This hearty casserole is a crowd-pleaser! With tender steak, creamy cheddar cheese, and fluffy potatoes, it’s like a warm hug in a dish. Plus, it cooks slowly, filling your home with a wonderful aroma!
Let’s be real, who can resist cheese and steak together? I love serving this with a simple salad for a nice balance. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and relax—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Chuck and sirloin are excellent choices for this recipe as they become tender when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use flank steak or even ground beef for a different texture.
Potatoes: I love using russet potatoes, but Yukon Golds work well too. If you’re avoiding carbs, consider using cauliflower instead. It may change the flavor slightly but will still be delicious!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onions and garlic add lots of flavor, but you can substitute with onion powder (about 1 teaspoon of each) in a pinch. You won’t get the texture, but the taste will still be good.
Sour Cream: Sour cream gives creaminess and tang. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or even cottage cheese for a different taste but similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is great, of course! If you’re looking for a slightly different taste, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for some extra kick.
How Do I Ensure My Steak Turns Out Tender?
Getting tender steak from a slow cooker requires a few key steps. First, choose the right cut of meat; chuck or sirloin are your best bets. Cutting the beef into uniform cubes, around 1-inch, helps it cook evenly.
- Brown the steak in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds flavor!
- Ensure there’s enough liquid (like beef broth) to create steam and keep it moist during cooking.
- Keep the lid on while it cooks; this preserves moisture and heat.
- Cook on low for the longer time (6-8 hours) for the best tenderness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1.5 lbs beef steak (such as chuck or sirloin), cubed
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, it simmers in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed steak, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to make sure the steak and vegetables are evenly coated with the seasonings.
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the steak and vegetable mixture into the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the top. This will help everything cook nicely and add great flavor.
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the steak is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
4. Add Creaminess and Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it well to combine everything beautifully.
5. Melting the Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, cover it again, and allow it to melt for the last 15 minutes of cooking. This will create a wonderful cheesy topping!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, garnish your delicious casserole with fresh chopped parsley. Then, dig in and enjoy your hearty steak and cheddar potato casserole!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef steak with chicken, pork, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly: chicken should cook for about 4-5 hours on low, while pork might take a bit longer depending on the cut.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up to step 4, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time when you’re ready to cook it in the slow cooker to ensure everything is heated through and tender.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions until heated through or warm gently on the stovetop. You can also add a splash of beef broth if the casserole seems dry during reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This hearty casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you want something more filling, try serving it with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the delicious sauce!
