Loaded Baked Potato with Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Introduction:

Few meals hit the comfort-food sweet spot like a Loaded Baked Potato — but when you top it with tender, juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites, it becomes a full, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend indulgence. This recipe pairs crisp-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside baked potatoes with flavorful steak bites coated in rich garlic butter, making every bite crave-worthy.

Origin:

Baked potatoes have long been a comfort food staple in American and British cuisine, often served loaded with butter, sour cream, cheese, and bacon. Steak bites, a popular steakhouse-inspired dish, offer all the richness of steak in a quicker, easier-to-cook format. Together, they form a fusion of hearty, casual cuisine perfect for a filling main course.

Ingredients:

For the Loaded Baked Potatoes:

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt (for skin)

For the Toppings:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional for inside the potato)

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

  • 1.5 lbs (700 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Ingredients/Substitutes:

  • Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
  • Use sweet potatoes for a more nutrient-dense base.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra richness.
  • Use blue cheese or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.
  • For steak alternatives: try chicken bites or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian spin.

Instructions:

1. Bake the Potatoes:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Scrub potatoes, prick with a fork, rub with olive oil and salt.
  3. Bake directly on the oven rack for 50–60 minutes, or until fork-tender.

2. Cook the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

  1. While potatoes are baking, pat steak cubes dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat.
  3. Add steak bites in a single layer (in batches if needed) and sear for 1–2 minutes per side. Do not overcrowd.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
  5. Stir the steak bites in the garlic butter for another 1–2 minutes. Finish with chopped parsley.

3. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:

  1. Slice open each baked potato and fluff the inside with a fork.
  2. Add butter (optional), cheese, sour cream, and crumbled bacon.
  3. Top generously with garlic butter steak bites.
  4. Finish with green onions and serve hot.

Tips for Success:

  • Let steak rest at room temperature before cooking for even browning.
  • Use a hot skillet and avoid crowding for proper sear on the steak.
  • Choose russet potatoes for their fluffy interior when baked.
  • Adjust garlic in the butter to your preference—go big for extra flavor!

Recommendations:

  • Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
  • Make it party-friendly: serve steak bites and mini baked potatoes as appetizers.
  • Great for meal prepping — just store components separately and reheat before assembling.

Nutrition (per serving, 1 loaded potato + steak bites):

  • Calories: 690
  • Fat: 38g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Net Carbs: 38g
    (Nutrition will vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.)

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