🎉 Introduction
If you’re craving a meal that’s rich, cheesy, and hearty enough to feed a hungry family, this Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the answer. Tender steak, creamy potatoes, melted cheddar, and a touch of garlic come together in a slow cooker to create a comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
This recipe takes the classic flavors of steak and potatoes and transforms them into a warm, cheesy casserole that practically cooks itself. With just a little prep, the slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with a dish that’s both satisfying and simple.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (4–6 quart)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
🛒 Ingredients
Protein
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
Vegetables
- 4 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Spices
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Dairy
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Cut steak into bite-sized cubes and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces for 2–3 minutes until browned (do not cook through). Remove from heat.
Step 3: Grease the inside of the slow cooker with a little butter or nonstick spray.
Step 4: Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by half the onion and garlic.
Step 5: Add half of the seared steak, then sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, onion, garlic, steak, and another 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 7: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth and heavy cream. Pour evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
Step 8: Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and steak is fully cooked.
Step 9: Once done, remove the lid and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to set.
Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6 portions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
- Total Time: About 6 ½ hours
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave until hot. Add a little broth or cream if needed to refresh.
🥄 Variations
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Cheese Twist: Use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère instead of cheddar.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, green onions, and crumbled tortilla chips before serving.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, chuck steak or stew meat works well, though sirloin and ribeye stay more tender.
2. Do I need to sear the steak first?
It’s optional, but searing adds extra flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes, use milk and a bit more cheese, or half-and-half.
4. Can I prep this the night before?
Yes, assemble the layers, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day.
5. Do I peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional, but it creates a creamier texture.
6. Can I add more cheese?
Of course! This dish loves extra cheese.
7. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free since no flour is used.
8. Can I cook it on high the whole time?
Yes, 3–4 hours on high works, but low gives the best tender results.
9. What sides go well with this casserole?
A green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread.
10. Can I make this in the oven instead?
Yes, layer everything in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60–70 minutes.
🏁 Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty steak and potatoes. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole – Hearty, Cheesy, and Comforting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cut steak into bite-sized cubes and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Step 2: In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces for 2–3 minutes until browned (do not cook through). Remove from heat.
- Step 3: Grease the inside of the slow cooker with a little butter or nonstick spray.
- Step 4: Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by half the onion and garlic.
- Step 5: Add half of the seared steak, then sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Step 6: Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, onion, garlic, steak, and another 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Step 7: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth and heavy cream. Pour evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
- Step 8: Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and steak is fully cooked.
- Step 9: Once done, remove the lid and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to set.
- Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Yes, chuck steak or stew meat works well, though sirloin and ribeye stay more tender. 2. Do I need to sear the steak first?
It’s optional, but searing adds extra flavor. 3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes, use milk and a bit more cheese, or half-and-half. 4. Can I prep this the night before?
Yes, assemble the layers, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day. 5. Do I peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional, but it creates a creamier texture. 6. Can I add more cheese?
Of course! This dish loves extra cheese. 7. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free since no flour is used. 8. Can I cook it on high the whole time?
Yes, 3–4 hours on high works, but low gives the best tender results. 9. What sides go well with this casserole?
A green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread. 10. Can I make this in the oven instead?
Yes, layer everything in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60–70 minutes. 🏁 Conclusion This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty steak and potatoes. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.

The recipe states to slice the potatoes in thin rounds, but the photo shows the potatoes diced. Which one is it?