Looking for the perfect comfort food to satisfy your cravings? A Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato is a savory, satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Packed with tender steak, melted cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, this recipe transforms a humble baked potato into a hearty meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or preparing a weekend treat, this loaded baked potato is the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients for Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 lb steak, sliced into strips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by washing the baking potatoes thoroughly and pricking them with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 1 hour, or until they are soft when pierced with a fork. Once baked, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Steak
While the potatoes are baking, heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the steak strips to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the steak to your preferred level of doneness, typically around 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for well-done steak. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Assemble the Dish
Once your potatoes have cooled enough to handle, carefully cut them open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork to create a soft base for the toppings. Add a generous dollop of sour cream inside each potato, and then top with the cooked steak strips. Sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the steak. The combination of steak, cheese, and sour cream creates the perfect creamy and savory base for your loaded potatoes.
4. Melt the Cheese
Return the loaded potatoes to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. This quick step ensures the cheese melts evenly over the steak and sour cream, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted, remove the loaded potatoes from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately while the potatoes are hot and the cheese is gooey.
Why You’ll Love Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato
- Hearty and Filling: The steak, cheese, and sour cream turn a simple potato into a meal in itself, making it a satisfying dinner or lunch.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings to make the dish your own. Some ideas include sautéed onions, bacon bits, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together with minimal effort, yet the flavors are rich and indulgent, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your own cravings.
- Comfort Food: This loaded baked potato is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of savory goodness!
Serving Suggestions for Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato
- Pair with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the potatoes with a light, refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Add Some Veggies: Pair the potatoes with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve with a Drink: Complement this hearty dish with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing iced tea.
Tips for Perfect Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato
- Choose the Right Potato: Russet potatoes work best for baking as they have a fluffy interior and crispy skin when baked.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Steak can become tough and dry if overcooked. For juicy, tender steak, keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Top with Extra Toppings: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or jalapeños to amp up the flavor.
- Reheat Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes! You can use other cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak. Just be sure to slice it thin for easy eating.
Can I make these in advance?
While it’s best to bake the potatoes fresh for a crispy skin, you can prepare the steak ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to assemble.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms, grilled vegetables, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato is the perfect blend of hearty, savory, and creamy flavors. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that turns a classic baked potato into a full meal. With tender steak, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy topping, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend treat, it’s an easy-to-make, satisfying choice that everyone will love!