Steak & Cheese Loaded Baked Potatoes

#### For the Baked Potatoes:
– **4 medium russet potatoes**, scrubbed clean
– **Olive oil**, for rubbing
– **Salt**, for sprinkling

#### For the Steak:
– **2 ribeye steaks** (or sirloin steaks, flank steaks, or your preferred cut)
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1 teaspoon garlic powder** (optional)
– **1 teaspoon smoked paprika** (optional)

#### For the Toppings:
– **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese** (or your favorite cheese blend)
– **1/2 cup sour cream** (optional)
– **1/4 cup green onions**, chopped
– **1/2 cup crispy bacon bits** (optional, for extra flavor)
– **1 tablespoon butter** (optional, for extra creaminess)
– **Chives or parsley**, chopped for garnish (optional)

### Directions

#### 1. **Prepare the Baked Potatoes**:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Rub the scrubbed potatoes with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. This helps the skins become crispy and flavorful while baking.
– Pierce the potatoes a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
– Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet, and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. If you’re short on time, you can also microwave the potatoes for 8-10 minutes on high, turning them halfway through.

#### 2. **Cook the Steak**:
– While the potatoes are baking, season the steaks generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
– Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet or on a grill pan over medium-high heat.
– Cook the steaks for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness (4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5 minutes for medium, and 6 minutes for well-done).
– Remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain.

#### 3. **Assemble the Loaded Potatoes**:
– Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven (or microwave) and carefully slice them open lengthwise. You can gently squeeze the sides to open them up.
– Fluff the insides with a fork, and add a small dollop of butter for extra creaminess, if desired.
– Layer the sliced steak on top of the fluffy potato insides, then generously sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
– Return the loaded potatoes to the oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

#### 4. **Add the Finishing Touches**:
– Remove the potatoes from the oven. Top them with a dollop of sour cream (if using), a sprinkle of chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, and any other toppings you like.
– Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

#### 5. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Serve these Steak & Cheese Loaded Baked Potatoes as a main dish, or pair them with a side salad for a more complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this indulgent yet simple dish!

### Customization Ideas

– **Different Cheeses**: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. A combination of sharp cheddar and creamy gouda is particularly delicious!
– **Add Veggies**: Load up your potatoes with some sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, or grilled onions for extra flavor and texture.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you like a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or drizzle the potatoes with hot sauce before serving.
– **Extra Toppings**: Consider adding avocado slices for creaminess, or top with a fried egg for an extra indulgent twist.

### Why These Steak & Cheese Loaded Baked Potatoes Are a Must-Try

Steak & Cheese Loaded Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food: warm, cheesy, savory, and hearty. They make a perfect dinner for steak lovers and anyone who enjoys a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The combination of crispy, fluffy baked potatoes, juicy steak, and melty cheese is hard to beat. Plus, they’re easy to make, and you can add your own favorite toppings to create a dish that suits your tastes perfectly.

Whether you’re serving these loaded potatoes at a dinner party, making them for a family meal, or simply enjoying them on a cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, Steak & Cheese Loaded Baked Potatoes are bound to become a go-to dish in your recipe rotation.

### Final Thoughts

These Steak & Cheese Loaded Baked Potatoes are the perfect meal to enjoy any time you’re craving something hearty and comforting. The crispy potatoes, tender steak, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings come together for a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. So, next time you’re in the mood for a delicious, filling meal, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!