Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is just what you need. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together around the dinner table. The combination of tender steak, creamy cheddar cheese, and perfectly sliced potatoes makes it a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, it requires minimal effort—just layer everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic!

What I love about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it to suit your family’s tastes while still enjoying that rich, satisfying flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this dish will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Just layer the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and relax while dinner cooks itself!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and hearty flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prepping! Assemble it in advance and cook when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of steak, cheese, and potatoes creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this recipe, you’ll find simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. No complicated shopping lists here—just good food that warms the soul!

For the Casserole

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cubed
• 4 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• smoked paprika
• black pepper
• salt

Variations

This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Swap out cheddar for gouda or pepper jack if you want a little kick.
• Try different meats: Use chicken or even ground beef instead of steak for a new twist.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a low-sodium broth.

How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Step 1: Sear the Steak

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the cubed steak seasoned with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Searing the steak until browned on all sides enhances its flavor and creates a delicious crust. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Layer Your Ingredients

In your slow cooker, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes followed by half of the diced onion and minced garlic. Next, add the seared steak on top. Finish with the remaining potatoes, onion, and garlic layers. This layering technique ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Pour in Creamy Goodness

Pour the beef broth and heavy cream evenly over all the layers; sprinkle additional salt and pepper if desired. This mixture will create a rich sauce as it cooks—trust me; you won’t want to skip this step!

Step 4: Cheese It Up!

Top everything off with freshly grated cheddar cheese. As it melts throughout cooking, it will blend beautifully with all those delicious flavors below.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender. The aroma wafting through your home during cooking will have everyone eagerly awaiting mealtime!

And there you have it—a delightful Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole that’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Creating a perfect Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is easy with a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to enhance your cooking experience.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opting for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye ensures your casserole will be juicy and flavorful. These cuts are well-marbled, which enhances their tenderness during slow cooking.

• Uniform potato slices: Cutting your potatoes into even slices allows for consistent cooking. This helps prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain firm, ensuring a delightful texture throughout.

• Season as you go: Don’t hesitate to season each layer as you build your casserole. This layered approach allows every bite to be bursting with flavor, resulting in a more savory and satisfying dish.

• Experiment with add-ins: Adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms not only increases the nutritional value but also adds depth to the flavor profile. You can easily customize your casserole based on what you have on hand or prefer!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. This small step ensures that each portion holds together beautifully on your plate.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Serving your Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are a few ideas to present this delicious dish in an inviting way.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and vibrant color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds creaminess and tang, balancing out the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli offers a healthy contrast to the rich casserole and provides a nice crunch.
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness to your meal, making for a perfect balance.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness while adding depth to your meal; their crispy edges make them irresistible!
• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for those who love to soak up every last bit of creamy sauce—it’s always a hit!

By incorporating these garnishes and side dishes, you’ll create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm, hearty dish any night of the week with minimal fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool down before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use different types of cheese in Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese gives a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole on high?

When cooked on high, this casserole will be ready in approximately 3-4 hours. Just make sure your potatoes are tender before serving!

Can I add vegetables to my Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Just layer them in with the other ingredients for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, you’ll find that this casserole is sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to try it out—happy cooking!