Name: Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs steak (sirloin or chuck), cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cups Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); 1 cup milk or cream; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika or steak seasoning; Chopped green onions or chives for garnish (optional)

This Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors. Tender pieces of steak are slow-cooked with potatoes, seasonings, and melty cheddar cheese, all layered into one rich and satisfying dish. It’s perfect when I want a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that still tastes like something special.

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this casserole turns simple ingredients into something so comforting and filling. The slow cooker makes the steak incredibly tender, and the cheesy potatoes soak up all that flavor as they cook. It’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes, and it’s great for feeding a crowd or stocking up on leftovers for the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak (sirloin or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces)
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil or butter
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Milk or cream
Salt and pepper
Paprika or steak seasoning
Green onions or chives for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by searing the steak pieces in a skillet with olive oil or butter until browned on the outside. This step adds great flavor.
In the slow cooker, I layer the diced potatoes, chopped onions, garlic, and seasonings.
I add the seared steak on top, then pour in the milk or cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
I give everything a gentle stir to combine, cover the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the steak is juicy.
About 30 minutes before serving, I stir in sour cream if I’m using it, then top everything with the remaining cheddar cheese. I let it melt while the casserole finishes cooking.
Just before serving, I sprinkle chopped green onions or chives on top for a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people easily. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, then 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s a great option for days when I want dinner ready and waiting.

Variations

Sometimes I mix in cooked bacon or crumbled sausage for extra protein and flavor. I also like to add a layer of sliced mushrooms or bell peppers if I want more veggies. For a spicy version, I stir in a bit of hot sauce or jalapeños. And if I want to make it a bit lighter, I use reduced-fat cheese and skip the sour cream.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the casserole thickens too much, I just add a splash of milk to bring it back to its creamy texture. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prepping.

FAQs

Do I have to sear the steak first?

I highly recommend it. Searing locks in flavor and adds a deeper taste to the casserole. If I’m short on time, I skip it, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

What cut of steak works best?

I usually use sirloin or chuck roast. Sirloin is leaner and tender, while chuck gets very soft and flavorful when slow-cooked.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, I can use frozen diced potatoes or hash browns in a pinch. I add them straight to the slow cooker—no need to thaw.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I make sure my seasoning blends and any extras (like sour cream or cheese) are gluten-free, the dish naturally is.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prep all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and just toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Steak and Cheddar Potato Casserole is one of those no-fuss meals that tastes like I put in way more effort than I actually did. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—the perfect weeknight dinner or make-ahead meal. Whether I’m feeding a family or just looking for leftovers I’ll be excited to eat, this casserole always hits the mark.