Introduction

Combine the hearty comfort of a baked potato with the indulgent flavors of a classic steak and cheese sandwich in this Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potato recipe. Tender, juicy steak, gooey melted cheese, and savory toppings make these potatoes a complete meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites!

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Steak Filling:

• 1 pound steak (ribeye, sirloin, or your preferred cut), thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Crumbled bacon
• Additional shredded cheese

Directions

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Scrub the potatoes clean, then prick them all over with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Bake:
   • Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Steak Filling

1. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Steak:
   • Add the steak slices and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine and Season:
   • Return the steak to the skillet, add the Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Make the Roux:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute.
2. Add Milk:
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Cheese:
   • Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Potatoes

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Cut a slit down the center of each baked potato and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
2. Add the Filling:
   • Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture into each potato.
3. Top with Cheese Sauce:
   • Drizzle the cheese sauce generously over the steak filling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Toppings:
   • Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or additional cheese as desired.
2. Serve:
   • Serve warm and enjoy your loaded baked potato masterpiece!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Pair these loaded baked potatoes with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Offer a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their potato.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.

Variations

1. Chicken Philly Potato:
   • Replace the steak with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter option.
2. Spicy Steak Potato:
   • Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
3. Vegetarian Loaded Potato:
   • Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini instead of steak.
4. BBQ Steak Potato:
   • Toss the steak with your favorite barbecue sauce before filling the potatoes.
5. Breakfast Potato:
   • Top with scrambled eggs and crumbled sausage for a hearty breakfast version.

Conclusion

Loaded Steak and Cheese Baked Potatoes are the perfect combination of comfort food and indulgence. With tender baked potatoes, savory steak, flavorful veggies, and creamy cheese sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering, these potatoes will leave everyone satisfied and craving more!

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover steak?
Yes! Thinly slice your leftover steak and heat it with the sautéed vegetables for a quick version.

2. Can I bake the potatoes in the microwave?
Yes, cook each potato in the microwave for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then finish them in the oven for crispy skin.

3. What’s the best steak to use?
Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work best for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling and cheese sauce in advance. Reheat them and bake the potatoes fresh before assembling.

5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts better and makes the sauce smoother.

Enjoy making and devouring this hearty, satisfying dish—it’s a delicious upgrade to classic baked potatoes! 🥔🥩🧀✨