This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a hearty dish that’s perfect for busy days! It combines tender steak, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese all in one cozy pot.
Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing while it cooks. I love how easy it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and relax. Who doesn’t like a warm, cheesy meal waiting for them after a long day? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Chuck or sirloin are both great choices for this dish. If you want a leaner option, consider using flank steak or even ground beef. My personal favorite is chuck due to its rich flavor and tenderness after cooking.
Potatoes: I used regular white or yellow potatoes, but you can swap them for Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture. Sweet potatoes also work well for a twist on flavor.
Cream of Mushroom/Cream of Celery Soup: If you’re dairy-free or looking for a healthier alternative, try using a homemade cream sauce or a can of diced tomatoes. I sometimes use a blend of both for extra creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want a little kick. Mixing different cheeses can create a fun flavor combination!
How Do You Ensure the Steak is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender steak in this casserole is the slow cooking process. The longer you cook the beef, the more tender it becomes. Here’s how to achieve the best results:
- Season the steak cubes well before adding them to the slow cooker; this helps develop flavor.
- Make sure to layer the onions and potatoes first. This keeps the meat from directly touching the bottom, preventing burning.
- Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain moisture. Opening it too often lets heat escape and can extend cooking time.
- Check for tenderness toward the end of the recommended cooking time; it should easily break apart with a fork.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1.5 lbs beef steak (chuck or sirloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks in the slow cooker for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Allow a little extra time for the cheese to melt before serving. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
In a large bowl, combine the diced steak with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and minced garlic. Mix everything well so that the meat is evenly coated with the seasonings. This adds great flavor to your casserole!
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by placing the chopped onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help create a flavorful base for your casserole.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
Next, layer the diced potatoes evenly over the onions. Make sure they are spread out nicely so they cook evenly.
4. Add the Steak:
Now, take the seasoned steak cubes and add them on top of the potatoes. Don’t worry about mixing it up; the slow cooker will do the work during cooking!
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir this mixture until smooth, then pour it over the steak and potatoes in the slow cooker.
6. Cook it Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You want the steak and potatoes to be nice and tender when you’re ready to eat!
7. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover again to let the cheese melt and become deliciously gooey.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, garnish your casserole with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
Have a great time cooking and savoring this comforting casserole!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck or sirloin are great choices for this dish, you can also use other cuts like flank or round steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut’s tenderness, so check for doneness as needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom, you can substitute it with cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free option, try using a can of coconut milk mixed with cornstarch for thickness.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to help moisten it if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Sure! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and layer them in between the potatoes and steak. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables added.
