If you are craving a meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly straightforward, the Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites and Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe will quickly become your go-to dinner. This dish brings together tender, juicy steak bites seasoned just right, nestled atop fluffy, perfectly baked russet potatoes, all smothered in a rich and luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites and Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe, you’ll want fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend perfectly to deliver outstanding flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Each element plays a key role, from the creamy sauce to the crispy skin of the potatoes and the savory steak bites.
- Russet potatoes: Large and starchy, they bake up fluffy inside with a crisp skin for the perfect base.
- Olive oil & sea salt: Adds crispy texture and enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor.
- Steak (NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin): Tender, juicy cuts provide hearty bites that soak up seasoning beautifully.
- Cajun seasoning: Brings a spicy, aromatic kick to the steak bites, balancing the richness.
- Avocado oil & butter: Used for cooking the steak and potatoes, they add luscious creaminess and flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the steak and sauce with fragrant depth.
- Heavy cream: The base for the silky Parmesan cream sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for that sharp, nutty flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
- Lemon juice: A splash brightens up the rich cream sauce perfectly.
- Red pepper flakes & freshly cracked pepper: Give mild heat and seasoning that awaken the palate.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites and Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Rub each russet potato thoroughly with olive oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt, making sure every side is covered. This seasoning creates a wonderfully crispy skin. Bake the potatoes directly on the sheet for about 50-60 minutes until they’re tender all the way through—you’ll know they’re done when a fork slides in without resistance.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Steak Bites
While the potatoes bake, trim any excess fat from your chosen steak and cut it into roughly 2-inch pieces. Drizzle with avocado oil and coat liberally with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well seasoned. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Sear the steak bites for about 2 minutes on one side without moving them to get a lovely golden crust, then flip and cook them another minute. Lower the heat and cook for an additional minute so they reach perfect tenderness.
Step 3: Infuse Garlic Butter with the Steak
Move the steak to one side of the pan, then add softened butter and minced garlic to the empty side. Let the garlic cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then toss the steak bites in the buttery garlic goodness. This step makes the steak irresistible, coating each bite with rich, aromatic flavor. Once ready, remove the steak bites and tent them with foil to stay warm.
Step 4: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add more butter and the remaining garlic to sauté briefly. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken for 3-5 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until your sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Finish it off by folding in freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness that cuts through the richness.
Step 5: Finish the Potatoes and Assemble
Once your potatoes are baked and tender, lift each one about 12 inches off the pan and drop them down onto the parchment paper to fluff up the insides. Cut them down the center lengthwise and gently fluff the flesh with a fork. Spread a bit of butter inside each potato to add richness and moisture. Top each with generous portions of steak bites and pour the Parmesan cream sauce all over for that perfect, loaded finish.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites and Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a delightful pop of green that brightens the plate visually and refreshes your palate. For a little extra flair, consider a pinch more red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for richness.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads featuring tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli add color, nutrition, and a fresh crunch that complements the loaded potatoes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate your presentation, try slicing the baked potatoes slightly thinner and fanning them out on the plate before spooning the steak bites and sauce over. Alternatively, serve the steak bites and cream sauce on the side so guests can customize their load, or even use mini potatoes for appetizer-sized servings perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover potatoes and steak bites separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain texture and flavor without becoming soggy or overcooked.
Freezing
While steak bites and sauce freeze well, baked potatoes can become watery after thawing. For best results, freeze the steak bites and Parmesan cream sauce only, then reheat and serve fresh potatoes alongside.
Reheating
Gently reheat steak bites and cream sauce in a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce breaking. Warm leftover potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crisp skin and fluffy interior.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, and tenderloin work best for tender steak bites, you can also try flank or skirt steak if sliced thinly and cooked properly for great flavor.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to the steak bites?
You can substitute the steak bites with grilled mushrooms or seared tofu cubes seasoned with the same Cajun spices to capture a similar smoky and spicy essence.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate spice level, but you can always adjust the amount or choose a mild blend to suit your heat preference perfectly.
Can I make the Parmesan cream sauce dairy-free?
Yes, try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative for a creamy, dairy-free version of the sauce.
How can I tell when the potatoes are fully baked?
Simply pierce the largest potato with a fork or skewer; it should slide in easily without resistance, indicating soft, fluffy insides ready for loading.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites and Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe that balances simplicity with luxurious flavors. This dish brings warmth and comfort to the table while impressing with its rich textures and layered tastes. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly it becomes a family favorite that everyone looks forward to!
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Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites and Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites is a hearty and flavorful family favorite featuring perfectly baked russet potatoes topped with tender Cajun-seasoned steak bites and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This satisfying meal combines crispy baked potatoes, juicy steak cooked in garlic butter, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with a touch of spice and fresh herbs, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons sea salt
For the Steak Bites
- 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, adjust salt accordingly)
- 4 tablespoons avocado oil, divided
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
- 2 wedges lemon, juice of
- 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle all sides with sea salt. Place them on the prepared pan and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a fork can easily pierce through and the potatoes are tender inside.
- Prepare and Cook the Steak: Trim excess fat from the steak and cut it into 2-inch pieces. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and coat liberally with Cajun seasoning for robust flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a cast iron or regular skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Add the seasoned steak pieces to the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until the bottom forms a golden crust. Flip the steak pieces and cook for an additional 1 minute. Then reduce the heat to low and cook for another minute for even doneness.
- Make Garlic Butter and Finish Cooking Steak: Move the steak to one side of the pan. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the empty side and sauté until fragrant. Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter mixture and cook for an additional minute. Remove the steak bites and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Prepare Parmesan Cream Sauce: In the same pan, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and the remaining 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce reduce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in minced parsley and fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Finish the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, remove from the oven and carefully lift each potato about 12 inches off the pan and drop it back to fluff the insides. Cut the potatoes down the center and open them up. Fluff the insides with a fork and spread with the remaining butter for added richness.
- Assemble and Serve: Top each fluffed baked potato with the garlic butter steak bites and generously drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the top. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve immediately for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for best searing results on the steak bites.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and salt according to taste and dietary preference, especially if using low-sodium options.
- The lemon juice in the sauce adds a fresh brightness that balances the richness of the cream and butter.
- For a smoother sauce, grate the Parmesan finely before adding.
- Allow potatoes to rest a few minutes after baking for easier handling and better fluffing.
