This tasty Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is the perfect mix of juicy steak, creamy cheddar, and soft potatoes. It cooks low and slow for a warm, comforting meal!
Trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. I love how the flavors blend while I tackle my day. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even a busy bee like me can whip it up!
And hey, the leftovers taste amazing, too! I often save some for the next day and enjoy it with a side salad. It’s a great way to keep my meals simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the star ingredient. I like using chuck roast for its great flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could try brisket or a leaner cut like sirloin, but keep in mind it may not be as tender.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well in this casserole since they become fluffy when cooked. If you want something different, Yukon Gold potatoes can add a creamy texture, or use sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. I use yellow onions for their balance of flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, feel free to swap them out for shallots or leeks for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar cheese for its strong flavor. If you’re after a lighter option, try reduced-fat cheddar, or for a different taste, use Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier version, homemade mushroom soup or a can of cream of chicken soup works great too. You can also find dairy-free versions if needed.
How Do You Get the Beef So Tender in a Slow Cooker?
The key to tender beef lies in low and slow cooking. Ensure you cut the beef into equal, bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Always brown the meat in a skillet first before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the flavor.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker and follow the recipe steps.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours for that perfect tenderness!
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak And Cheddar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll set aside about 15 minutes for prep work, and then let your slow cooker do the magic for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Perfect for a cozy home-cooked dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by cubing the beef stew meat and peeling and dicing your potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic if you haven’t done so already. It’s all about prepping your ingredients to make cooking smoother!
2. Combine in Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, add the cubed beef stew meat, diced potatoes, and chopped onion. Make sure to spread them evenly for even cooking. This is where your delicious meal begins!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to mix everything together. This mixture will add fantastic flavor to your casserole!
4. Pour Over Ingredients:
Now, pour the soup mixture over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is well coated – this will help create a wonderful blend of flavors as it cooks.
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The key here is to let it cook until the meat is tender and the flavors meld beautifully together!
6. Add Cheese:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of your casserole. Cover again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Who doesn’t love melted cheese?
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once your casserole is ready, give it a gentle stir if you like and then garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm as a hearty main dish and enjoy every comforting bite of your Slow Cooker Steak And Cheddar Potato Casserole!
Can I Substitute the Beef Stew Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chuck roast, sirloin, or even ground beef for a different texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose, so check for tenderness to determine doneness!
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can substitute with cream of chicken soup, or make your own by mixing equal parts of sour cream and cream cheese with a bit of broth for the desired consistency. You can also use a homemade white sauce if you prefer to keep things from a can!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
You can prep this dish the night before! Just follow the steps up to adding the soup mixture, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply pop it into the slow cooker for the cooking time, ensuring you add the cheese during the last 30 minutes as usual.
