This Easy Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a warm and filling dish! With tender steak, creamy cheddar, and fluffy potatoes, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
I love tossing everything in the slow cooker and relaxing while it cooks. And the best part? Your kitchen will smell amazing while you wait! Who doesn’t love a cozy dinner? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin Steak: I prefer sirloin for its balance of tenderness and flavor, but you can swap it for chuck steak or even ground beef if you’re in a pinch. Just remember, ground beef will change the texture but can still be delicious!
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work great for this dish, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes are also good alternatives. They hold up well in the slow cooker and add a nice creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch of flavor. If you like a milder taste, feel free to use medium cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
Sour Cream: If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It will give you the same creaminess, plus a boost of protein!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can use cream of chicken or even a homemade version for a healthier choice. Just mix some sautéed mushrooms with cream and you’ve got a great alternative!
How Do You Ensure the Steak is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender steak lies in how long you cook it. Slow cooking at low heat allows the muscle fibers to break down, resulting in juicy, tender pieces. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Brown the steak in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for added flavor. Just sear it for a couple of minutes on each side.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! For the best results, stick to the recommended 6-7 hours on low.
By following these tips, your steak will come out tender and full of flavor every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1.5 pounds beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll then let it cook in the slow cooker for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Plus, there’s a quick finish of 15 minutes to melt that cheesy goodness on top. In total, expect about 7-8 hours from start to finish, but most of that time is hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
First, grab your slow cooker and give the insert a nice spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later!
2. Layer the Potatoes:
Next, take those diced potatoes and place them evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. They will create a tasty bed for all the great flavors to soak into!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chopped onion, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well combined. This mixture will add tons of flavor to your dish!
4. Coat the Steak:
Now add the beef sirloin cubes into the bowl with your sauce mixture. Stir everything together until the steak is nicely coated. This is where the magic happens!
5. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the steak and sauce mixture over the potatoes in the slow cooker. Spread it out evenly to ensure every potato and piece of steak gets that yummy sauce.
6. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’re looking for tender steak and cooked-through potatoes. The smell will be mouthwatering!
7. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt—this is the best part!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your casserole with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this warm, cheesy, and comforting meal!
Bon appétit! You’ve made an easy, hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sirloin steak with chuck roast for a more economical option. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using chicken or turkey, but adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks faster than beef.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the casserole without the gluten!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, assemble it in the slow cooker insert, cover with plastic wrap, and then freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If frozen after cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months.
