Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
2. Season the Potatoes: Rub each potato with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, coating them evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring that the seasoning covers the entire surface of the potatoes.
3. Bake the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack. Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on their size. The potatoes are ready when their skins are crispy, and they are soft when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites

1. Heat the Skillet: While the potatoes are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the Steak: In a bowl, season the bite-sized steak pieces with garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the steak evenly with the seasonings.
3. Cook the Steak: Add the seasoned steak bites to the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your preferred level of doneness (for medium, aim for about 130-135°F internally).
4. Add Butter: Once the steak bites are cooked, add the 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Toss the steak bites in the melted butter for an extra burst of flavor. Remove the steak from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Potatoes

1. Slice the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and carefully slice each one open lengthwise.
2. Fluff the Insides: Using a fork, gently fluff the insides of the potatoes to create a soft base for your toppings.
3. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the fluffy potato insides. Place the potatoes back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Load the Potatoes

1. Add Toppings: Once the cheese is melted, remove the potatoes from the oven. Top each potato with a dollop of sour cream, a generous sprinkle of crumbled turkey bacon, and chopped green onions. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Add Steak Bites: Finally, top each potato with the cooked steak bites, distributing them evenly across the potatoes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your loaded baked potatoes with steak bites immediately, while they’re still hot. The combination of the creamy potatoes, savory steak, and rich toppings will be a hit at the dinner table!