Introduction
Ready to indulge in a delightful and hearty meal? This recipe brings together perfectly baked potatoes and succulent steak, complemented by a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Baked Potatoes:
4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean and patted dry
4 tablespoons olive oil
1.5 tablespoons sea salt for potato skins
Steak:
2 pounds steak (NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (low sodium preferred)
4 tablespoons avocado oil, divided
Garlic Butter & Sauce:
2 tablespoons garlic, minced (about 8-10 cloves)
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1½ cups heavy cream
⅔ cup Parmesan, grated
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
Juice of 2 lemon wedges
½-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 45 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Baked Potatoes:
– Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
– Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated.
– Sprinkle sea salt generously over the potato skins.
– Place the potatoes on the prepared baking pan.
– Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Prepare the Steak:
– Trim any excess fat from the steak, if necessary.
– Cut the steak into 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
– Drizzle the steak pieces with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.
– Coat the steak generously with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
Cook the Steak:
– Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the steak pieces to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
– Flip the steak pieces and cook for an additional minute.
– Reduce the heat and continue to cook for an additional minute to reach desired doneness.
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
– Push the cooked steak to one side of the skillet to create space.
– Add 2 tablespoons of softened butter and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the empty side of the pan.
– Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
– Toss the steak in the garlic butter for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
– Remove the steak from the skillet and cover it with foil to keep warm.
Prepare the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
– In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter along with the remaining minced garlic.
– Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
– Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes.
– Stir in the red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan, and whisk until the sauce thickens.
– Remove the sauce from heat and add minced parsley and lemon juice, stirring well to combine.
Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes:
– Carefully drop each baked potato from about 12 inches above a countertop to loosen the interior.
– Cut down the center of each potato lengthwise and use a fork to fluff the insides.
– Spread the remaining softened butter inside each potato.
– Divide the cooked steak evenly among the fluffed baked potatoes.
– Drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce generously over the top of each loaded potato and serve immediately.
Notes
Potato Baking Tip:
– Ensure that the potatoes are evenly scrubbed to remove any dirt, which can affect flavor.
Steak Choice:
– Choose a steak cut that you prefer; NY strip, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin all work well.
Safety Tip:
– Be cautious when handling hot pans and oil; use oven mitts and avoid splatters.
Serving Suggestion:
– These loaded baked potatoes make a hearty meal when served with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Storage Tip:
– Leftover steak and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Baking Potatoes
Rub each scrubbed potato with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt to create a flavorful skin. Bake at 425°F until tender for a fluffy interior.
Cooking Steak
Trim excess fat and cut the steak into pieces for even cooking. Sear in a cast-iron skillet at medium-high heat for a golden crust, then finish cooking to desired doneness.
Creating Garlic Butter
In the skillet, combine butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Toss the cooked steak in this garlic butter for enhanced flavor.
Making Parmesan Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add more butter and garlic, then whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened for a rich sauce.
Assembling Loaded Baked Potatoes
Loosen the potato interior by dropping them from about 12 inches. Fluff with a fork, add butter, then top with steak and drizzle with Parmesan cream sauce.
FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for baking?
Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy texture when cooked.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
Potatoes are done when they are tender and a fork can easily pierce through them.
What is the best way to cook steak for maximum flavor?
Searing steak in a cast-iron skillet at high heat creates a flavorful crust while keeping the interior juicy.
How can I enhance the flavor of my garlic butter?
Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant, and consider adding herbs or spices for an extra flavor boost.
Can I use other types of cheese in the cream sauce?
Yes, while Parmesan is traditional, you can substitute with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for different flavors.
Conclusion
This delicious recipe for loaded baked potatoes topped with Cajun-seasoned steak and a rich Parmesan cream sauce is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors, from the spicy seasoning to the creamy garlic butter, creates a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings together comfort and gourmet touches!
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