Loaded Baked Potato with Steak

 Loaded Baked Potato with Steak: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe (2000-Word Guide)

There are few dishes more satisfying than a warm, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside baked potato. But when you take that simple comfort food and elevate it with juicy, seared steak, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a variety of toppings, you get something truly exceptional: the Loaded Baked Potato with Steak. This dish is hearty, indulgent, and endlessly customizable, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special treat.

In this 2000-word guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process—from choosing the right potatoes and steak cut, to seasoning, baking, grilling, and assembling the ultimate loaded baked potato stack.

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What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

For the Baked Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• Coarse sea salt

For the Steak:

• 1 lb ribeye, sirloin, or NY strip steak (room temperature)

• Salt and black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup chopped green onions or chives

• ½ cup caramelized onions (optional)

• 1 avocado, diced (optional)

• Hot sauce or steak sauce (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sauteed mushrooms

• Blue cheese crumbles

• Roasted garlic

• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)

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Step 1: Choose the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal because they have thick skins that crisp up beautifully and a starchy interior that becomes fluffy when baked. Choose large, evenly-sized potatoes for a consistent bake.

1. Scrub potatoes clean under running water and pat dry.

2. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape.

3. Rub potatoes with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle generously with sea salt.

4. Place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, depending on size. They are done when the skins are crisp and the inside is soft (check with a fork or by gently squeezing the middle).

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Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Steak

A good steak is the centerpiece of this dish. Ribeye gives a rich, marbled flavor, while sirloin or strip steak offers leaner but still flavorful options.

1. Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper. Let it rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking.

2. Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat until very hot.

3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place the steak in the pan.

Sear without moving for 2-4 minutes per side (depending on thickness and desired doneness):

• Rare: 120-125°F

• Medium Rare: 130-135°F

• Medium: 140-145°F

4. Add butter, garlic, and rosemary/thyme to the pan in the last 2 minutes.

5. Baste the steak with the melted butter mixture by spooning it over the top repeatedly.

6. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5-10 minutes.

7. Slice thinly against the grain for the most tender results.

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Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

While the steak is resting and potatoes are finishing in the oven, prepare your toppings.

• Bacon: Fry or bake until crispy, then chop or crumble.

• Cheese: Grate fresh cheddar or use your favorite cheese blend.

• Caramelized Onions: Slowly cook onions in butter over low heat for 20-30 minutes.

• Avocado: Dice and lightly salt.

• Green Onions/Chives: Chop finely.

• Sour Cream: Set in a serving bowl for easy access.

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Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Baked Potato with Steak

Once everything is cooked and ready, it’s time to build your masterpiece.

1. Remove potatoes from the oven and slice each one open lengthwise.

2. Use a fork to gently fluff the interior, adding a little butter or salt if desired.

3. Add cheese first so it melts into the hot potato.

4. Top with a generous scoop of sliced steak.

5. Sprinkle on crumbled bacon.

6. Add a dollop of sour cream.

7. Finish with your chosen toppings: green onions, caramelized onions, avocado, etc.

8. Add a dash of hot sauce or steak sauce if you like heat or tang.

Each potato becomes a fully loaded, flavor-packed meal.

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Tips for the Perfect Steak Potato

• Room Temperature Steak: Helps cook the steak evenly.

• Rest the Meat: Essential for juicy, tender steak.

• Crispy Potato Skins: Don’t skip the olive oil and salt rub before baking.

• Cheese on First: It melts better this way and adds gooey texture.

• Balance the Flavors: Mix creamy (sour cream, cheese), savory (steak, bacon), and fresh (green onion, avocado).

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Variations

• Southwestern Style: Add black beans, corn, pepper jack cheese, and salsa.

• Philly Cheesesteak Style: Use thin-sliced steak, provolone cheese, sauteed bell peppers and onions.

• Breakfast Version: Swap steak for breakfast sausage and top with a fried egg.

• BBQ Style: Drizzle BBQ sauce over steak, use sharp cheddar and add coleslaw.

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Make Ahead & Storage

• Potatoes: Can be baked a day ahead. Reheat in oven at 350°F wrapped in foil.

• Steak: Best fresh, but can be cooked, sliced, and reheated gently.

• Toppings: Prep in advance and store in airtight containers.

Storage: Assemble only what you need. Leftovers should be kept separate to maintain texture.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans.

• Serve with a cold beer, iced tea, or a glass of red wine.

• For parties, set up a Loaded Potato Bar with toppings for guests to build their own.

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Nutrition Estimate (Per Loaded Potato)

• Calories: 850-1000

• Protein: 35-45g

• Carbs: 60g

• Fat: 45-55g

This varies depending on the amount of steak and toppings used.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines comfort food with rich, savory steakhouse flavors.

• Extremely satisfying and customizable.

• Impressive presentation for guests.

• One of the best uses for leftover steak or potatoes.

• Great for all seasons, especially fall and winter.

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Final Thoughts

The Loaded Baked Potato with Steak is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable and luxurious meal. With crispy potato skin, gooey cheese, succulent steak, and endless topping possibilities, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you're making a special dinner for two or preparing a full platter for guests, this recipe brings comfort, flavor, and wow-factor to the table.