Hearty Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

 

✅️ Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

If you crave warm, comforting dinners that practically make themselves, this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole will quickly become a favorite. Imagine tender steak bites, layers of creamy potatoes, and melty cheddar—slow-cooked to perfection for a rich, satisfying meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 6–8 hours (Low) or 3–4 hours (High) • Serves: 6

✅️ Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient below includes a short note explaining its role in the dish.

• 🔹️ 1.5 pounds beef steak (sirloin or flank, cut into bite-sized pieces) — adds hearty, meaty richness and becomes tender as it slow-cooks.
• 🔹️ 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced — provide the creamy, starchy base that absorbs the savory juices.
• 🔹️ 1 medium onion, diced — adds sweetness and depth that balances the richness.
• 🔹️ 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese — melts into the layers for gooey, savory flavor.
• 🔹️ 1 cup beef broth — supplies savory moisture and helps the potatoes cook through evenly.
• 🔹️ 1 cup heavy cream — creates a luxurious, silky sauce that coats every bite.
• 🔹️ 2 cloves garlic, minced — brings aromatic complexity.
• 🔹️ 1 tsp dried thyme — adds earthy, herbal notes that complement the steak.
• 🔹️ 1 tsp paprika — lends gentle warmth and a golden hue.
• 🔹️ Salt & pepper, to taste — essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
• 🔹️ Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) — brightens the finished dish with color and freshness.

✅️ Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to assemble and cook your casserole.

➡️ Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

👉Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces. Season thoroughly with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. The seasoning builds flavor and helps the meat develop depth during slow cooking.

➡️ Step 2: Layer the Casserole

👉Lightly grease your slow cooker to prevent sticking.

• ◾️ Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
• ◾️ Add half of the diced onion and half of the seasoned steak.
• ◾️ Sprinkle with half the shredded cheddar cheese.
• ◾️ Repeat once more and finish with the remaining cheese on top.

➡️ Step 3: Mix the Sauce

👉In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup beef broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 2 cloves minced garlic until combined. This sauce will soak through the layers and become beautifully creamy as it cooks.

➡️ Step 4: Pour the Sauce

👉Evenly pour the sauce over the layered casserole, making sure it reaches between the slices so the potatoes cook evenly.

➡️ Step 5: Cook the Casserole

👉Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak is cooked through. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a luscious texture.

➡️ Step 6: Serve and Garnish

👉Gently stir to combine the layers (avoid mashing). Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color.

✅️ Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is adored for its:

• 🔹️ Minimal hands-on time — assemble and let the slow cooker do the work.
• 🔹️ Deep, comforting flavor — tender beef, creamy potatoes, and sharp cheddar in every bite.
• 🔹️ Family-friendly — perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy dinner.
• 🔹️ Easy cleanup — one slow cooker is the main vessel.

✅️ Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• ➡️ Choose the right cut: Sirloin or flank steak holds up well in slow cooking and stays tender.
• ➡️ Slice potatoes evenly: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to ensure consistent thickness and even cooking.
• ➡️ Use sharp cheddar: For bold flavor and excellent melting quality.
• ➡️ Avoid over-stirring: Gently fold after cooking to keep the layered texture intact.
• ➡️ Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit 5–10 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly for easier serving.

✅️ Serving Suggestions

Complete the meal with these complementary sides:

• 🔹️ A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut the richness.
• 🔹️ Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for color and texture contrast.
• 🔹️ Warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• 🔹️ A glass of bold red wine if you want to elevate the meal.

✅️ Final Thoughts

Comfort food perfection: This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is hearty, creamy, cheesy, and effortless. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you'll get a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Try it on a busy evening or for a relaxed weekend dinner—it's sure to become a staple.

Print Recipe

Recipe notes: You can adapt this recipe by swapping half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce (it may be slightly less rich), or add 1 cup sliced mushrooms for extra umami. For a gluten-free version, verify your beef broth is GF.