Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender steak, creamy cheddar cheese, and hearty potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection. This casserole is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors with minimal hands-on preparation.
Ingredients:
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1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin or ribeye), cubed into bite-sized pieces
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4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), thinly sliced
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2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup beef broth
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1 medium onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
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Season the cubed steak with salt and pepper.
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In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and beef broth.
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Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
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Place a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
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Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
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Add the seasoned steak cubes as the next layer.
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Scatter the diced onions and minced garlic over the steak.
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Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
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Cook in the Slow Cooker:
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Pour the combined heavy cream and beef broth evenly over the layered ingredients.
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Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4–6 hours, or until the steak is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
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Serve and Garnish:
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Once the casserole is cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
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Calories: ~450 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 13g
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Cholesterol: 110mg
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Sodium: 400mg
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 3g
The Beauty of Slow Cooking
One of the key advantages of slow cooking is the ability to tenderize tougher cuts of meat and allow flavors to develop slowly over time. Unlike traditional methods, which require constant attention, slow cooking works its magic over several hours, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. The steak in this casserole, whether you choose sirloin or ribeye, becomes incredibly tender and juicy when cooked on low heat for an extended period. The potatoes, too, absorb the rich flavors from the beef and seasonings, creating a creamy and savory texture. The sharp cheddar cheese ties everything together, offering a delightful layer of flavor that complements the hearty steak and potatoes.
Slow cookers are perfect for busy individuals and families because they allow you to set everything up and then let the machine do the work. Once the ingredients are in the slow cooker, all you need to do is wait while it cooks on its own, freeing up time for other activities. Whether you’re working from home, running errands, or spending time with family, this hands-off cooking method makes meal prep incredibly convenient. Additionally, the slow cooker can hold a large amount of food, making it a great option for larger families, gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.
The Versatility of the Recipe
Another standout feature of the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is its versatility. While the recipe calls for sirloin or ribeye steak, you can easily swap in other cuts of beef or even substitute the steak for other meats like chicken or pork, depending on your preferences or what you have available. You could even try a vegetarian version by using plant-based meat alternatives or extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. The addition of potatoes ensures the dish remains hearty, but you could also experiment with other root vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or carrots for a slight variation in flavor and texture.
This recipe also lends itself well to personalization. If you like a bit of spice, adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can give it a flavorful kick. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano would elevate the flavor profile even further, adding an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese and steak. For those who enjoy extra flavor layers, you can incorporate a drizzle of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine into the broth for added depth. The slow cooker’s forgiving nature means you can experiment and adjust seasonings and ingredients to fit your unique taste preferences.
A Hearty, Balanced Meal
What makes this casserole a complete and satisfying meal is its combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The steak provides a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Potatoes, being rich in carbohydrates, give you the energy boost you need throughout the day, making this casserole an excellent option for dinner after a long day or for fueling up before a busy day ahead. Additionally, the heavy cream and cheddar cheese contribute healthy fats that provide satiation, keeping you full for hours after the meal.
The nutritional profile of this dish also offers several benefits. Potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Adding fiber to your diet can also support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. The garlic and onions in the casserole not only enhance flavor but are packed with health benefits, including their ability to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. The cheese, while a source of fat, also contains calcium and protein, both of which are crucial for strong bones and muscle function. Overall, this casserole is a well-rounded, balanced dish that’s perfect for satisfying a variety of nutritional needs while still delivering on flavor.
Ideal for Meal Prep and Leftovers
The Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. It stores well in the refrigerator for several days, allowing you to enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. The flavors actually improve the next day as they have more time to meld together, making it even more delicious as a leftover. Simply reheat the casserole in the microwave or on the stove, and you have a satisfying meal ready to go in minutes. For larger batches, it can also be frozen and reheated for a quick, comforting meal on a busy day. With a dish this hearty, you won’t have to worry about what’s for dinner the next day—just pull it out of the fridge or freezer, reheat, and enjoy.
A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food
When hosting a gathering, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual party, the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a surefire way to impress your guests. The combination of flavors and textures—from the tender steak to the creamy cheese and potatoes—makes it a dish everyone can enjoy. It’s filling, satisfying, and incredibly comforting, making it ideal for cooler months or any time you need a meal that brings people together. You can easily double the recipe to accommodate larger groups, and it’s even great for potlucks or gatherings where you want something hearty and flavorful.
For those looking to add some variety to the meal, pair the casserole with a light side salad, some fresh bread, or even roasted vegetables. The rich, cheesy casserole can be balanced with a fresh, crisp salad to create a well-rounded meal that appeals to everyone at the table.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a truly versatile, hearty, and flavorful dish that everyone in your family is sure to love. It brings together tender steak, creamy potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection for a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a gathering, this casserole delivers on both taste and convenience. With its simple ingredients and low-maintenance preparation, it’s a perfect choice for any occasion, proving that sometimes the best meals are the ones that take the least effort. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find that it quickly becomes a go-to favorite in your culinary rotation.