Description
Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites
A Hearty Dish That Combines Comfort and Gourmet Flavors!
This loaded baked potato topped with tender steak bites and a creamy sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Perfect for a satisfying dinner!
Ingredients:
For the Baked Potatoes:
2 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
For the Steak Bites:
1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes, pierce them with a fork, and rub with olive oil and salt.
Bake directly on the oven rack for 50-60 minutes, or until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender.
Prepare the Steak Bites:
Season the steak pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and juicy.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
Slice the baked potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork. Top with steak bites and drizzle generously with the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish!
Pro Tip: For an extra touch, add shredded cheese or crumbled bacon to your potato!
Enjoy your Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites—a deliciously filling meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly scrub potatoes. Pierce each 6-8 times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and a generous pinch of salt. Place directly on the center oven rack with a baking sheet on the rack below to catch drips.
2. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes. Potatoes are done when the skin is crisp and a fork inserts easily into the center.
3. Cook the Steak: While potatoes bake, pat steak bites very dry with paper towels. Season. Heat oil in a skillet until shimmering. Add steak in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side for medium. Remove and let rest.
4. Make Sauce & Assemble: Combine all sauce ingredients. Split baked potatoes open, fluff with a fork, and season lightly. Top with steak bites, drizzle with sauce, and garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal, but for a larger spread, pair it with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. For a casual game-day twist, serve the steak bites and sauce as a dip alongside the potato.
How-to Summary
Bake seasoned russet potatoes at 400°F until tender. Sear seasoned sirloin bites in a hot skillet. Mix sour cream, mayo, paprika, and garlic for the sauce. Split potatoes, top with steak and sauce, then garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time? Yes. Bake potatoes, let them cool, and refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes before assembling.
What other cuts of steak work well? Ribeye offers great flavor, while tenderloin is exceptionally tender. Sirloin provides the best balance of flavor, tenderness, and value.
How do I get my steak bites extra crispy? Ensure the steak is very dry before seasoning and make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the meat. Do not move them during the first 2 minutes of searing.
Can I make a lighter sauce? Absolutely. Substitute full-fat sour cream and mayo with Greek yogurt or light versions. The flavor profile will be slightly tangier but still delicious.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat components separately if possible. Warm steak bites gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking. Reheat the potato in the oven or microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not piercing the potato deeply enough, which can cause it to burst in the oven.
- Overcrowding the skillet with steak bites, which steams them instead of creating a proper sear.
- Cutting the steak while it’s still hot from the skillet. Let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Using cold sour cream straight from the fridge for the sauce. Let it sit out briefly for a smoother, more blendable consistency.
Conclusion
This Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites successfully elevates a classic comfort food into a restaurant-quality meal. The combination of the crispy potato, juicy steak, and smoky, creamy sauce is consistently satisfying. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, hearty dish that is surprisingly straightforward to master. It’s the perfect recipe for a special weeknight dinner or for impressing guests with minimal fuss.