Recipe: Beef Jerky Loaded Potatoes

Indulging in a loaded potato is like enjoying a warm hug on a plate. But when you add a twist of beef jerky, it takes this classic comfort food to a whole new level. Our beef jerky-loaded potatoes are a deliciously hearty dish that combines fluffy baked potatoes with savoury jerky, creating an unforgettable flavour experience.

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the satisfying comfort of a loaded potato and the bold, smoky flavours of high-quality beef jerky. Whether you're aiming to impress at a family gathering or craving a unique and delicious meal, this dish will hit the spot. The combination of textures—the crispy potato skin, the soft, buttery interior, the gooey melted cheese, and the chewy, flavour-packed beef jerky—makes every bite a delight.

Perfect for any occasion, these beef jerky-loaded potatoes are not just a side dish but a star on their own. They are ideal for a hearty lunch, a casual dinner, or even a game-day snack. And the best part? You can choose the toppings to match your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Thinking of Your Ingredients

The key to making the perfect loaded potato lies in using quality ingredients that bring out the best in each component. Starting with the potato itself, Royal Blue potatoes are the ideal choice for this recipe. Known for their deep, earthy flavour and the perfect balance of fluffiness and firmness, these Aussie-grown spuds bake up beautifully. They offer a creamy, smooth texture inside while developing a golden, crispy skin on the outside, making them the perfect base for your delicious toppings.

Next, the cheese. We recommend a good quality cheddar cheese, known for its sharp, rich flavour that complements the potato's mild taste and pairs beautifully with the smoky notes of the beef jerky. The cheddar melts smoothly, creating a creamy layer that binds the toppings together.

Choosing Your Jerky

The real star of this recipe, though, is The Jerky Co beef jerky. Made from MSA-grade Australian beef, our jerky is marinated and air-dried to perfection, delivering an intense flavour punch that takes these loaded potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary. The jerky’s smoky, savoury taste adds a depth of flavour that you simply can't get from other toppings. 

Depending on your taste, you can choose from a range of flavours—whether you prefer a spicy kick, a classic smoky taste, something a little more traditional, or something more adventurous like our Exotic Truffle Jerky, there's a flavour to suit everyone.

Ingredients: (2-3 servings)

• 4 large potatoes (Royal Blue)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup The Jerky Co beef jerky, finely chopped (choose your favourite flavour)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped spring onions
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• Hot sauce or BBQ sauce for drizzling (optional)

Now, let’s dive into the details of creating this mouth-watering dish.

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Wash and scrub the Royal Blue potatoes clean, then pierce each one a few times with a fork. Rub them with a good bit of seasoning—salt and a bit of garlic powder—to enhance their flavour.

Top Tip: To shave some time off the baking process, wrap each potato in a bit of kitchen roll with a bit of oil and microwave for 5-6 minutes.

Step 2:

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 3:

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them open lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork. Drizzle the melted butter over the potato flesh, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the fluffed potato, allowing it to melt into it. Then, add the finely chopped beef jerky, mixing it gently into the cheese.

Step 5:

For an extra flavour boost, you can now add your optional toppings: crumbled bacon for that extra salty touch, diced tomatoes for a fresh burst, and chopped green onions for a bit of bite. Finish with a dollop of sour cream on each potato.

Step 6:

If you’re in the mood for a little extra zing, drizzle some hot sauce or BBQ sauce over the top. Serve your beef jerky-loaded potatoes warm, and enjoy the rich, savoury flavours in every bite.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To make the most of your beef jerky-loaded potatoes, consider pairing them with complementary sides and beverages that enhance the dish's hearty flavours:

1. Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy potatoes. The acidity of the vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Serving your loaded potatoes with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots adds a nutritious and flavourful side. The caramelisation of the veggies pairs well with the savoury beef jerky.
3. Beer Pairing: A strong, malty beer like a brown ale or porter pairs wonderfully with the depth of flavours in beef jerky and cheese. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp pilsner can also work, cutting through the richness of the dish.
4. Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine, such as a Syrah or Zinfandel, complements the savoury elements of the beef jerky and the creamy potato. For white wine lovers, a Chardonnay with a touch of oak enhances the buttery notes of the dish.

Get Premium Quality Beef Jerky from The Jerky Co

This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish, turning a simple baked potato into a gourmet experience. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the delicious flavours of beef jerky in a new and comforting way. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to dig into this ultimate comfort food.