Creamy Mushroom Steak Bites Loaded Potatoes

### **Instructions:**

#### 1. **Prepare the Loaded Potatoes:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Scrub the potatoes clean and poke a few holes in each one with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
– Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake them for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and the skins are crispy. You can test doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the potatoes—if it slides in easily, they’re ready.
– Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a small border around the edges. You can use the scooped-out potato for mashed potatoes or other recipes.
– Mash the scooped-out potato and mix it with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Scoop this mixture back into the potato skins.

#### 2. **Cook the Steak Bites:**
– While the potatoes are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak bites with salt and pepper.
– Add the steak bites to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.

#### 3. **Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:**
– In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they become soft and browned. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
– Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any delicious bits stuck to the pan.
– Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.
– If you want to add a little extra depth of flavor, stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard at this point.
– Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the creamy mushroom sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld together.

#### 4. **Assemble the Dish:**
– Spoon the creamy mushroom steak bites mixture over the loaded potatoes. You can be generous with the sauce and steak, as it’s the star of the dish.
– Sprinkle the top with additional shredded cheddar cheese and return the potatoes to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

#### 5. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Once the potatoes are out of the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits (if using), and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
– Serve immediately while the potatoes are warm, and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!

### **Tips:**
– **Customize the Potatoes:** You can add extras like chopped chives, sautéed onions, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor on the loaded potatoes.
– **Steak Alternatives:** If you prefer a different cut of meat, you can easily swap the sirloin for ribeye, flank steak, or even chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein option.
– **Make Ahead:** The creamy mushroom sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before adding the steak.
– **Vegetarian Option:** Skip the steak and use a mix of sautéed mushrooms and other vegetables for a vegetarian version of this dish.

### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**
– **Rich and Comforting:** The creamy mushroom sauce with tender steak bites over the crispy, cheesy potatoes makes for a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
– **Perfectly Balanced:** The combination of flavors—from the savory steak and mushrooms to the creamy potatoes—creates a harmonious and delicious bite every time.
– **Customizable:** Whether you want to add more cheese, bacon, or fresh herbs, this recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
– **Easy Yet Impressive:** This dish may look fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s a great way to impress guests or enjoy a comforting dinner at home.

### **Conclusion:**
**Creamy Mushroom Steak Bites Loaded Potatoes** is a dish that combines all the best flavors into one ultimate comfort food. With tender steak, creamy mushrooms, and loaded potatoes, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this dish will be a hit every time. Give it a try and enjoy the ultimate indulgence in every bite!