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Title: Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites: The Ultimate Comfort Food Combination
There are few dishes as comforting and satisfying as a loaded baked potato—fluffy, tender inside with a crispy, golden skin, topped with all the goodies you can imagine. Now, imagine that classic baked potato, but with steak bites added on top—seared to perfection and packed with flavor. It’s a hearty, indulgent meal that combines the best of both worlds: the rich, savory flavor of steak and the creamy goodness of a loaded potato.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites is a showstopper that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, game day, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, filling meal. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dish in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
For the Loaded Baked Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- Olive oil (for rubbing)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional but highly recommended)
- 1/4 cup butter
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, rib-eye, or tenderloin work well), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, scrub your russet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Dry them off with a paper towel.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Rub the potatoes with a bit of olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. The oil will help crisp up the skin, while the seasoning enhances the flavor.
- Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the skins are golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Check for Doneness: Test the potatoes by poking them with a fork. If the fork easily slides in and out, they are done! Remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites
- Season the Steak: While the potatoes are baking, season your steak pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. This will give the steak a flavorful crust when seared.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Allow the oil to get hot and shimmer before adding the steak bites to the pan. This ensures a nice, quick sear on the meat.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Add the seasoned steak to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, or until the steak bites are golden brown and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for about 2 minutes per side.
- Rest the Steak: Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy and tender. If desired, garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes
- Cut and Fluff the Potatoes: Once the baked potatoes have cooled slightly, use a sharp knife to cut a slit down the center of each potato. Gen