on a baking sheet, for better air circulation.
- Bake for about 45-60 minutes. You can check if they’re ready by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily!
Following these steps will guarantee a soft inside and crispy skin, making your loaded baked potatoes even more delicious!
Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Potatoes:
- 2 large baking potatoes (Russet recommended)
For the Steak Bites:
- 8 oz (225 g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or your choice), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for sour cream sauce)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp cooked and crumbled bacon or bacon bits (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 45-60 minutes to bake. In total, plan for about an hour to enjoy your hearty loaded baked potatoes with steak bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean under running water, then poke a few holes in each potato with a fork. Rub a little olive oil and sprinkle salt all over the potatoes. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the skins are crispy and the insides are soft.
2. Prepare the Steak Bites:
While the potatoes are baking, you can prepare your steak bites. In a bowl, toss the steak cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated. This adds great flavor to the meat.
3. Sear the Steak:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the steak bites and sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the steak aside.
4. Make the Sour Cream Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it) and black pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed, then set it aside.
5. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are done baking, carefully take them out of the oven and slice them open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the insides gently. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese inside each potato.
6. Add the Steak:
Top each cheese-filled potato with the seared steak bites you prepared earlier. Don’t be shy—we want all that savory goodness!
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
Now, drizzle the sour cream sauce over the steak and potato. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits (if using) over the top.
8. Melt the Cheese:
If you want even more melty cheese, pop the loaded potatoes back in the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Take them out of the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve hot. Dig into your delicious, hearty loaded baked potato with savory steak bites! It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger!
This recipe combines fluffy baked potatoes with juicy, flavorful steak and delightful toppings for a meal that feels special yet is easy to prepare. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While Russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes can work well too, offering a creamy interior when baked.
How Can I Use Leftover Steak?
If you have leftover steak, simply cut it into bite-sized pieces and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can then add it directly on top of your loaded potatoes!
What If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
No problem! You can skip it entirely or replace it with a splash of soy sauce or a dash of lemon juice for some tangy flavor in the sour cream sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the loaded potatoes in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding extra sour cream or cheese if desired!