If you have a soft spot for hearty, comforting meals that marry the rich flavors of tender steak and creamy cheddar with buttery potatoes, then you are about to fall head over heels for this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a soul-warming feast that’s perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready without the fuss. Imagine juicy, perfectly seared sirloin cubes nestled in a creamy, cheesy potato mixture, slow-cooked until everything melds into pure deliciousness. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and I can’t wait to share the secret to making it with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe plays a pivotal role in building layers of flavor and creating the perfect texture. The combination is simple but each element brings something important to the table, creating a cohesive and irresistible dish.
- Sirloin steak (1 1/2 pounds): Cubed into 1-inch pieces and seared to lock in juices for rich, tender bites throughout the casserole.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for searing the steak, adding a depth of warm flavor and a golden crust.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances and balances the natural flavors of the steak and potatoes.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mild heat and aromatic kick to the dish.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a subtle, savory undertone that complements both the steak and cheesy sauce.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (2 pounds): Peeled and diced, they offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor that shines when slow-cooked.
- Yellow onion (1 small, chopped): Infuses sweetness and depth during the slow cooking process.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Contributes to a luscious, tangy creaminess that binds everything together.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the sour cream mixture, creating a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded, divided): Provides that unforgettable cheesy punch; part mixed in and part melted on top.
- Fresh chives or green onions (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, zesty finish and pretty pop of green.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Prepares your slow cooker to keep the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak
Start by seasoning your steak cubes with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning mix highlights the beef’s natural flavor. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and then sear the steak cubes until they’re beautifully browned on all sides, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking the steak completely—searing is all about building flavor and locking in the juices before slow cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Spray the inside of your slow cooker generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then layer the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and chopped yellow onion at the bottom. This base will cook down to tender perfection and soak up all those savory flavors.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream and whole milk until combined and smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This creamy mixture is the magic that turns the potatoes into a luscious cheesy delight.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Start Slow Cooking
Pour the sour cream and cheddar mixture over the potatoes and onions in the slow cooker, giving everything a gentle stir to fold it together evenly. Next, layer the seared steak cubes evenly on top—this way the steak juices will trickle down, flavoring the whole dish as it cooks. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the steak is cooked to perfection.
Step 5: Melt the Remaining Cheese
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole. Cover and let it melt into a golden, bubbly layer that ties the whole dish together wonderfully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe by sprinkling freshly chopped chives or green onions on top. This not only adds a lovely pop of color but also freshens up the rich flavors.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chives or green onions are my go-to for garnishing this casserole. They add a tender crunch and a mild oniony brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the potatoes and cheddar. For extra flair, you could also sprinkle some crispy cooked bacon bits or a dash of smoked paprika.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds balance. A tangy coleslaw also complements the deep cheese and beef flavors by providing a refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch, especially at dinner parties. You can also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for added richness or heat. Leftovers reimagined as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or a topping for baked potatoes? Yes, please!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a tasty second-day meal. Just be sure to cool the casserole completely before refrigeration to keep textures intact.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers after cooling. This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 15 to 20 minutes for oven reheating. Covering with foil while reheating in the oven will help maintain moisture and prevent the casserole from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this casserole?
Absolutely! While sirloin is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with ribeye, flank steak, or even leftover roast beef. Just cut the meat into evenly sized cubes for even cooking.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can swap the sour cream and cheese for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheddar shreds. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may differ slightly but will still be delicious.
Can I prepare this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of cooking, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just add the cheese topping during the last 15 minutes after slow cooking as usual.
What other cheeses can I use besides sharp cheddar?
Cheddar provides the perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness, but you can try Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or a smoky gouda to add complexity. Mixing cheeses is also a fun way to personalize this dish.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Of course! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can work beautifully. Just add vegetables that won’t release too much moisture, and chop them finely so they cook evenly with the potatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those truly satisfying dishes that makes weeknight dinners feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The comforting blend of tender steak, cheesy potatoes, and simple seasonings comes together effortlessly thanks to the slow cooker magic. I hope you give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy meal to share with family and friends!
Print
Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for an easy dinner. Tender cubes of sirloin steak are lightly seared and slow-cooked with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings. The casserole is finished with melted cheese and fresh chives for a flavorful and satisfying meal that requires minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables and Dairy
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Steak: Season the steak cubes with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 2–3 minutes, turning to brown all sides without cooking through.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add the diced potatoes and chopped onion evenly into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream and whole milk until smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the sour cream and cheese mixture over the potatoes and onions in the slow cooker. Stir to coat and combine evenly.
- Layer the Steak: Place the seared steak cubes evenly over the top of the potato mixture without stirring them in.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Cook until potatoes are tender and steak is cooked through.
- Add Remaining Cheese: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole, cover, and allow the cheese to melt.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, garnish the casserole with chopped fresh chives or green onions before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked crumbled bacon or a dash of hot sauce to the sour cream mixture.
- You can substitute sirloin steak with ground beef or leftover roast for variation.
- Make sure to spray the slow cooker well to avoid sticking.
- If you want to prepare ahead, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate; then cook in the slow cooker the next day.
