If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the hearty comfort of a baked potato with the rich, savory goodness of perfectly seared steak, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe. Imagine tender, fluffy potatoes with crisp, salty skins serving as a grand stage for juicy steak bites, all smothered in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce that’s kissed with garlic and a touch of lemon brightness. This dish is a celebration of textures and bold flavors that feels both indulgent and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with something unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to create that wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Each plays a special role in building the layers—from the crisp, sea salt-rubbed skins of the russet potatoes to the perfectly seasoned and seared steak bites, finishing with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce that brings everything together.
- 4 large russet potatoes: Their starchy interior becomes perfectly fluffy when baked, ideal for stuffing.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create those irresistibly crispy potato skins with sea salt.
- 1.5 tablespoons sea salt for potato skins: Adds a beautiful crunch and savory punch to the potatoes.
- 2 lbs steak (NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin): Choose your favorite cut for juicy, flavorful steak bites.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the steak perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Provides aromatic depth both in the steak and the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons low sodium Cajun seasoning: Adds a smoky, spicy kick that elevates the steak.
- 4 tablespoons avocado oil, divided: Its high smoke point ensures a great sear on the steak without burning.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The base of the velvety Parmesan cream sauce.
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan: Adds a nutty, savory richness to the cream sauce.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
- Juice of 2 lemon wedges: Adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness of the cream sauce.
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity to both steak and sauce.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step sets you up for those perfectly baked potatoes with crispy skins.
Step 2: Bake the Potatoes
Rub each russet potato generously with olive oil, then sprinkle them with sea salt to ensure a flavorful, crispy skin. Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until they are tender when pierced with a fork. This slow baking process transforms the potato’s interior to fluffy perfection while locking in moisture.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Steak Bites
While the potatoes bake, cut your steak into bite-sized pieces. Toss the steak pieces with kosher salt and Cajun seasoning to infuse every bite with smoky, spicy flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic and cook briefly to release its fragrance. Add the steak bites and sear until browned and cooked to your desired doneness—this will only take a few minutes per side.
Step 4: Whip Up the Parmesan Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt some butter with minced garlic until fragrant. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir gently until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully into a creamy, tangy delight.
Step 5: Assemble Your Loaded Baked Potatoes
Once potatoes are done, carefully slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork to create pockets for filling. Stuff each potato with a generous amount of steak bites, then drench everything in that heavenly Parmesan cream sauce. The combination of textures and bold flavors in this final step really makes your Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe shine.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and deepen the flavor, sprinkle fresh minced parsley or chopped chives on top just before serving. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few shreds of sharp cheddar cheese for extra indulgence that your guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This hearty main pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli, or even a tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. Choose sides that add freshness and balance to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the loaded potatoes open-faced on rustic wooden boards for a casual dinner vibe or plate elegantly with a drizzle of extra Parmesan cream sauce and a lemon wedge on the side for guests who love a zesty finish. You can also serve steak bites separately for a shared family-style dining experience, letting everyone build their own potato masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover loaded baked potatoes in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This will allow the flavors to meld even more, although the potatoes may lose some crispness once reheated.
Freezing
While the components are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the steak bites and cream sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Potatoes freeze less well due to texture changes but can be frozen if tightly wrapped and reheated carefully.
Reheating
Reheat the potatoes in a 350°F oven until warmed through to help retain the crispy skin. Warm the steak bites and Parmesan sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, so you don’t lose that creamy consistency or dry out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because of their fluffy interior and sturdy skin, but you can try Yukon Gold if you prefer a creamier texture. Keep in mind that other potatoes might not crisp up the same way.
What cuts of steak work best for steak bites?
NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin are all excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor. Choose well-marbled cuts for juicy steak bites that stay tender during quick cooking.
Is the Parmesan cream sauce difficult to make?
Not at all! It’s a simple sauce that comes together quickly with just a few ingredients. The key is to cook the garlic gently and whisk the cream and cheese slowly so the sauce thickens smoothly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast, but the flavor and texture will be different from the original.
How spicy is the cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes?
The cajun seasoning provides a nice smoky heat, while the red pepper flakes add subtle, adjustable spice—you can reduce or omit the flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s bound to become a fast favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those potatoes and that steak, and dive right in—you’re about to enjoy a seriously delicious meal that’s as satisfying as it is impressive.
Print
Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites recipe combines tender, perfectly seasoned steak pieces with fluffy baked potatoes and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. The dish is elevated with garlic, Cajun spices, and fresh parsley, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons sea salt for baked potato skins
Steak Bites
- 2 lbs steak (NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasonings (low sodium)
- 4 tablespoons avocado oil, divided
Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 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
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prepare for baking the potatoes.
- Prepare the potatoes: Rub each of the scrubbed russet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt over the skins. Place them on the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the potatoes: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Prepare the steak: While potatoes bake, cut the steak into bite-sized pieces. Season with kosher salt and Cajun seasoning to infuse flavor.
- Cook the steak bites: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and steak pieces, cooking until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Parmesan cream sauce: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, add grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice from wedges, fresh parsley, freshly cracked pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Assemble the dish: Once the potatoes are done, carefully cut them open and fluff the insides with a fork. Stuff the potatoes generously with the cooked steak bites and drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the top.
Notes
- Use a fork to test potato doneness—a fork should slide easily through the potato without resistance.
- Steak cuts like NY strip or ribeye offer great flavor and tenderness but sirloin or tenderloin work well too.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your preferred spice level.
- The Parmesan cream sauce can be prepared in advance and gently reheated if needed.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
