Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites

Instructions

1. Bake the Potatoes

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub potatoes with  olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and pierce several times with a fork. Place directly on oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake 45–60 minutes, until tender inside and crisp outside.

2. Prepare Steak Bites

While potatoes bake, toss  steak cubes with smoked paprika, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites in batches until browned and cooked to your liking, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

4. Make Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Return steak bites to skillet and toss to coat. Remove from heat.

5. Assemble

Split baked potatoes open and fluff with a fork. Top each with butter (if using),  cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Pile garlic butter steak bites on top. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Crispy Potato Skin: Rub with oil and bake directly on the oven rack.

• Perfect Sear: Pat steak dry before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the pan.

• Steak Doneness: Cook to 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.

Variations

• Cheesy Swap: Use pepper jack, gouda, or blue cheese.

• Lighter Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use turkey bacon.

• Extra Veggies: Top with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled asparagus. A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the steak beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

• Store steak and potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

• Reheat potatoes in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

• Gently warm steak in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve tenderness.

Satisfying, savory, and seriously delicious—this loaded baked potato with steak bites is a full meal that feels like a celebration. Enjoy!