Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of seasoned steak, creamy cheddar cheese, and rustic chunks of potatoes. Perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, this dump-and-go recipe is a true family favorite. With minimal prep and the magic of the slow cooker, it delivers deep, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. As the ingredients simmer low and slow, the beef becomes fork-tender while the potatoes soak up every drop of the cheesy, savory sauce. It’s a complete meal in one pot, ideal for chilly nights or whenever you need a satisfying dish that practically cooks itself. Whether served with a simple salad or a warm slice of bread, this casserole is pure comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat or sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 5 medium Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Preparation
Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear the cubed beef for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. This step is optional but adds deeper flavor to the final dish.
Step 2:
Add the seared steak to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Top with diced potatoes and chopped onion.
Step 3:
In a medium bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
Step 4:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the steak and potatoes in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients.
Step 5:
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3½–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fully cooked.
Step 6:
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and allow the cheese to melt into the casserole. Stir gently before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Variation
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of cheddar or cream of onion for a different flavor base.
- Add sliced mushrooms or green peas to bulk up the casserole with vegetables.
- Use pepper jack or gouda cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier or smokier flavor.
- Add crumbled cooked bacon during the last 30 minutes for a bacon cheeseburger-style twist.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a richer, slightly sweet contrast.
Cooking Note
Browning the steak before adding it to the slow cooker is optional but highly recommended. It helps lock in juices and enhances the depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the final result may be slightly less rich. If the casserole appears too thick at the end of cooking, stir in a splash of warm broth to loosen it before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole on its own or pair it with warm dinner rolls, garlic toast, or a green salad. It also works well with a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli. For extra indulgence, top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese or crispy fried onions. It’s ideal for feeding a hungry family or serving at a potluck or casual gathering.
Tips
- Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
- Stir once halfway through cooking if your slow cooker allows it.
- To make this a freezer meal, prep all ingredients (except cheese) into a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before slow cooking.
- For added richness, use heavy cream instead of sour cream.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3½ hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 34g
Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Can I use uncooked steak without browning?
- Yes. While browning adds flavor, you can skip this step to save time. The steak will still become tender in the slow cooker.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes. Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking the next day.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
- You can use cream of chicken, cream of cheddar, or make a homemade roux-based sauce with beef broth and cream.
Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
- Yes, cook and drain the ground beef first before adding it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.
Can I cook it on the stovetop instead of slow cooker?
- Yes. Sauté all ingredients in a large pot, add broth and sauce, cover, and simmer on low for about 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally until potatoes are tender.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, a warm, cheesy, and filling dish that’s packed with flavor and made effortlessly in the crockpot. With tender beef, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese, it’s a meal that satisfies both the belly and the soul. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even holiday potlucks, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious. Simple ingredients and hands-off cooking make it a go-to choice for busy days when you still want something hearty and homemade. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular rotation in your kitchen.