Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you’ve come to the right place! Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is one of those recipes that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s packed with tender steak, creamy cheddar, and hearty potatoes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting family gatherings. The best part? You can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do all the work while you enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.
This casserole has been a favorite in my home for years. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: Just layer your ingredients in the slow cooker—it’s that simple!
- Family-friendly appeal: This hearty casserole is loved by both kids and adults alike.
- Comforting flavors: The combination of steak and cheddar is undeniably delicious.
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let it cook while you go about your day.
- Versatile options: Easily adapt the recipe with different veggies or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully in this casserole. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store.
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
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and try these fun variations:
- Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a low-fat alternative if you prefer something lighter.
- Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to turn up the heat!
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Step 1: Sear the Steak
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add cubed steak seasoned with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Searing until browned on all sides adds depth of flavor to your dish; don’t skip this step! Once done, remove from heat.
Step 2: Layer Your Ingredients
In your slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes followed by half of the diced onion and minced garlic. Then add the seared steak on top before finishing with the remaining potatoes, onion, and garlic. This layering creates a beautiful presentation when it’s done cooking!
Step 3: Add Creaminess
Pour beef broth and heavy cream evenly over the layers; sprinkle additional salt and pepper if desired. This will ensure every bite is rich and creamy—just how we want it!
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Top everything off with freshly grated cheddar cheese. This melty goodness will bring all those flavors together beautifully as it cooks.
Step 5: Cook Low & Slow
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender. The longer cooking time allows all those wonderful flavors to mingle together perfectly.
And there you have it! Enjoy this delightful Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole with loved ones around your table. Each bite promises comfort and satisfaction—just what we all need after a long day!
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Making a delicious Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole can be even easier with a few simple tips to enhance the flavors and texture!
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Sear Your Meat: Taking the time to brown the cubed steak in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and adds a delightful depth to the dish. This caramelization process creates a richer, more complex taste.
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Uniform Potato Slices: Ensure your potato slices are evenly cut. This helps them cook uniformly, preventing some from being undercooked while others become mushy. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving consistent thickness.
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Layer Wisely: When layering ingredients, alternate between meat, potatoes, onions, and cheese. This not only makes for an aesthetically pleasing presentation but also ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully as they cook.
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Add Veggies for Variety: Consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the layers. They add flavor, color, and nutritional value to your casserole, making it even heartier without much extra effort.
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Let It Rest Before Serving: After cooking, allow the casserole to sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve without everything falling apart.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Serving this comforting casserole is a breeze! With its rich flavors and creamy textures, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present your dish beautifully.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and vibrant green color that complements the richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color contrast to your rich casserole.
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing offers a refreshing balance to the hearty casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover cheesy goodness on your plate!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots or zucchini bring additional flavors while keeping the meal wholesome and colorful.
Now you’re all set to enjoy a delightful Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Transfer leftovers to 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 bags.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of cream if it seems dry.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole that might help you out!
Can I use different types of cheese in this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a delicious sharpness, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend for added flavor.
How do I ensure my potatoes cook evenly in the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?
Slice your potatoes uniformly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Thinner slices will cook faster, so adjust according to your preference for texture.
How long can I keep leftovers from the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat them thoroughly!
Can I add vegetables to the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes as your potatoes for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find as much joy in making this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings family together. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends who will love it too. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re craving a hearty dish that embodies comfort and deliciousness, look no further than this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole. Perfectly tender beef mingles with layers of creamy cheddar and fluffy potatoes, creating a satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Simply layer your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. This recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Serve it with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete and nourishing dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Sear the cubed steak in a skillet with melted butter until browned on all sides; remove from heat.
- In the slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes followed by half of the diced onion and garlic. Add the seared steak on top, then finish with remaining potatoes, onions, and garlic.
- Pour beef broth and heavy cream over the layers; season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Top with freshly grated cheddar cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
