Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

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There are meals you make once and forget, and then there are meals that immediately etch themselves into your cooking repertoire forever. This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is absolutely in the latter category. I first tried this out on a chilly weeknight when I wanted something hearty and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The result? A creamy, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that had everyone at the table going back for seconds.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the way it makes the most of humble ingredients. Slow-cooked steak becomes tender and flavorful, while the potatoes soften into creamy layers, perfectly accented by sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like you spent hours lovingly preparing it, even though your slow cooker does most of the work.

I love how versatile and family-friendly this casserole is. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy Sundays, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. If you love comfort food classics with a twist, you’ll also enjoy my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts and Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

This recipe offers all the joys of a comforting casserole with very little effort. You’ll love the rich layers of steak and potatoes, infused with cheddar cheese and seasoned to perfection. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, giving you a fuss-free yet deeply flavorful dish. It’s also easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it both flexible and foolproof.

Ingredients

Steak: The star of this dish, steak adds richness and heartiness. I prefer using sirloin or chuck for their tenderness when slow-cooked.

Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best here. They provide a creamy texture and absorb all the flavors beautifully.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a bold, tangy flavor that complements the savory steak perfectly.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth. It also infuses the entire dish with aromatic flavor during the slow cook.

Garlic: For an extra punch of savory flavor, garlic is non-negotiable.

Beef Broth: Helps keep everything moist and enhances the beefy flavor.

Heavy Cream: Adds richness and gives the casserole its luscious, creamy texture.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout.

Olive Oil or Butter: For searing the steak before adding it to the slow cooker, which locks in flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Season your steak pieces with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the steak with a bit of olive oil or butter until browned on all sides. This step locks in the flavor and adds depth to the dish.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Start by layering half the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add half the onions, garlic, steak, and cheese. Repeat the layers. Pour beef broth and heavy cream over everything.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for about 3.5 to 4 hours. The steak should be tender, and the potatoes fully cooked and infused with flavor.

Step 4: Add Final Cheese Layer

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle a bit more cheddar on top and let it melt into a bubbly golden layer.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the casserole into bowls or onto plates. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a bit of color and freshness.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This casserole is endlessly adaptable. If you’re not a fan of steak, try using ground beef or even shredded chicken. Vegetarian? Swap the meat out for sauteed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty meatless version. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a spicy Pepper Jack to dial up the flavor. For a richer broth, substitute beef broth with mushroom stock or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Potatoes can be replaced with sweet potatoes or even cauliflower florets for a low-carb option. You could toss in veggies like peas, corn, or bell peppers if you’re looking to bulk up the casserole with more nutrients. And if you want a bit of crunch, top it off with crispy onions or crumbled bacon before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this casserole piping hot with a cool, crisp green salad on the side. It also goes well with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. For a Southern-inspired twist, consider pairing it with cornbread or biscuits. A glass of red wine, like a Merlot or Cabernet, complements the richness of the dish perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider works wonderfully too.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If the casserole has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well—just let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything the night before and refrigerate the ingredients in the slow cooker insert. Just pop it into the slow cooker in the morning and set it to cook.

What cut of steak is best for Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?

Sirloin and chuck are both great options. They become tender and flavorful after hours in the slow cooker.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese in Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?

You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and offers a smoother texture.

Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole without cream?

Absolutely. You can use a mixture of milk and a bit of flour to mimic the creamy texture if you prefer a lighter version.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved the hearty flavors of this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole, you should definitely try my Shipwreck Dinner. It’s another satisfying one-pan meal that brings together beef, potatoes, and vegetables for a comforting bite. Or explore my Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole for a vibrant, flavor-packed twist.

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