The Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food for meat lovers. This dish combines juicy, tender chicken and savory steak bites, seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, and pairs them with cheesy, loaded mashed potatoes that offer rich creaminess in every bite. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even a special weeknight treat, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture.
Imagine flavorful steak and chicken bites seasoned with Italian herbs and creamy mashed potatoes loaded with cheddar and mozzarella cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. The layered tastes and textures create a memorable dish that appeals to all ages. With easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this restaurant-style meal at home, saving time without compromising on taste. For more details on potato varieties perfect for mashing, check out Russet Potatoes on Wikipedia.
Ingredients List
To prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need a blend of ingredients that bring flavor, texture, and richness to the dish. Here’s a breakdown:
- For the Chicken & Steak:
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed – This lean meat adds a tender, juicy element to the dish.
- 2 ribeye steaks, cubed – Known for its rich marbling, ribeye brings a robust, beefy flavor. Read more about steak types on Ribeye Steak on Wikipedia.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Essential for searing and adding richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, savory element.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A mix of dried herbs like basil and oregano that complements garlic.
- ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper – Simple seasonings to balance flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a touch of color and freshness.
- For the Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed – Ideal for a creamy, fluffy mash.
- ½ cup heavy cream – For a rich, smooth consistency. More about cream varieties at Heavy Cream on Wikipedia.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Essential for gooey, cheesy texture.
- ¼ cup sour cream – Adds tanginess to balance the flavors.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Gives a smoky, crispy topping.
- 3 green onions, sliced (green parts only) – Adds mild onion flavor and color.
Preparing the Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Cheesy loaded mashed potatoes are a delicious base for this meal. Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with the garlic Parmesan chicken and steak.
- Boiling the Potatoes
- Begin by peeling and cubing 4 large russet potatoes. These potatoes are ideal because of their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy, smooth mash. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, fill with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cooking the potatoes in salted water infuses them with a subtle flavor boost.
- Boil for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture, which can make the mash watery.
- Mashing and Adding Creaminess
- Return the drained potatoes to the pot and mash until smooth. Add ½ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of sour cream, salt, and pepper to taste. The heavy cream makes the potatoes velvety, while sour cream adds a subtle tanginess.
- For more information on potato varieties for mashing, check out Russet Potato on Wikipedia.
- Folding in Cheese and Bacon
- Once the potatoes are creamy, fold in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon. The cheddar provides sharpness, while the mozzarella adds a gooey texture.
- Sprinkle in 3 sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor. If you’d like more ideas for loaded mashed potato variations, explore Pinterest for Loaded Mashed Potatoes.
This creamy and flavorful potato base complements the juicy bites of chicken and steak. These potatoes can also stand alone as a side dish with a main course.
Baking the Loaded Mashed Potatoes
With the cheesy loaded mashed potatoes prepared, it’s time to bake them for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure an even bake.
- Spread the Potatoes in a Baking Dish
- Grease a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the mashed potatoes evenly into the dish. Creating an even layer will help the cheese melt uniformly, creating that golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly. This baking step not only melts the cheese but also allows the flavors to meld and creates a slight crisp on the edges, enhancing texture.
Cheesy mashed potatoes add a hearty layer to the meal, pairing beautifully with garlic Parmesan flavors in the chicken and steak.
Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak
The Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak is a deliciously savory component of this meal. With a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly seasoned and seared meat that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy potatoes.
- Seasoning the Chicken and Steak
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cubed chicken breasts and 2 cubed ribeye steaks. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toss everything together until the meat is well-coated in the garlic and Parmesan mixture.
- The Italian seasoning, a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme, adds a Mediterranean flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic. For a detailed look at this seasoning mix, check out Italian Herbs on Wikipedia.
- Searing for Flavor
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and steak cubes in a single layer. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until the meat is cooked through and has a golden-brown crust.
- The high heat helps lock in the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Ribeye steak’s marbling makes it especially juicy, while chicken breast adds a leaner texture.
This combination of garlic Parmesan seasoning with tender meat is sure to become a favorite, adding depth to the overall dish.
Serving the Dish
Once your garlic Parmesan chicken & steak and cheesy loaded mashed potatoes are ready, it’s time to bring everything together for a satisfying and visually appealing meal.
- Plating the Dish
- Start by placing a generous portion of the cheesy mashed potatoes on each plate. The creamy, loaded potatoes serve as a perfect base for the juicy meat.
- Arrange the chicken and steak bites over the mashed potatoes, allowing the juices from the meat to add extra flavor to the dish.
- Garnishing for a Fresh Touch
- For a burst of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a mild, herby note that balances the richness of the potatoes and meat.
This comforting and delicious meal is now ready to serve! Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
Variations and Customization Options
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes is versatile and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ways to make this dish your own:
- For the Chicken & Steak
- Alternative Seasonings: Swap the Italian seasoning for Cajun spices or rosemary and thyme for a different flavor profile. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can also bring a hint of heat to the dish.
- Different Cuts of Meat: For a more budget-friendly version, try using sirloin or even ground beef instead of ribeye. For the chicken, boneless thighs provide a juicier alternative to breasts.
- For the Mashed Potatoes
- Using Sweet Potatoes: Replace russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist that pairs well with the garlic and Parmesan. Sweet potatoes also add a vibrant color and boost of nutrients.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor. For those avoiding dairy, consider dairy-free cheese options.
- Dietary Adjustments
- Lactose-Free Options: Substitute with lactose-free cheese, cream, and sour cream for a lactose-friendly version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with vegetarian bacon bits or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian-friendly side.
Explore these variations to make this recipe uniquely yours, adapting it to any palate or dietary preference!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes is easy, allowing you to enjoy this hearty meal again. Here’s how to preserve and reheat it without sacrificing flavor.
- Refrigerating Leftovers
- Store any leftover chicken, steak, and mashed potatoes in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors may even deepen over time, making for an even tastier meal when reheated.
- Reheating for Best Texture
- For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. This will help the mashed potatoes stay creamy and keep the meat tender.
- Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, but to avoid dryness, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the mashed potatoes and cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid.
Following these tips ensures your leftovers stay just as flavorful and satisfying as the original dish.
(FAQs)
1. Can I use different cuts of steak or chicken?
Yes! While ribeye steak and chicken breast are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use other cuts. Sirloin or strip steak work well and may be more economical options. For the chicken, try boneless thighs if you prefer a juicier, more tender texture.
2. What’s the best way to ensure the meat stays tender?
To keep the meat tender, avoid overcooking. Searing the meat at a high temperature creates a crust that locks in moisture. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the meat to steam rather than sear.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the loaded mashed potatoes and the seasoned meat separately, then refrigerate. Before serving, reheat the potatoes in the oven and quickly sear the meat.
4. Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes, you can easily omit the bacon or use a substitute, such as turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits, to suit dietary preferences.
5. What cheeses work well as substitutes?
Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby work beautifully if you want a change from cheddar and mozzarella. For lactose-free options, there are now several dairy-free cheeses available that melt well.
These FAQs cover some common questions to help you make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes perfectly tailored to your needs!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Description
The Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Steak Bake with Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes combines juicy, tender bites of chicken and steak with creamy, decadent mashed potatoes loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Steak:
2 chicken breasts, cubed
2 ribeye steaks, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup sour cream
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, sliced (green parts only)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash.
Add heavy cream, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes, mixing until smooth and creamy. Fold in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the loaded mashed potatoes into a greased baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
While potatoes bake, season chicken and steak cubes with garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken and steak cubes for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown.
Serve chicken and steak bites over a generous portion of cheesy loaded mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
