Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

If you crave hearty, comforting meals that feel indulgent yet are effortless to make, the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is your new go-to recipe. Tender, cubed steak layered with thinly sliced potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy blend of heavy cream and beef broth creates a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that practically cooks itself while you go about your day.

With a slow cooker, you don’t need to stand over a stove or worry about timing every element—just layer, set, and relax. By dinner time, you have a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and satisfaction, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weekend gatherings.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Minimal hands-on time: Prep in just 20 minutes and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Rich and indulgent: Tender steak, creamy layers of potatoes, and sharp cheddar create layers of flavor.
• Family-friendly: Satisfies picky eaters and hearty appetites alike.
• Versatile for gatherings: Easy to scale up or down depending on the number of guests.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep ingredients the night before and slow cook the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Casserole

• Perfectly tender steak: Searing locks in juices before slow cooking.
• Creamy, cheesy potatoes: The combination of heavy cream, cheddar, and broth makes a decadent, smooth texture.
• Savory flavor layers: Onions, garlic, and smoked paprika enhance the depth of flavor.
• Stress-free dinner: Just layer ingredients and cook—no constant checking needed.
• Comfort food elevated: Classic flavors in an easy, slow-cooker-friendly format.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves approximately 6 people, with all measurements carefully balanced for flavor.

Main 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

Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter

Seasonings

• Smoked paprika, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Pro Tip: Yukon Gold potatoes offer a creamier texture, while Russets provide a firmer structure. Freshly grated cheddar melts more evenly than pre-shredded.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet for searing steak
• Slow cooker (minimum 6-quart capacity recommended)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spoon for mixing liquids

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Sear the Steak

• Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season cubed steak with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
• Sear steak until browned on all sides, locking in juices and flavor.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

1. Start with half of the sliced potatoes as the bottom layer.
2. Add half of the diced onion and minced garlic over the potatoes.
3. Spread the seared steak evenly on top.
4. Finish with the remaining potatoes, onion, and garlic layered above the steak.

3. Add Liquids and Cheese

• Pour beef broth and heavy cream evenly over the layered ingredients.
• Sprinkle additional salt and black pepper as desired.
• Top with freshly grated cheddar cheese for a rich, melty layer.

4. Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly.

5. Serve

• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow layers to set slightly.
• Serve hot as a comforting main dish for dinner, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Potato variations: Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist, or mix Russet and Yukon Gold for texture contrast.
• Cheese options: Swap sharp cheddar for smoked cheddar or Gruyère for a richer flavor.
• Add vegetables: Layer in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a subtle kick.
• Make-ahead: Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. Cook the next day without thawing.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This casserole is savory, creamy, and hearty:

• Steak: Meaty and tender, enhanced by searing.
• Potatoes: Soft, creamy, and layered with flavor.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds richness and melty goodness.
• Onion & garlic: Provide depth and aromatic undertones.
• Smoked paprika: Introduces subtle smokiness without overpowering.

Suggested Pairings

• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans
• Crusty bread to soak up creamy layers

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 470
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg

Dietary Notes: High-protein, gluten-free, and indulgent comfort food.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep ingredients in advance: Slice potatoes and dice onions the night before.
• Store seared steak: Keep seared steak in the refrigerator until ready to layer.
• Slow cooker convenience: Combine everything in the morning and cook while you’re away from home.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, or even chuck steak cubes work. Adjust cooking time slightly if using thicker cuts.

2. Can I use frozen steak?
It’s best to thaw steak before searing to ensure even browning.

3. Can I add other cheeses?
Absolutely. Smoked cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella all melt beautifully.

4. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes. Assemble all layers except cheese, cover tightly, and freeze. Add cheese before slow cooking or reheating.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

• Make sure potatoes are sliced evenly.
• Use full-fat heavy cream for creaminess.
• Don’t lift the lid during cooking, especially early on.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep ingredients	20 min
Sear steak	10 min
Layer casserole	5 min
Slow cook on low	6–8 hrs
Slow cook on high	3–4 hrs
Rest and serve	5 min
Total	7 hrs 20 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and brightness.
• Pair with steamed vegetables or salad for balance.
• Offer crusty bread to scoop up cheesy, creamy layers.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Steak Casserole: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or smoked chipotle powder.
2. Vegetable-loaded: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between layers.
3. Cheese blend: Use a combination of cheddar and Gruyère for deeper flavor.
4. Low-fat version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt; reduce butter slightly.

Ingredient Spotlight

Steak

Provides rich protein and iron. Searing before slow cooking enhances flavor and locks in juices.

Potatoes

Russet potatoes are starchy and soft, Yukon Gold are buttery and creamy. Both absorb flavors beautifully.

Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar adds richness and melty indulgence. Freshly grated cheese integrates better than pre-shredded.

Smoked Paprika

Adds depth and subtle smokiness without overpowering other flavors.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Evenly slice potatoes for consistent cooking.
• Layer ingredients thoughtfully: heavier items like steak in the middle ensure even cooking.
• Don’t peek early; slow cooker heat escapes and may lengthen cooking time.
• Allow casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to set layers.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble without cheese, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Add cheese before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave in intervals or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	470
Protein	22 g
Carbs	36 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	3 g

Dietary Notes: High-protein, hearty, gluten-free comfort food. Adaptable for lower-fat or low-carb diets.

Expanded Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food: hearty, rich, and full of flavor, yet effortless thanks to the slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this dish requires minimal hands-on time but delivers maximum satisfaction.

With tender steak, creamy potatoes, melty cheddar, and the aromatic depth of onions, garlic, and smoked paprika, every bite is a warm, indulgent experience. Make it a weeknight staple or a weekend treat—you’ll love the simplicity, the flavor, and the fact that your slow cooker does most of the work.

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