Description Succulent Garlic Butter Steak Bites nestled within a steakhouse-style baked potato, generously smothered in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. Picture this: tender steak bites, pan-seared to perfection in a cast iron skillet, sizzling in a fragrant garlic butter pan sauce. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. These delectable steak bites are then lovingly tucked into a fluffy, steaming hot baked potato, their savory juices mingling with the potato’s earthy flavor. Finally, the pièce de résistance – a generous drizzle of warm parmesan cream sauce, cascading over the steak and potato, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. This is comfort food elevated, a culinary masterpiece that’s both hearty and elegant. Cozy, satisfying dinners simply don’t get any better than this! It’s perfect for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or simply when you crave a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
- Produce:
- 2 tablespoons Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Parsley, fresh, chopped
- 4 Russet potatoes, large, scrubbed clean
- Condiments:
- 2 Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Baking & Spices:
- 4 tablespoons Avocado oil (or other high-heat oil)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly cracked
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 ½ tablespoons Sea salt (for baking potatoes)
- Oils & Vinegars:
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- Dairy:
- 6 tablespoons Butter, unsalted
- 1 ½ cups Heavy cream
- ⅔ cup Parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, thoroughly scrub the russet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Next, prepare the potatoes for baking. Using a fork, pierce each potato several times. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from exploding.
Rub the potatoes generously with olive oil and sprinkle them with sea salt. The olive oil helps to create a crispy skin, while the sea salt enhances the potato’s natural flavor.
Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack. Baking them directly on the rack allows for better air circulation, resulting in a crispier skin. Bake for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork and feel soft when squeezed.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the steak bites. Choose your preferred cut of steak, such as NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin. Aim for a thickness of about 1-1.5 inches. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch in size. In a small bowl, combine the avocado oil, Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Add the steak bites to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Allow the steak bites to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak bites to the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and prevent the steak from searing properly.
Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep them warm.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Pan Sauce
In the same skillet you used to sear the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and allow the cream to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet with the parmesan cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the steak bites evenly with the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each potato lengthwise, creating a deep pocket.
Fluff the inside of each potato with a fork. Spoon a generous amount of the garlic butter steak bites into the pocket of each baked potato.
Drizzle the parmesan cream sauce over the steak bites and potato. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing, if desired.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several irresistible reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender, savory steak bites, fluffy baked potatoes, and creamy parmesan sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The garlic butter pan sauce adds a layer of richness and depth that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
- Hearty and Satisfying: This recipe is incredibly filling and satisfying, making it the perfect choice for a comforting and substantial meal. It’s a complete meal in itself, providing protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
- Customizable: Feel free to adapt this recipe to your liking. Use your favorite cut of steak, add different toppings like bacon bits, sour cream, or chives, and adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: The loaded baked potatoes are visually appealing, making them ideal for serving to guests or for a special occasion. The presentation is restaurant-worthy, but the recipe is easy enough to make at home.
- Comfort Food at its Finest: This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s warm, cozy, and satisfying, providing a sense of nostalgia and pure culinary bliss.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
- Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, bacon bits, chives, or shredded cheese, for guests to customize their potatoes.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Serve lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the steak bites and potato.
Tips:
- Choose potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes.
- Don’t overbake the potatoes, or they will become dry and mushy.
- Pat the steak dry before searing to ensure a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak, or it will steam instead of sear.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best searing results.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- For a richer sauce, use full-fat heavy cream.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese fresh for the best flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 850-950
- Protein: 50-60g
- Sodium: 1200-1400mg (depending on seasoning and added salt)
Conclusion:
The Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, creates lasting memories, and leaves you feeling completely satisfied. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, and the recipe is easy enough for even novice cooks to master. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and prepare to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds. This recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends, and it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe? While russet potatoes are traditionally used for baked potatoes due to their fluffy texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes will have a slightly creamier texture, while sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness to the dish. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on the type of potato you choose.
- What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? Can I use a regular frying pan? A cast iron skillet is ideal for searing steak because it retains heat exceptionally well, resulting in a beautiful crust. However, if you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel frying pan. Make sure the pan is preheated properly before adding the steak bites to ensure a good sear. Avoid using non-stick pans, as they don’t typically get hot enough for searing.
- Can I make the parmesan cream sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the parmesan cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, gently reheat the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick during storage, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- I’m not a fan of Cajun seasoning. What else can I use to season the steak bites? If you’re not a fan of Cajun seasoning, you can substitute it with other spice blends or individual spices. Some alternatives include:
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper: A simple yet flavorful combination.
- Chili powder: For a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
- Montreal steak seasoning: A blend of coarsely ground spices that’s specifically designed for steak.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Some vegetables that would pair well with the steak bites and baked potatoes include:
- Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers.
- Sautéed mushrooms and onions: A classic combination that adds depth of flavor.
- Spinach or kale: Wilted in the garlic butter sauce for added nutrients.
- Corn on the cob: Grilled or roasted for a summery twist.
