Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Loaded Baked Potato With Steak Bites

Craving comfort food with a kick? Look no further! This Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites takes the classic loaded potato to a whole new level. We’re talking fluffy baked potatoes, a creamy, spicy cheddar-jalapeño sauce, tender, flavorful steak bites, and a generous topping of fresh herbs and crispy potato skin crumbles. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you completely satisfied. This recipe is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for your next gathering. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this masterpiece!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Russet Potatoes (2 large, ≈300g each): We’re using russet potatoes for their fluffy interior and wonderfully crisp skin. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. Scrubbing them clean is key – we want to keep that nutritious skin!
• Beef Sirloin (400g / 14oz): Sirloin is a fantastic choice for its tenderness and flavor. We’re cutting it into bite-sized cubes for easy eating and quick cooking. Trimming any excess fat will help ensure a good sear.
• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp / 30ml): Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor, but any good quality olive oil will work. We’ll be using it for both baking the potatoes and marinating the steak.
• Kosher Salt (1 tsp + more to season / 5g + more): Kosher salt is ideal for seasoning as its larger crystals distribute evenly. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it really brings out the flavors!
• Black Pepper (½ tsp / 2g): Freshly ground black pepper is a must! It adds a warm, aromatic spice that complements the other ingredients.
• Unsalted Butter (2 Tbsp / 28g): Butter adds richness and flavor to the cheese sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 Tbsp / 8g): The flour acts as a thickening agent for the cheese sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
• Whole Milk (250ml / 1 cup): Whole milk provides the best richness and flavor for the cheese sauce. You can use lower-fat milk, but the sauce may not be as creamy.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (100g / 1 cup, grated): Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor that stands up to the spice of the jalapeño. Grating it yourself ensures a smooth melt.
• Jalapeño (1 small, ≈15g, seeded and minced): The star of the spice! Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat, or leave some in for an extra kick.
• Smoked Paprika (½ tsp / 1g): Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor that complements the cheddar and jalapeño beautifully.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic is essential for adding aromatic complexity to the steak marinade.
• Fresh Rosemary (1 tsp / 2g, finely chopped): Rosemary’s piney aroma pairs wonderfully with beef. Finely chopping it ensures it distributes evenly throughout the marinade.
• Soy Sauce (1 Tbsp / 15ml, halal-certified): Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness to the steak marinade, helping to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor. Ensure it’s halal-certified if needed.
• Honey (1 tsp / 5ml): A touch of honey balances the savory flavors in the steak marinade and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Plain Greek Yogurt (100g / 3½oz) or Dairy-Free Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy potato. Greek yogurt provides extra protein and a thicker texture. Dairy-free yogurt is a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Fresh Chives (2 Tbsp / 6g, chopped): Chives add a mild oniony flavor and a pop of fresh green color.
• Fresh Cilantro (2 Tbsp / 6g, torn): Cilantro provides a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Potato Skin Crumbles (¼ cup / 30g, toasted): These add a delightful crunch and enhance the potato flavor. Toasting them brings out their natural sweetness.

Bringing It All Together: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Thoroughly scrub the russet potatoes to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry – this is crucial for achieving crispy skins. Using a fork, pierce each potato several times. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from exploding and ensuring even cooking.
2. Season and Bake: Rub each potato with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a generous pinch of kosher salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (no baking sheet needed!). Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the skins are wonderfully crisp and the interiors are easily pierced with a fork. The baking time will vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
3. Marinate the Steak Bites: While the potatoes are baking, prepare the steak. In a medium bowl, combine the beef sirloin cubes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, soy sauce, and honey. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the steak is evenly coated. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 10 minutes – this tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.
4. Sear the Steak: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat until it’s smoking hot. This high heat is essential for achieving a beautiful sear. Add the marinated steak bites to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until a deep brown crust forms on all sides, but the centers remain pink. Transfer the seared steak to a plate and keep warm.
5. Craft the Cheddar-Jalapeño Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This roux will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce is smooth and begins to simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
6. Infuse with Flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, minced jalapeño, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done baking, let them cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Carefully slice each potato lengthwise, leaving the skins intact. Gently fluff the interior of each potato with a fork, creating space for the toppings.
8. Load ‘Em Up!: Drizzle the warm cheddar-jalapeño sauce inside each potato in a generous zig-zag pattern, allowing it to pool at the edges. Top each potato with a generous spoonful of the seared steak bites. Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt. Sprinkle with chopped chives, torn cilantro, and toasted potato skin crumbles.
9. Final Bake (Optional): For an extra touch of indulgence, return the assembled potatoes to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will melt the cheese slightly and re-crisp the skins.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Consider drizzling a thin stream of extra cheese sauce around the plate for visual appeal. Arrange the steak bites attractively and scatter the fresh herbs for a pop of color.

The Science of a Perfect Baked Potato

Baking potatoes at a high temperature is key to achieving that desirable crispy skin and fluffy interior. The high heat quickly evaporates moisture from the surface of the potato, leading to the crisping effect. Piercing the potato with a fork allows steam to escape, preventing the potato from bursting and ensuring even cooking. Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which results in a light and fluffy texture.

Why Steak Bites and Spicy Cheddar? A Flavor Harmony

The combination of tender steak bites and a spicy cheddar-jalapeño sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. The richness of the steak is beautifully balanced by the heat of the jalapeño and the tang of the cheddar. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that complements both the steak and the cheese. This isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating a textural experience – the tender steak, the creamy sauce, the fluffy potato, and the crunchy potato skin crumbles all work together to create a truly satisfying bite.

Tips for the Best Steak Bites

To ensure your steak bites are incredibly tender, choose a well-marbled cut of beef like sirloin. Marinating the steak not only adds flavor but also helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the steak – this will lower the temperature and prevent a good sear from forming. Work in batches if necessary. And remember, a hot skillet is your best friend when it comes to searing!

Customizing Your Loaded Baked Potato

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Swap the steak for pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different types of cheese – pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda would all be delicious. Add a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until smooth and creamy. You may need to add a splash of milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much.

Can I use different potatoes?

While russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy texture, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a slightly creamier texture. Red potatoes are not ideal for baking as they don’t get as fluffy.

How do I toast the potato skin crumbles?

Simply spread the potato skin crumbles on a baking sheet and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn easily.

Conclusion

This Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Loaded Baked Potato with Steak Bites is the ultimate comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or any occasion where you want to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for easy access later!

recipe loaded baked potato with steak bites

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• Author: Sarah Williams
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Diet: General

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Description

Indulge in a hearty and flavorful loaded baked potato featuring tender steak bites, a creamy spicy cheddar-jalapeño sauce, and fresh herbs. This recipe elevates the classic comfort food to a new level of deliciousness.

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Ingredients

• Russet Potatoes (2 large, 600g): Scrubbed and pierced for fluffy interiors and crispy skins.
• Beef Sirloin (400g / 14oz): Cubed for quick cooking and marinated for tenderness.
• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp / 30ml): Used for baking and marinating.
• Kosher Salt (1 tsp + more / 5g + more): For seasoning.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp / 2g): Freshly ground for aromatic spice.
• Unsalted Butter (2 Tbsp / 28g): Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 Tbsp / 8g): Thickens the cheese sauce.
• Whole Milk (250ml / 1 cup): Creates a creamy sauce base.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (100g / 1 cup, grated): Provides a bold, tangy flavor.
• Jalapeño (1 small, ≈15g, minced): Adds spice to the sauce.
• Smoked Paprika (½ tsp / 1g): Adds smoky depth.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the steak marinade.
• Rosemary (1 tsp / 2g, chopped): Enhances the steak flavor.
• Soy Sauce (1 Tbsp / 15ml): Adds umami to the steak marinade.
• Honey (1 tsp / 5ml): Balances the steak marinade.
• Greek Yogurt (100g / 3½oz): Adds a cool, tangy contrast.
• Chives (2 Tbsp / 6g, chopped): Adds a mild oniony flavor.
• Cilantro (2 Tbsp / 6g, torn): Provides a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Potato Skin Crumbles (¼ cup / 30g, toasted): Adds a delightful crunch.

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Instructions

1. Prepare Potatoes: Scrub, pierce, and preheat to 200°C (400°F).
2. Season & Bake: Rub with oil and salt; bake 45-55 minutes until crispy.
3. Marinate Steak: Combine sirloin with oil, garlic, rosemary, soy sauce, and honey; marinate 10+ minutes.
4. Sear Steak: Sear steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Make Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then milk; simmer until thickened.
6. Infuse Flavor: Stir in cheddar, jalapeño, paprika, and salt.
7. Assemble Potatoes: Slice potatoes, fluff interiors.
8. Load & Serve: Drizzle with sauce, top with steak, yogurt, chives, cilantro, and crumbles.

Notes

For extra indulgence, briefly return assembled potatoes to the oven to melt the cheese. Feel free to customize toppings to your liking!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking, Searing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 large potato
• Calories: 850 kcal
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 70 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg

Keywords: loaded potato,steak,cheddar,jalapeño,baked potato,comfort food,spicy,dinner,side dish