✅ Cozy, hearty, and ultra-comforting
✅ Slow cooker convenience
✅ Perfect for family dinners and cold nights
Introduction
When you’re craving a warm, filling, and deeply satisfying dinner, this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole delivers everything you’re looking for. Tender, slow-cooked steak melts into layers of soft, buttery potatoes, all coated in a rich, creamy cheddar sauce that feels like pure comfort in every bite.
This dish is the kind of meal that makes the house smell amazing while it cooks — and the best part is that it requires minimal effort. Just layer, season, and let the slow cooker do the work. By dinnertime, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that tastes like it simmered on the stove all day.
It’s perfect for:
- Busy weeknights
- Cozy winter meals
- Feeding hungry families
- Meal prep
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 lbs (700–900g) beef stew meat or diced sirloin steak
- 6 medium gold potatoes, thinly sliced (peels optional)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheddar Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- Salt + pepper, to taste
Timing
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high) |
| Total Time | Up to ~8 hours |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
In a bowl, toss the steak with:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
Set aside.
Step 2: Layer Into the Slow Cooker
Place half the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
Top with half the onions and half the steak.
Repeat with remaining potatoes, onions, and steak.
Sprinkle minced garlic over the top.
Step 3: Make the Cheddar Sauce
In a saucepan, heat:
- Butter
- Beef broth
- Heavy cream
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Whisk in cornstarch slurry to thicken.
When slightly thickened, stir in:
- Cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper
Whisk until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Pour & Cook
Pour cheddar sauce evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–8 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
Steak should be tender and potatoes soft.
Step 5: Serve
Top with extra cheddar + chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy the cozy goodness.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 32g |
Healthier & Dietary Alternatives
| Goal | Swap |
|---|---|
| Lower Carb | Use cauliflower florets instead of potatoes |
| Lower Fat | Use half & half + reduce cheese to 1 cup |
| Gluten-Free | Recipe is naturally GF — just check broth label |
| Extra Veggies | Add sliced mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers |
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- A fresh garden salad
- Garlic dinner rolls or cornbread
- Sautéed asparagus
This casserole also reheats beautifully — great for next-day lunches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Potatoes come out firm | Slice thin & use yellow/gold potatoes, not russet |
| Cheese sauce separates | Don’t boil cream — heat gently |
| Meat turns tough | Cook low and slow for best tenderness |
| Casserole too thin | Add extra cornstarch slurry during the last hour |
Storing Tips
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days, stored airtight
- Freezer: Up to 2 months (cool completely before freezing)
- Reheat: Stove or microwave, add splash of broth or cream to restore texture
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is everything you want in a comfort meal — rich, creamy, hearty, and completely satisfying. With tender steak, buttery potatoes, and a velvety cheddar sauce, it’s the kind of dish that makes any evening feel cozy and warm.
Make it once — and it will become one of your family’s favorite slow cooker dinners.
FAQs
1. Can I use shredded cheese instead of block cheddar?
Block cheddar melts better — pre-shredded can be grainy, but still works if needed.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of steak?
Yes — use chicken thighs and reduce cook time by 30 minutes.
3. Do I have to make the cheese sauce separately?
Yes — it gives a smoother and creamier result than adding everything directly to the slow cooker.
4. Can I add bacon?
Absolutely — sprinkle cooked bacon on top before serving.
Leave a Reply