If you’re in the mood for pure comfort food that melts in your mouth, the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is destined to become your new family favorite. Imagine layers of tender steak and buttery potatoes, kissed by the richness of cheddar and enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce. Every forkful is bursting with cozy, savory goodness — all while being practically effortless thanks to your trusty slow cooker. This crowd-pleasing casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of classic ingredients can create such an unforgettable dish. Each element brings its own flair to the table — from creamy Yukon Golds to the sharp, nutty cheddar, every bite is packed with flavor, color, and irresistibly hearty texture.

Sirloin or Ribeye Steak (1 ½ lbs, cubed): Choose well-marbled steak for extra tenderness and flavor in every bite.
Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes (4 large, thinly sliced): These potatoes hold their shape perfectly and turn delightfully creamy as they cook.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, freshly grated): Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly and adds a tangy, cheesy finish.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Lends richness and a luxurious mouthfeel to the casserole.
Beef Broth (1 cup): Enhances the meaty flavor and keeps everything moist and juicy.
Onion (1 medium, finely diced): Adds sweetness and savory depth as it cooks down.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the casserole with aromatic warmth.
Butter (2 tbsp): Used for searing the steak, bringing out irresistible caramelized notes.
Smoked Paprika: Sprinkling in just a dash gives a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
Black Pepper: Cracks of black pepper provide a gentle kick and balance the richness.
Salt: Essential for seasoning each layer and tying all the flavors together.

How to Make Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Season the cubed steak generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear the steak in the hot skillet until browned on all sides — this quick step locks in flavor and makes a huge difference when the casserole comes together. Once the steak is evenly browned, remove it from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Aromatics

Grab your slow cooker and create the first delicious layer using half of the sliced potatoes. Scatter over half of the diced onion and minced garlic, making sure they’re evenly distributed. These flavors will gently melt into each layer, infusing everything with hearty aroma.

Step 3: Add the Steak and Remaining Vegetables

Next, spoon the perfectly seared steak directly over the layered potatoes, then repeat with the rest of the potatoes, onion, and garlic. This double layering technique allows all the flavors to mingle beautifully as they cook low and slow.

Step 4: Pour in the Creamy Sauce

Pour the beef broth and heavy cream evenly over your layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Take a quick taste of your layers, and if desired, sprinkle in another pinch of salt and black pepper to ensure every bite pops with flavor.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Cook

Sprinkle the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top, making sure every inch is blanketed in cheesy goodness. Cover your slow cooker and set to low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The result? Dreamy, tender potatoes and steak wrapped in gooey cheddar perfection.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take this comforting favorite over the top. A scattering of sliced green onions, a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika, or even a little chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up your dinner table.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or fluffy dinner rolls for those irresistible cheese-sopping moments. It’s a dish that pairs seamlessly with light, vibrant sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Try loading the casserole into individual ramekins for cute, personal portions at parties, or dish it up family-style from the slow cooker for a rustic, cozy look. You can also serve each portion over a bed of sautéed spinach or greens for a fun twist and a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole are a dream! Let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer into an airtight container. It will keep perfectly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making weeknight lunches something to look forward to.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze portions of this casserole for future cravings. Once cooled completely, divide into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Stored this way, the casserole will taste delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the whole lot in the oven at 350°F (covered with foil) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to revive that creamy texture, and don’t forget a little extra cheese on top before serving!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a unique twist on your Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole. Each cheese will bring its own personality to the final dish.

Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional for this casserole. Leaving the skins on adds rustic charm, extra nutrients, and great texture, especially if you’re using Yukon Gold potatoes. If you prefer ultra-creamy results, go ahead and peel!

Is it possible to prepare everything the night before?

Yes! You can slice the potatoes, dice the onions, and cube the steak ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, assemble in the slow cooker and cook as instructed.

Can I make this casserole in the oven instead?

If you’re pressed for time or don’t have a slow cooker, assemble the casserole in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and everything is bubbly.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby spinach make wonderful additions to the Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole. Just layer them in along with your potatoes and onions for even more flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about coming home to a bubbling pot of Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole — the whole house smells fantastic, and every bite feels like a warm hug. Don’t wait for a special occasion; treat yourself and your loved ones to this outrageously tasty, cozy favorite. You’ll be so glad you did!

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 24 reviews

Author: Chloe
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes on high or 8 hours 20 minutes on low
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and hearty Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole that is sure to please your family’s taste buds. Layers of tender steak, thinly sliced potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese meld together in the slow cooker for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Sear the Steak: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add cubed steak seasoned with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear until browned on all sides. Remove from heat.
Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes followed by half of the diced onion and minced garlic. Add the seared steak on top and finish with the remaining potatoes, onion, and garlic.
Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour beef broth and heavy cream evenly over the layers; sprinkle additional salt and pepper if desired.
Top with Cheese: Top with freshly grated cheddar cheese.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American