We all know that juggling family life and mealtime can be a bit like herding cats—chaotic, but necessary! That’s why I love this slow cooker steak and potato casserole. It’s the kind of dish that lets you toss everything in and forget about it while you tackle other things (like, you know, surviving the day). With juicy steak, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that practically cooks itself. So grab your slow cooker and get ready for a delicious dinner with minimal effort!
What You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ lbs of steak (sirloin or ribeye work best), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 large potatoes (I prefer Russet or Yukon Gold), thinly sliced
- 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated for that perfect melty texture
- 1 cup of heavy cream to make everything rich and creamy
- 1 cup of beef broth for a savory base that keeps the dish moist
- 1 medium onion, diced, for a touch of sweetness
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced, for added flavor
- 2 tablespoons of butter to sear the steak and add richness
- Smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to season the steak and potatoes to perfection
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish and an extra burst of flavor
How to Make It:
Step 1: Get the Ingredients Ready
Start by peeling and washing the potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds. Cube the steak into small pieces, and don’t forget to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This helps the steak sear better. Season the steak cubes with smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt for a nice balance of flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Steak (Optional, but Worth It!)
In a hot skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add the steak cubes and sear them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re browned. This step locks in the juices and adds extra flavor, but if you’re in a rush, you can skip it.
Step 3: Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker
Start with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, sprinkle half of the grated cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes. Follow that with the seasoned steak cubes, then scatter the diced onion and minced garlic over the steak. Top it off with another layer of sliced potatoes and the remaining cheese.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Base
In a bowl, combine the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring until it’s smooth and well mixed. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. This will help everything cook together beautifully.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours. The long cooking time ensures the steak becomes tender and the potatoes are soft. Try not to open the lid during cooking, as that can cause the heat to escape and extend the cooking time.
Step 6: Add the Final Touch of Cheese
About 30 minutes before the casserole is done, sprinkle any remaining cheddar cheese on top. Let it melt into a cheesy, golden crust.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once it’s done cooking, turn off the slow cooker and let it sit for 10 minutes. This gives it a chance to firm up a bit before you serve. For a burst of color and flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions.
Why This Recipe is a Winner:
- Minimal prep time: Once everything’s prepped, the slow cooker does all the work.
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves a cheesy, meaty, and hearty meal.
- Perfect for busy nights: You can throw everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it—until it’s time to eat!
This steak and potato casserole is the kind of dish that makes dinner feel special without the stress. It’s rich, comforting, and the best part? It makes enough for leftovers, so you’ve got a head start on tomorrow’s meal!
