This Easy Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is comfort food at its best! It combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese, all cooked to perfection.
I love coming home to the smell of this dish wafting through the house. You just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its thing—easy peasy and oh-so-tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin or Steak: This is the star of the dish. I like using sirloin for its tenderness. You can substitute with chuck roast for a richer flavor or even a lean ground beef if that’s what you have on hand.
Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are my favorite for their creaminess, but you can use russet potatoes or new potatoes too! If you need a low-carb option, cauliflower florets work great.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar really adds a nice punch of flavor. If you want something milder, go for medium cheddar. Or you can mix it up and use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a twist!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use a cream of celery soup instead. You can even make your own by blending sautéed mushrooms with cream and a bit of broth.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is the best if you’ve got it. If not, low-sodium canned broth works well. Vegetable broth can also be a good alternative for a beefy flavor.
How Do I Get the Steak Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender steak in slow cooker recipes is low and slow cooking! Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Cut the steak into uniform bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Season the steak well before adding it to the slow cooker; this builds flavor.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Low heat helps break down the meat fibers, making it more tender.
- For extra flavor, consider searing the steak in a pan for a few minutes before placing it in the slow cooker—it adds a nice depth to the final dish!
Don’t rush it! Slow cooking not only makes the steak tender but also allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for enhanced beef flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and then a leisurely 6-8 hours on low in the slow cooker, or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by cutting the beef sirloin or steak into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, season the pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will help infuse great flavor into the meat.
2. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Lightly grease your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking. This makes cleanup easier later!
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Evenly place the diced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Next, add the chopped onion over the potatoes. This helps the onion flavor mix beautifully with the potatoes as they cook.
4. Add the Seasoned Steak:
Now, layer the seasoned steak cubes over the potatoes and onions. Make sure to spread them out for even cooking.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). This will be your creamy sauce that ties everything together!
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the steak and potatoes, making sure everything is well coated.
7. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The key is to cook until the steak is tender and the potatoes are fully cooked through.
8. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt beautifully.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked, serve it up hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your hearty and comforting steak and cheddar potato casserole!
This dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy evening at home. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef sirloin is recommended for its tenderness, you can use chuck roast for a richer flavor. For a lighter option, consider using chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist!
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can substitute it with cream of celery or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms blended with cream and some broth. This will keep the creamy texture while adding different flavors!
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to toss in vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans for more nutrients and flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many might change the cooking time slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
