Introduction

Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites is a hearty and flavorful meal that combines tender steak pieces with creamy, cheesy potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for weeknights. Enjoy the rich parmesan cream sauce and bold Cajun seasoning for a delicious twist on classic loaded potatoes.

A white plate holds a baked potato split open with its soft, pale yellow inside showing under the brown, slightly crispy skin. On top, there are several dark brown crispy cubes that appear seared and textured, placed evenly across the potato. A light tan creamy sauce with specks of herbs covers the potato and cubes, dripping slightly onto the plate. Fresh green chopped parsley is sprinkled over the dish, adding a touch of color contrast. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes (scrubbed clean and patted dry)

4 tablespoons olive oil

1.5 tablespoons sea salt (for baked potato skins)

2 lbs steak (NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin)

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 tablespoons garlic, minced (about 8-10 cloves)

6 tablespoons butter, softened

2 tablespoons Cajun seasonings (low sodium preferred)

4 tablespoons avocado oil, divided

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

2/3 cup parmesan, grated

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

2 wedges lemon, juice of

1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt evenly on all sides. Place them on the prepared pan without poking holes, and bake for 50-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3: While the potatoes bake, prepare the steak. Trim off any excess fat or silver skin and cut the steak into 2-inch pieces. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.

Step 4: Coat the steak bites generously with Cajun seasoning.

Step 5: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a cast iron or regular skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden brown. Flip once and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional minute. Push the steak to one side of the pan.

Step 7: Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the empty side of the pan. Sauté until fragrant, then toss the steak bites in the garlic butter to coat well. Cook for another minute.

Step 8: Remove the steak from the pan and place in a bowl, tented with foil to keep warm and moist.

Step 9: In the same pan, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and the remaining 1 tablespoon garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

Step 10: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Allow the sauce to reduce for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 11: Stir in red pepper flakes and parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Off the heat, add the parsley and lemon juice.

Step 12: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and drop each potato from about 12 inches above the pan to loosen the inside.

Step 13: Cut the potatoes down the center and fluff the insides with a fork, mixing in the remaining butter to make them creamy.

Step 14: Evenly spoon the steak bites into each potato, then drizzle with the parmesan cream sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use avocado oil for cooking steak because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Adjust the Cajun seasoning level to control the heat to your preference.

Substitute the parsley with chives or green onions for a different fresh herbal note.

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream but expect a thinner sauce.

Consider topping with crispy bacon bits or shredded cheddar for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they have a fluffy interior perfect for stuffing, but Yukon Gold can work as a creamier alternative. Avoid waxy potatoes, which won’t fluff as well.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked properly?

Steak bites should have a golden crust on the outside and be juicy inside. Cooking times vary with thickness but about 4-5 minutes total over medium-high heat is typical for medium doneness. Adjust cooking time to your preferred level of doneness.