Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites Mouthwatering Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 2 sour cream
• 1 4 green onions, chopped
• 1 4 crispy bacon bits (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and poke several holes in each with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-55 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. While the potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil to the skillet. Season the steak cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side (for medium-rare) until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut a slit in the top of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to fluff the insides. Add a small pat of butter to each potato, and sprinkle with salt.
4. Spoon in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it melts into the fluffy potato interior. Top with the cooked steak bites. Add dollops of sour cream and sprinkle with green onions and crispy bacon bits if using.
5. Return the loaded potatoes to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese further, or serve immediately.