
This loaded baked potato recipe transforms an ordinary night into something you’ll remember even on the busiest week. Pillowy baked potatoes become the base for juicy garlic butter steak bites and everything comes together under a cozy blanket of homemade parmesan cream sauce. When my husband tasted this for the first time he immediately asked for it again on his birthday — now it’s become our family treat after long hectic days or whenever we need something extra comforting.
This recipe always turns dinner into something out of a steakhouse. We first made it for a Valentine’s night at home and now the kids celebrate when they see those big potatoes go in the oven.
Ingredients
- Large russet potatoes: these bake up fluffy inside and crisp outside choose firm dry potatoes without sprouts
- Steak: sirloin ribeye strip or filet all work great look for nicely marbled meat for more juiciness
- Garlic: freshly minced brings bold flavor to both steak and sauce go for firm heavy heads with tight skins
- Butter: adds richness to potatoes steak and sauce always choose unsalted for control of seasoning
- Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes: making the steak pop pick a fresh blend for best flavor
- Kosher salt or sea salt: use to season both potatoes and sauce larger flakes work best on potato skins
- Heavy cream: essential for silky parmesan sauce check for freshest possible date
- Parmesan cheese: grated melts best use a wedge of real Parmigiano Reggiano if you can
- Lemon juice: adds a bright tang to balance the creaminess pick juicy unwaxed lemons for more flavor
- Parsley: fresh chopped at the end for color and freshness bright green bunches are best
- Avocado oil and olive oil: avocado oil for sizzling steak at high heat olive oil coats the potatoes for crisp skins
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake the Steakhouse Potatoes:
- Start by preheating your oven to 425. Line a baking sheet with parchment and rub each russet potato with olive oil so the skin becomes flavorful and crisp. Make sure every side is coated then sprinkle generously with sea salt. Arrange them on the pan without poking any holes and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The potatoes are ready when a fork slips in easily and the skin is crisp.
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- While your potatoes bake, trim your chosen steak of excess fat or gristle and cut into bite-sized pieces about two inches each for even searing. Toss the steak bites with avocado oil for a high smoke point and coat thoroughly with your favorite cajun seasoning. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high and add oil. Lay the steak in hot and let them sit undisturbed for two minutes to build a deep crust. Flip once after golden and cook for another minute before turning the heat to low for one more minute so the center stays juicy. Push the steak to the pan’s edge and drop in butter along with fresh garlic. Let the butter foam and sizzle the garlic, then quickly toss the steak bites in this mixture for a rich aromatic finish. Transfer to a bowl and cover loosely with foil to keep everything warm and moist.
- Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- Use the same skillet to capture all the steak’s flavorful brown bits. Over medium low, add more butter and fresh garlic and allow the aroma to rise before pouring in heavy cream. Slowly whisk until the cream simmers gently and begins to thicken, about three to five minutes. Sprinkle in grated parmesan and red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Whisk until your sauce has body and is silky smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste then finish the sauce off the heat by stirring in chopped parsley and freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness.
- Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
- Give the baked potatoes a quick lift and drop to fluff up the insides. Slice each one down the center and press gently to open. Tuck in a pat of butter and mash slightly with a fork to make room for the steak. Divide the warm steak bites among the potatoes then spoon over a generous amount of parmesan cream sauce. Serve piping hot with extra parsley for a steakhouse finish.

Filet steak melts perfectly into the fluffy potato and the way the parmesan sauce drips into every crevice reminds me of Sunday dinners growing up. The kids love sneaking some golden crusty steak bites before I even get to assemble the potatoes and we always end up laughing over the table as we dig in.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well for two days in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat place potato halves split side up on a baking sheet and warm in a low oven until heated through. Keep extra sauce in a jar stirred just before serving and add a splash of cream if it thickens up in the fridge. I have even packed cold leftovers for lunch with extra veggies which makes midday feel special.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try sweet potatoes for a new twist on the classic flavor. If parmesan is not available pecorino melts in almost the same way. Sirloin remains a favorite for family budget but if you want to splurge splurge on ribeye or filet. Use Greek yogurt in place of cream for a lighter take.

Serving Suggestions
These potatoes shine on their own but are even better with a crisp green salad and a glass of iced tea. Pair them with roasted broccoli or asparagus for a steakhouse style spread at home. I have served these for game nights as the ideal all in one meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
Recipe Origins
Loaded potatoes and steak are classics in American and steakhouse cuisine. This version brings the two together for a hearty mash up reminiscent of big family dinners. The garlic butter and herbed sauce are inspired by classic French bistro techniques but shaped for weeknight ease.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of steak works best for this dish?
Sirloin, NY Strip, Ribeye, or Filet are excellent choices for juicy, tender steak bites. Select your favorite cut or what's most accessible.
- → How do you achieve fluffy baked potatoes?
Bake potatoes at 425°F until fork-tender, then drop each from a height onto the pan to loosen the interior. This makes them fluffy and ready for filling.
- → Can the parmesan cream sauce be made ahead?
Yes, the cream sauce can be prepared in advance and gently rewarmed before serving. Stir well to restore its velvety texture.
- → Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?
While cast iron sears steak beautifully, any heavy skillet will work well. Just ensure it's hot enough to achieve a nice crust on the steak bites.
- → What are alternative toppings or add-ins?
Crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or green onions can be added for extra flavor. Adjust seasonings to personal taste or add your favorite garnishes.