Loaded Baked Potato with Beef and Cheese

Serves: 2
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes

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Ingredients

For the baked potatoes

• 2 large russet potatoes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the beef topping

• 200 g beef steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-size cubes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar–mozzarella mix)

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• ½ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (spring onions)

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Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F.

2. Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly.

3. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.

4. Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

5. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 50–60 minutes, until the skin is crisp and a knife slides in easily.

6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

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Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add beef cubes, season with salt and pepper.

3. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.

4. Add onion and garlic, cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Assemble the Potatoes

1. Slice each baked potato lengthwise.

2. Gently squeeze the sides to open the potato.

3. Fluff the inside with a fork.

4. Sprinkle shredded cheese inside the potato.

5. Return potatoes to the oven for 5 minutes, until cheese melts.

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Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Top each potato with cooked beef.

2. Add crumbled bacon.

3. Spoon sour cream on top.

4. Garnish with chopped green onions.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot as a main dish or hearty side.

• Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

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Tips

• For extra creaminess, mix a little butter into the potato flesh before adding cheese.

• Swap beef for chicken or mushrooms if preferred.

• Add a drizzle of cheese sauce for a restaurant-style finish.