Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites 

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes under cold water, then dry them thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking.
3. Season: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. This helps to create a flavorful and crispy skin.
4. Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites

1. Season the Steak: In a bowl, combine the steak pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Heat a Skillet: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the Steak: Add the steak bites to the hot skillet in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness (medium-rare to medium works best).
4. Remove and Rest: Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling the dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes

1. Cut the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut a slit down the center of each potato, being cautious not to cut all the way through.
2. Fluff the Inside: Gently fluff the insides of the potatoes with a fork to create a nice base for the toppings.
3. Add Toppings: Start by adding a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the steak bites, crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and any other toppings you desire.
4. Finish with Sour Cream: Top each loaded potato with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions and parsley for added flavor and freshness.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Steak: While sirloin is a great choice, you can also use ribeye or filet mignon for an even more tender result.
• Bake Ahead of Time: You can bake the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them before adding the toppings for a quick meal.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add jalapeños, guacamole, or any of your favorite toppings to make these loaded potatoes your own.

Conclusion

The Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites is a fantastic dish that combines the best of comfort food with gourmet flair. This hearty meal is not only satisfying but also allows you to get creative with toppings to suit your taste. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. So grab some potatoes, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to this delicious and filling dish!