Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Provolone, and Sautéed Vegetables: The Ultimate Comfort Food

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When you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and versatility, loaded baked potatoes with cheddar, provolone, and sautéed vegetables have got you covered. These hearty potatoes, filled with a creamy cheese sauce, savory vegetables, and tender steak, bring together rich, satisfying flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a meal for your family, or simply indulging in a comforting dish on a weeknight, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to prepare these loaded baked potatoes from start to finish. With easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and a breakdown of each ingredient, you’ll be able to create this delightful dish in no time. Let’s dive into what makes these loaded baked potatoes so special and how you can create them at home with ease.

What Makes These Loaded Baked Potatoes Special?

When you think of comfort food, baked potatoes are likely one of the first things that come to mind. But imagine taking that familiar, humble potato and transforming it into a mouthwatering, gourmet meal. That’s exactly what this recipe does—elevating the classic baked potato to a whole new level. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3/

Rich and Creamy Cheese Sauce

The key to these loaded baked potatoes is the rich, creamy cheese sauce. Made with cheddar and provolone, the sauce adds a perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess. The cream cheese melts into the mix, making the sauce extra smooth, while the spices—paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder—infuse the sauce with bold flavors. This cheesy concoction binds all the ingredients together and gives each bite that irresistibly rich texture.

Savory Sautéed Vegetables

The sautéed vegetables—onions, bell peppers, poblano peppers, and mushrooms—add color, texture, and layers of flavor. Caramelized onions and bell peppers give the dish a sweet, smoky depth, while the earthy mushrooms and zesty poblano peppers bring a satisfying contrast to the cheese. The fresh rosemary and garlic enhance the overall flavor profile, making the vegetables not only delicious but aromatic.

Tender, Savory Shaved Steak

To top off the dish, shaved steak adds a meaty element that takes these loaded baked potatoes from side dish to main course. The steak, when browned to perfection, brings a juicy, savory bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce and tender vegetables.

These loaded baked potatoes are hearty and full of flavor, making them the ultimate comfort food. But they also offer versatility—feel free to customize the toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re craving more veggies, swapping the steak for chicken, or even opting for a vegetarian version, this recipe is easily adaptable to your tastes.

Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Provolone, and Sautéed Vegetables

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients that will make this dish come to life. Here’s everything you need to get started:

For the Potatoes:

• 6 russet potatoes, scrubbed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup provolone cheese, freshly shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Toppings:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 1 poblano pepper, cut into thin strips
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 pound shaved steak
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

This combination of ingredients gives you everything you need to make a flavorful, satisfying meal. With the creamy cheese sauce, sautéed vegetables, and tender steak, you’ll create a dish that everyone will love.

How to Prepare the Potatoes for Baking

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s start preparing the potatoes. This step may take a little time, but the results are worth it.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven to 400°F

Before you start working on the potatoes, preheat your oven to 400°F. This high temperature ensures that the potatoes will cook evenly and develop that crispy, golden skin that’s so satisfying to bite into.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

Scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Once clean, use a fork to pierce each potato several times. This step is essential because it allows steam to escape as the potatoes bake, preventing them from bursting in the oven.

Next, rub each potato with vegetable oil. This will help the skin become crispy and flavorful. Season the potatoes generously with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the flavor of the skin and creates a perfect contrast to the creamy filling.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

Place the prepared potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 1 to 1¼ hours, or until they are easily pierced with a fork. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes. You’ll know they’re done when the skins are golden brown and the insides are soft and tender.

While the potatoes are baking, you can prepare the other components of the dish. This will save you time and ensure everything is ready when the potatoes are done.

Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the star of the show, adding richness and creaminess to the potatoes. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the provolone cheese, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, granulated sugar, paprika, dry mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and white pepper. Stir them together until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese Mixture

To melt the cheese mixture, set up a double boiler by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water. This gentle heat ensures that the cheese melts slowly and evenly, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.

Stir occasionally, allowing the cheese to fully melt and the mixture to come together. Once melted, slowly add in the whole milk, whisking gently until the sauce reaches a smooth, velvety consistency.

Step 3: Store the Cheese Sauce

If you’re preparing the cheese sauce in advance, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. When you’re ready to use it, reheat the sauce gently over low heat or in the microwave until it’s warm and smooth.

Preparing the Sautéed Vegetables and Steak

While the cheese sauce is melting, it’s time to sauté the vegetables and cook the steak. This step adds flavor and texture to the dish.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper and sauté them for 12-15 minutes until they become soft and caramelized. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms and fresh rosemary to the skillet. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms become tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Once the vegetables are done, transfer them to a bowl and cover with foil to keep warm.

Cook the Shaved Steak

In the same skillet, heat another 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shaved steak and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a bowl and cover it to keep warm.

How to Assemble Your Loaded Baked Potatoes

Once your potatoes are baked and all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the dish.

Step 1: Scoop the Potato Flesh

When the baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut off the top third of each potato. Carefully scoop out the soft potato flesh into a large bowl, leaving about a ¼-inch rim around the skin. You want to create a sturdy shell that will hold all the fillings without falling apart.

Step 2: Mash the Filling

Mash the scooped potato with half of the cooked steak, ½ cup of the cheese sauce, and ½ cup of milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be smooth and creamy but still firm enough to mound back into the potato shells.

Step 3: Refill the Potato Shells

Slightly mound the mashed potato mixture back into the potato shells, packing it in gently. Place the tops of the potatoes back on a rimmed baking sheet. If you’re preparing the potatoes in advance, you can cover them and refrigerate them at this point. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before continuing.

Baking and Serving Your Loaded Potatoes

Now that the potatoes are stuffed and ready, it’s time to bake them and serve this delicious meal.

Step 1: Add Extra Cheese Sauce

Spoon the remaining cheese sauce over each potato. This adds an extra layer of creaminess that will melt and bubble as the potatoes bake.

Step 2: Top with Steak and Vegetables

Top each potato with the remaining shaved steak, sautéed vegetables, and a little more cheese sauce. The combination of toppings will make each bite burst with flavor.

Step 3: Bake

Place the stuffed potatoes in the preheated 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are heated through and the cheese sauce is bubbling.

Step 4: Serve

Once the potatoes are done, carefully transfer them to a platter and serve immediately. You can also serve any remaining cheese sauce on the side for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by stuffing them and refrigerating them. Let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before baking.

Can I Substitute the Steak with Another Protein?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can swap the shaved steak for chicken, ground beef, or even a vegetarian protein like sautéed tofu or tempeh.

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the potatoes in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion: A Hearty, Flavorful Meal for Any Occasion

These Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Provolone, and Sautéed Vegetables are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. From the creamy cheese sauce to the tender steak and savory vegetables, this dish offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as a main dish or as a comforting side, these potatoes are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

So, why not try making these loaded baked potatoes for your next meal? Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a dish that’s full of flavor, warmth, and deliciousness.

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