This recipe for Hearty Baked Beef Steak with Potatoes and Cheese is a comforting and delicious meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The beef steaks are seasoned with Italian herbs, paprika, and black pepper for a deep, savory flavor. Roasted with onions and mushrooms, and paired with seasoned potatoes, tomato paste, and sour cream, this dish is a complete meal packed with flavor. The finishing touch of melted cheese and fresh dill makes each bite irresistibly creamy and aromatic. It’s easy to prepare yet yields impressive results every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Steak
- Beef Steaks – 8 pieces
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon (divided)
- Italian Herbs – 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon (divided)
- Onion – 1 large, sliced
- Mushrooms – 6, sliced
- Vegetable Oil – for cooking
Potatoes
- Potatoes – 4 medium, peeled and sliced
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable Oil – 3 tablespoons
Sauce and Toppings
- Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons
- Tomato – 1, sliced
- Sour Cream – 2 tablespoons
- Cheese – 70 g (2.5 oz), shredded
- Dill – fresh, chopped, for garnish
Other
- Parchment Paper – dampened
- Aluminum Foil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
- Season the Steaks: In a small bowl, mix together half of the salt, Italian herbs, black pepper, and paprika. Rub this spice mixture evenly onto both sides of each steak, coating them thoroughly.
- Preheat the Pan: Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steaks, and cook them for 3-5 minutes per side or until they are seared to your preferred level of doneness. Set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent and the mushrooms are browned. Set aside with the steaks.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Season the Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with salt, paprika, black pepper, and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil until well-coated.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread a layer of the seasoned potatoes in the bottom of a baking dish, creating an even layer.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Add the Steak and Vegetables: Place the cooked steaks on top of the potato layer. Spread the sautéed onions and mushrooms over the steaks.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Spoon dollops of tomato paste and sour cream over the steaks and vegetables, spreading it slightly. Place tomato slices on top for added moisture and flavor.
- Cover and Bake: Dampen parchment paper and place it over the dish, then cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Final Bake
- Remove Cover and Add Cheese: Remove the foil and parchment paper. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the dish.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned golden.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Finish with Dill: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped dill over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy baked steak and potatoes with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad!
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 36 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another cut of beef?
- Yes! Cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin would work well in this dish. Adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
- Yes, fresh tomatoes can add a more subtle flavor. Simply slice and place on top of the steaks.
3. What can I substitute for sour cream?
- Greek yogurt is a good alternative and provides a similar tangy flavor while being lower in fat.
4. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
- Certainly! Substitute the steak with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or even cauliflower. Add a plant-based protein, like marinated tofu or tempeh, for a balanced meal.
Tips for Making Perfect Baked Steak and Potatoes
- Marinate the Steak: For enhanced flavor, marinate the steak with the spices and some olive oil for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Opt for cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda, which melt beautifully and add richness to the dish.
- Add More Vegetables: You can easily add bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain the original texture.
- Freezing: This dish can also be frozen after baking. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
This Hearty Baked Beef Steak with Potatoes and Cheese is a wholesome and satisfying meal with classic flavors. The combination of tender beef, savory potatoes, and melted cheese makes it a dish everyone at the table will enjoy. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this recipe delivers in both taste and presentation. Enjoy the comforting flavors and versatility of this dish, and feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients.