Slow Cooker Steak Cheddar Potato

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is pure cold weather comfort. This dish is all about turning beefy goodness and tender potatoes into a cheesy showstopper while your slow cooker does the work. It is a lifesaver for busy nights and a crowd-pleaser with zero fuss.

I first made this casserole for a family potluck when I was juggling a toddler and a newborn. That night there was not a single scoop left

Ingredients

• Beef stew meat or sirloin steak, cut into bite sized pieces: Provides hearty protein and becomes melt in your mouth tender in the slow cooker. Look for well marbled meat for the richest flavor
• Salt and pepper: Enhances all the savory notes. Sprinkle generously for max taste
• Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and adds subtle richness. Choose extra virgin if possible
• Large potatoes, peeled and diced: Bring creamy texture and mild sweetness. Yukon golds hold their shape best
• Onion, diced: Balances rich meat and develops natural sweetness. Choose yellow or sweet onions for best results
• Garlic, minced: Deepens flavor profile. Fresh garlic makes all the difference
• Beef broth: Adds savory depth and keeps everything juicy. Use low sodium if you want more control over saltiness
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings zippy umami and rounds out the meaty flavors
• Dried thyme: Earthy herbal backbone. Use fresh if you have it
• Paprika: Gives mild warmth and inviting color. Try smoked paprika for extra depth
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection. Sharp cheddar brings more punch. Choose a block and shred it yourself for best melt
• Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish: Invites brightness and color on top. Choose perky bunches for the prettiest sprinkle

Instructions

Sear the Steak:

Brown the seasoned beef in hot olive oil for about three to four minutes until all sides form a deep golden crust. This step locks in flavor and adds richness to the final casserole but you can skip it if you are short on time

Assemble in the Slow Cooker:

Layer diced potatoes onion garlic seared beef broth Worcestershire sauce dried thyme and paprika into your slow cooker. Stir well so that the seasonings and broth coat everything evenly

Cook:

Set your slow cooker to low for six to seven hours or high for three to four hours. Until the beef falls apart easily with a fork and potatoes are soft and fluffy. Resist the urge to open the lid often as it slows down cooking

Add Cheese:

Scatter shredded cheddar right over the cooked casserole about fifteen minutes before serving. Put the lid back on and let it melt into gooey drifts

Serve:

Lift the lid and finish with a fresh shower of parsley or thyme for color. Serve hot straight from the pot

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Worcestershire sauce is my not so secret hero here Its tang gives life to both beef and potatoes and I always reach for it when I want a dish to taste more homey My kids still ask for the story about how the crockpot once slid off the counter with the very first test batch It survived the fall lunch was saved and the recipe became legend

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days Warm portions in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth to keep things moist For longer storage wrap individual servings tightly and freeze for up to two months Label so you remember the hearty reward waiting down the line

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap sweet potatoes for half or all of the potatoes for a touch of sweetness Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese works if you are low on cheddar You can also toss in frozen peas or corn with the cheese for a bit more veggie power

Serving Suggestions

Pile this casserole into bowls on chilly nights or pair it with a green salad for extra crunch I also love serving it alongside steamed broccoli or buttered green beans The golden cheesy crust and soft steak make it a real centerpiece at any potluck

Cultural Historical Context

This casserole is an American riff on old fashioned meat and potatoes with a nod to the classic English cottage pie The addition of cheddar cheese gives it a cozy Midwest vibe and slow cooking brings out homestyle flavors It has been a favorite for get togethers and family dinners for generations

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This casserole is all about big flavor with easy comfort Every bite is proof that simple ingredients can make family memories

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of beef works best for this casserole?

Stew meat or sirloin steak are excellent choices, as they become tender after slow cooking.

→ Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and refrigerate the ingredients the night before for easy assembly in the morning.

→ How can I ensure the beef stays moist?

Searing the beef before slow cooking and cooking it in broth keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.

→ What type of potatoes should I use?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for a soft, creamy texture in the finished dish.

→ Is it necessary to add cheese at the end?

Adding cheddar at the end lets it melt perfectly over the dish, providing a creamy, flavorful finish.

→ Can this be made on high heat?

Yes, cook on high for 3-4 hours, or low for 6-7 hours, based on your schedule and preference.