This hearty Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a warm hug in a bowl. It combines tender steak, creamy cheese, and fluffy potatoes—perfect for cozy nights!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. By dinner time, my kitchen smells amazing and everyone is ready to dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or chuck works well due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using flank steak or even ground beef as a substitute. Ground beef gives a different texture but still tastes great!
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They’re creamy and hold up well during cooking. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, feel free to swap in cauliflower florets for a lighter version.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re avoiding cream soups, try using homemade cream sauce or a mushroom broth mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken instead.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but you can also try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a milder taste. Vegan cheese is a good alternative if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Fully Cooked and Flavorful?
The key to a great casserole is layering and cooking properly. When you layer your ingredients, make sure to evenly distribute the meat and potatoes. This ensures everything cooks uniformly and absorbs the sauce flavor well.
- Mix the steak and potatoes well to coat them with onion flavor before layering.
- Cover the slow cooker while cooking to keep moisture in, which helps with tenderness.
- Don’t skip the final cheese melting step! It adds the perfect creamy finish. Just remember to add it about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak And Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs beef steak (such as sirloin or chuck), diced into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker casserole will take about 30 minutes to prepare and then 6 to 8 hours to cook. So, you can set it in the morning and have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat and Veggies:
In a large bowl, take your diced steak, chopped potatoes, and onion. Give it a good mix to make sure that the onion and potatoes are evenly distributed among the meat. This will add flavor to the whole dish!
2. Make the Sauce Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. This tasty sauce is what will make your casserole creamy and packed with flavor!
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Start by placing half of the potato and steak mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, pour half of the sauce mixture over this layer. Repeat with the remaining meat, potatoes, and sauce. You want to have nice layers to keep things flavorful and interesting!
4. Slow Cook It:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through. It’s worth the wait!
5. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Cover it again to let the cheese melt beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, take the lid off and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Now, scoop some out and enjoy your amazing casserole!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and chuck work great, you can also use other cuts like brisket or flank steak. Just make sure to dice them into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika to mimic the meaty flavor!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, just pop it into the slow cooker and adjust the cooking time if needed, as it might take a bit longer to heat through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.
